Gareth Barlow
The Return of Giants by Gareth Barlow $6,500 framed Status: Available
Nurturing From The Bosom Of The Earth by Gareth Barlow $6,500 framed Status: Sold
I was born and grew up in the Hutt Valley of Wellington. My art reflects the love of a culture I’ve been surrounded by my entire life. Through family, friends, neighbours, and teachers, I was encouraged to follow a journey of discovery and connection, a journey now expressed through my work.
I’ve been a practicing carver for many years and I’m one of New Zealand’s most recognisable and respected bone carvers. Through my learnings about all elements related to whakairo, I use myths and philosophies around the art, and the Māori culture in general, to help influence and shape my entire art practice. It demonstrates my own unique path, although at the same time recognising how we all connect together. Everyone. And everything.
As an artist, I’ve been warmly accepted by Māori, who have ultimately become my biggest advocates. Even though my paintings reflect a Pākehā exploring the concepts and traditions of a beautiful, unique culture, my work resonates with people globally.
I have been a finalist in a number of high-profile art awards in New Zealand and Australia, including the prestigious Wallace Art Awards in 2020. As well as earning a merit and the People’s Choice award for the 2021 Parkin Drawing Prize, New Zealand’s most highly regarded drawing award. I have also been a finalist in the last three Adam Portraiture Prizes in 2018, 2019 and 2022, securing runner-up in 2018 and third place for 2020 in the People’s Choice award.
My carvings have been on public display at various museums in New Zealand, including Te Papa, Auckland, and Rotorua. Today, most of my carvings are commissioned privately by Māori for family taonga, a process that I believe I am truly blessed to be part of. My paintings and carvings can be found in private collections in New Zealand, Australia, Europe, and North America.