McLeavey Gallery is located in Wellington Central, how does the community and neighbourhood around you inform the gallery
The Gallery is located in Cuba Street which is the bohemian heart of Wellington. We are surrounded by great restaurants, vintage shops, cafes, live music venues, other galleries and a wide mix of creative people. It’s a dynamic and exciting atmosphere. We are located between two universities so we see a lot of students and academics. This neighbourhood attracts people to the Gallery with a point of view.
Can you tell us one of the most memorable times you’ve had working as a gallerist?
Every exhibition is different and has its own organic energy, they are all memorable. However perhaps one of the most memorable, as a child I witnessed was a two-man show between Julian Dashper and John Reynolds, it was titled “Omaha Beach” and they painted huge velvet canvas with globby bright oil paint in the gallery. John must have been in his early 20s and brought a huge ghetto blaster into the gallery to listen to while they painted the show. It was so exciting, it planted a seed of how exciting the art world can be. Wonderful that all this time later we are still working with John and bringing his latest collaboration (with Karl Maughan) to the Art Fair.
What advice would you give someone looking to start their collection?
My advice is to look at a lot of work before you decide to buy, to hone your eye. Also to collect your contemporaries, people of your age and generation who share your concerns and experiences. Also, buy the best you can afford.
What are you most excited about for the Aotearoa Art Fair 2024?
I love the opportunity to see so much work from such a variety of artists all in one spot. Also for me, it’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with colleagues and friends in the art world and I always really enjoy the convivial atmosphere and the social element that goes along with the fair.
Learn more about what McLeavey Gallery is presenting at the Aotearoa Art Fair 2024 here.
Images:
Olivia McLeavey portrait, photo by Russell Kleyn.
Extra Floral #1, Extra Floral #2 and Extra Floral #3, John Reynolds & Karl Maughan, 2023, Oil & acrylic on canvas, 1400 x 1000 mm