Peata Larkin
2026 Keynote Speaker
We’re delighted to reveal that our Keynote Speaker for the Mercury Bay Art Escape Opening Gala on Friday 5 March is Peata Larkin.
Peata Larkin (Te Arawa, Tūhourangi, Ngāti Whakaue, Ngāti Tūwharetoa) is a Tāmaki Makaurau-based multidisciplinary artist whose work draws on the ancestral symbolism of raranga, tāniko, and tukutuku to carry Indigenous knowledge forward through contemporary art. Her public works include Pekerangi, one of Australasia’s largest ceramic artworks, on the exterior of the New Zealand International Convention Centre, and her work is held in major collections in Aotearoa and internationally.
Tickets are on sale here and at Hot Waves Café
from 1 December.
Don’t be slow — this event is always a sell-out!
Jeff Lockhart
Fantastic Gala
Opening 2026
A huge thank you to Dick Frizzell, Keynote Speaker at our 2026 Mercury Bay Art Escape Opening Gala. It was a privilege to have him join us, and we’re so grateful he helped make the evening such a memorable start to the Art Escape.
One of New Zealand’s most celebrated artists, Dick has created some of our country’s most iconic works. His art captures the spirit of Aotearoa, blending landscapes, Kiwiana, Māori motifs, abstraction, and popular culture with his unmistakable style.
Sally Samins ~ Good Morning Sunshine
Showcase Exhibition
Hot Waves Cafe, Hot Water Beach.
The Showcase Exhibition is a great way to start your Open Studio visits.
See one work from each member and Group.
Call in to Hot Waves Cafe for great coffee, food, and vibes. Vote for your favourite artwork and the artist with the most public votes wins the coveted People's Choice Award sponsored by Kaizen at Go Vino, Cooks Beach.
2026 Members Exhibition
