Dick Frizzell
2026 Keynote Speaker
We’re delighted to reveal that our Keynote Speaker for the Mercury Bay Art Escape Opening Gala on Friday 6 March is none other than Dick Frizzell.
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.
Dick currently has an exhibition of his latest landscapes, ‘The Weight of the World’ on now at Gow Langsford Gallery, Auckland — showing until 25 October.
Tickets will be available online and at Hot Waves Café in December.
Don’t be slow — this event is always a sell out!
Jeff Lockhart
Fantastic Gala Opening 2025
Huge gratitude to our guest speaker at the gala opening, Jeff Lockhart!
We had a fantastic opening night for the Showcase Exhibition and Open Studios 2025! Despite a little much-needed rain, the vibe was great, with 160 people joining the festivities, fun auction, art sales, and plenty of creative energy.
An inspiring talk from our guest speaker Jeff Lockhart who has spent the last 40 years weaving meaningful motifs and symbols into his paintings and prints, telling powerful stories through art.
Thanks to all who attended and Hot Waves Cafe for hosting us.
Also thanks to Jeff for donating two of his Pasifika prints for our auction.
Artists in Residence
Hot Waves Cafe, Hot Water Beach.
To add to the art experience during the 2 weeks of Art Escape, there will be Artists in Residence at Hot Waves Café.
The Artists in Residence has proven to be a popular meeting place for art lovers to discuss their work and inspiration.
Join your friends for brunch or lunch, chat to the artists while they work, and consider joining the Art Escape 2026.
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.
