City artist creates eye-catching display
BY SHIRLEY WHYTE
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Metal artist Kees Taal started tinkering with aluminum and ended up with about 400 metal fish hanging in his home.
Today, after six months of planning, the Invercargill artist is having his first exhibition of his metal work at the City Gallery, in Invercargill.
Taal has created more than 80 aluminium animals, fish and birds with some painted and others polished, making up the eye-catching exhibit.
Sherryl Taal said her 76-year-old husband and artist started experimental work with aluminium about three years ago and ended up making all sorts of bit and pieces until they had more than 400 fish and birds hanging in their home.
"About six months ago we decided to hold an exhibition – so here we are," Mrs Kees said.
The items are for sale, from $60 to $200.
Taal used to farm chickens in Wellington until he retired to Southland eight years ago. He loves the relaxed lifestyle in Southland and the inspiration for his work comes from fishing trips around Bluff and Stewart Island.
Southland reminds Taal of his Dutch homeland. He immigrated to New Zealand 50 years ago.
Being creative is in the Taal blood – in the Netherlands during the World War II his father made model boats and painted to support his family.
Some of his father's works are also on display in a museum in the Netherlands and the Dutch queen's children all had a piece of his work.
Freelance artist Gabrielle Thomas said the Taal exhibition was refreshingly different.
"I like the medium used. The artist is extremely detailed, passionate about his work and they are all unique.
"The vibrant, colourful exhibition is definitely worth a look, not only for adults, as there is a childrens' section as well," Thomas said.
The Kees Creation Exhibition opens at the City Gallery, in Don St, today at 6pm and closes March 3.
- © Fairfax NZ News
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