The Marlborough Art Society in collaboration with Welcoming Communities and Marlborough Multicultural Centre, proudly opened Welcoming Week 2025 on Friday 29 August with the vibrant exhibition My Art, My Story at the Marlborough Art Society Gallery.

More than 70 artworks filled the gallery to capacity, creating a warm, positive atmosphere where creativity, culture and connection came together. The opening evening brought over 80 people from across our community to celebrate stories of identity and belonging told through art.

Each piece carried a deep personal meaning, the sense of longing for home, the joy of a dance, the memory of a flower, or the embrace of cultural roots. Visitors had the chance to meet the artists, hear their journeys, and understand the emotions that inspired their work.

The evening began with a Karakia and Karakia Kai led by Johnny Joseph, Kaihautū at Marlborough District Council. Anne Barrer, President of the Marlborough Art Society, then welcomed everyone and introduced Mayor Nadine Taylor, who shared her always inspiring words with the audience.

This exhibition is the result of months of workshops and an eight-week course delivered by four remarkable tutors; Anastasiia Shumqo, Andy Navarro, Vasu Singh and Verena Frei, whose dedication and professionalism helped participants find their artistic voices. MMC Events Manager Marcelo González said:

“This exhibition is a powerful example of what can be achieved through collaboration. We’ve seen it already with our fitness programmes at Stadium 2000, and now we are experiencing it through art and the strong sense of belonging it creates.”

“I have the deepest admiration for the tutors and artists who contributed to this project, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to Anne and her dedicated team of volunteers at the Marlborough Art Society. From being the first to arrive and beautifully prepare the gallery, to staying until the very end to leave everything in perfect order, their commitment reflects the kind of small but meaningful efforts that make a big difference.”  González added.

The My Art, My Story exhibition is open to the public daily from Saturday 30 August to Sunday 14 September 2025, 10.30am to 4.30pm (closing early at 3.30pm on the final day).

This event marks the official start of Welcoming Week 2025 in Marlborough. To explore the full programme of activities, visit the Event Guide and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

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Gallery of Photos My Art, My Story Opening Here!