Te Mania and Richmond Plains in partnership with the Arts Council Nelson has launched New Zealand’s first grape vine sculpture exhibition.

Local artists including Michael MacMillan, David Carson and Marilyn Andrews are going to put their creative skills to great use to twist, bend, curve, braid and cajole vines into fantastic creative sculptures.

“Harvesting grapes is always an exciting time and sometimes stressful, but we always really look forward to seeing what the season’s hard work brings us,” says Lars Jensen owner of Richmond Plains.

“While we enjoy sampling our wine, the vineyard crew would say it also means pruning. A lot of it!!! So, time to have some fun we thought and create something wonderful from these canes.”

In addition to local artists creations Te Mania and Richmond Plains are going to construct the world’s largest grapevine rugby ball to celebrate the 2011 Rugby World Cup. “We would like all cellar door visitors to help us by joining in by adding more vines. Just call in and have some fun. The more people the bigger the ball!”

Lloyd Harwood of the Arts Council Nelson which is helping organise this event says “This is a wonderful initiative to bring artists and the public together in a fun creative collaboration. Sculptures will be offered for sale and will make a great feature indoors or outdoors.”

“All interested artists or groups should contact myself at the Arts Council Nelson or Lars Jensen at Richmond Plains.”

The world cup rugby ball and other sculptures will be taking place from mid June at the cellar door in McShane Road and all on display from August 19th. Till after the end of October when the World Cup finishes.

Visitors will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite sculpture and the winning artist will receive $500 worth of Te Mania and Richmond Plains wine.

ENDS

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