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Celebrating Creativity: Our Annual Art Exhibition

“Let’s celebrate art and embrace it as one of the most beautiful and timeless expressions of humanity.” With these inspiring words, entertainment reporter Kate Rodger inaugurated the annual Real Living Art Exhibition, showcasing the incredible work of over 50 talented artists from our four retirement villages and beyond. Formern Newshub film reviewer Kate Rodger is not only a household name but also a passionate supporter of Real Living's Model of Care, with her father residing at Pakuranga Park.

Kate Rodger was, up until recently, Newshub's Entertainment Editor and Film Reviewer. She is pictured here wishing a happy birthday to one of our beloved residents at Pakuranga Park.

Now in its third edition, Pakuranga Park’s Art Show has become the largest and most impressive yet. Visitors can admire remarkable works across a variety of mediums, including acrylics, oils, fine needlework, patchwork quilts, woodturning, bone carving, porcelain dolls, and sculpture.

Among the many talented artists is Jess Wang, an active member of the Howick Art Group, who works in a variety of mediums, including oil, pastels, acrylic, watercolour, and pencil. Jess frequently exhibits her work across Auckland.

Jess Wang credits Tony Clarke's Fine Art School with helping her develop her skills.

The opening night was an astounding success, with a packed house enjoying live music, delicious food, and drinks. The event owes much of its success to Pakuranga Park Welfare Coordinator Chris Bull, whose dedication and passion for art shine through in every detail of the exhibition. Chris spends months liaising with artists, curating their work, and designing the layout to create a truly memorable experience.

Welfare Coordinator Chris Bull is pictured here with artist June Salt.

This year’s exhibition also features two striking abstract pieces from renowned artist Pat Basse. Despite living with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which has significantly reduced her ability to perceive depth and detail, Pat’s dream world remains vivid, colorful, and full of inspiration. She draws on her memory of colors and shapes, proving that creativity transcends physical limitations. Her work is a testament to the resilience of the artistic spirit.

Pat demonstrates how art can continue to develop despite obstacles such as sign impairment and age.

Don’t miss this incredible display of talent and creativity—join us for an unforgettable celebration of art. As usual, many pieces will be for sale, so come along and enjoy the fun!


The Art Show will be open this weekend:

  • Friday, 15th November: 10am–4pm
  • Saturday, 16th November: 10am–4pm
  • Sunday, 17th November: 10am–2pm

Location: Community Centre, Centre Court, Pakuranga Park Village
Entry: Gold coin donation (proceeds go to Auckland Dementia).

We’d love to see you over the weekend. If you need more info, call Sylvie anytime on 027 314 5767 or email sylvie.borrett@realliving.co.nz

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