Puke Ariki studies McLean’s process

Press Release

Puke Ariki studies McLean’s process

Taranaki artist, John McLean’s exhibition The Farmer’s Wife and The Farmer opens at Puke Ariki on 21st August. McLean’s distinctive style and characters will adorn the walls of the museum till 14 November.

The exhibit is comprised of two series of paintings. Firstly, The Farmer’s Wife, and its sequel, The Farmer. “This is the first time the two series of paintings will be shown together”, says Gerard Beckingsale, Puke Ariki exhibition manager. “And as a museum exhibition, it gives people the chance to explore how the artist’s creative process works; to ask why certain methods are chosen.”

McLean’s work lends itself to these purposes perfectly. His paintings are rich in motifs and symbols. They are open to many interpretations and ages; the luminous colours and vibrant scenes appealing to children as well as adults.

With a singular and intriguing process, his paintings start as splatters, from which characters are formed. Through the process and the painting they morph and grow: Each painting a milestone on their journey.

A wide range of activities are planned for the exhibit at Puke Ariki. Along with footage of McLean painting and talking about his ideas, there will be Artist Talks for the general public, and a panel of commentators including renowned art critic, Warwick Brown.

McLean’s narrative and imagery stems from his interest in philosophy. His characters represent aspects of the mind. A tale of emancipation and growth; The Farmer’s Wife is the story of a woman who slowly sheds her domiciled position. The Farmer depicts what happened to both the Farmer and his Wife after her departure.

Originally from Tauranga, McLean attended Tauranga Boys’ College where he was taught by one of New Zealand’s earliest Surrealist artists, Edward Bullmore. McLean now works full time as an artist from his home in remote Mimi, Taranaki.

The Farmer’s Wife (2009) and The Farmer (2010) were first curated by Penelope Jackson of the Tauranga Art Gallery. The Farmer’s Wife and the Farmer is toured by Toi Tauranga, the Tauranga Art Gallery.

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