Taupō Art Trail organisers Lorraine Cholmondeley-Smith (left) and Sue Thomson discuss the finer points of the King’s Birthday Weekend event in Sue’s studio. Photo: Dan Hutchinson

Taupō artists are bucking the trend when it comes to art sales and are now eyeing King’s Birthday Weekend and the increasingly popular Taupō Art Trail.

By Dan Hutchinson

It’s been 13 years since the first trail began and this year 27 talented artists will be showcasing their efforts at 17 venues from Kinloch to Waitahanui.

Taupō Art Connection member and one of the Art Trail organisers Sue Thomson said it had become well known and a highly sought-after event to attend.

“The art is generally new, so right now, the artists are working very hard to produce new and exciting opportunities, for you to buy, to study and actually take home.”

She said some of the artists had “happily joined together”.

“So when you visit one studio you might be seeing three artists.”

The popularity of the local art scene was evident at the Taupō Art Expo on Easter weekend, when 600 visitors turned up, providing a welcome boost in sales for the creative community.

“It defied all odds because the stat’s on buying and selling of art these days are not that good ... Overall, the art sales are down about 60%.”

Strong demand was coming from families that are building new homes and looking for statement pieces to adorn the walls.

Another trail organiser Lorraine Cholmondeley-Smith suggested people “fill their car” and come as a group.

“It’s more fun that way.”

Venues range from studios and shops to private homes and public halls.

Maps will soon be available on the www.taupoartconnection.co.nz website and the venues will be hard to miss with colourful signs along the way.

Last year, the trail attracted more than 150 people a day.

“It's absolutely exhausting and very, very fulfilling,” Sue says.

She says there will be all genres of art from a group of artists that are all of a very high standard.

“This is browbeating, cultural stuff that Taupō really, really needs. We have a great desire to produce work and for it to be seen. That's the point. And this is our big chance. And people love it.

“There's art for everyone. There will be something you can't resist.”

And it is not just Taupō people heading out on the trail Lorraine says, with many making their way from neighbouring provinces to enjoy great art in a stunning location.