From fantasy and folklore to emotion, memory and personal expression, masks of every shape and style are taking centre stage at the latest exhibition by the Ōpōtiki Arts Society.

The society’s new exhibition, Masks, Moods and Memories, opened on Saturday and runs through until July 11 at the Ōpōtiki Arts Hall on King Street, inviting visitors to discover a colourful collection of imaginative works created by artists. The exhibition is free to attend.

While masks have long been used across cultures for storytelling, celebration and ceremony, the exhibition encourages artists to explore the idea in their own way, drawing on fantasy, emotion, identity and treasured memories to create pieces that reflect their individual creativity.

Founding member of the Ōpōtiki Community Council, Dot Wilson, is pleased with how the exhibition is going.

“We had a very successful opening on Saturday with a lot of new people exhibiting a variety of exhibits showcasing weavers, potters and painters.

“We have also had a number of children putting in exhibits and it’s really exciting and rewarding to see the growth in their work,” she said.

The exhibition continues the Ōpōtiki Arts Society’s tradition of presenting themed exhibitions that challenge its members creatively and provide fresh and engaging experiences for visitors throughout the year.

The theme for this exhibition came when Arts Society member Marie Cass was waiting in a doctor’s surgery and happened upon a magazine featuring a beautiful display of Korean style masks.

“I was so impressed by the pictures I thought it would be great to try and do something similar with our new pottery kiln, so I asked the receptionist if I could borrow the magazine and they let me hold on to it.

“We really can’t thank Horizon Trust and Creative NZ for their support to all our artists here for making these displays possible,” she said

The exhibition is open daily at the Ōpōtiki Arts Hall, 9 King Street, until Saturday, July 11, with free admission for all visitors.