Contemporary New Zealand Art & Design Objects
Discover original artworks, prints and sculptural objects from emerging and established artists from across Aotearoa.
One Year of Ashe
This August, I’m proud to celebrate one year of Ashe Gallery on High Street.
It’s been a wonderful year filled with so many new and familiar faces, incredible artists, beautiful exhibitions, creative workshops and plenty of learning along the way. There have certainly been ups and downs, but I’m incredibly grateful to be here, taking on this challenge and continuing to build a gallery centred around Art, Artists & Community.
To mark the occasion, we’re celebrating with In Good Company, a group exhibition bringing together more than 20 contemporary New Zealand artists.
Thank you for your support and for being part of the Ashe journey.
Featured Artworks
Discover the latest artworks and objects to our collection — handpicked pieces that bring new energy to your space.
Bronze Sculpture by Jay Lloyd (Koa Bronze)
Waiheke Island
Hanging Cast Bronze Sculpture
Dimensions: 510×510mm
Cable: approx. 2100mm
Showing now at Ashe as part of ‘In Good Company’ a special group exhibition celebrating One Year of Ashe
17-31 August 2026
The essence of nature around us can be expressed with simple clean lines and movement. I try to capture this essence, to evoke memories, without the complication of unnecessary detail.
Bronze has for centuries been revered for its unparalleled qualities by sculptors. I take pride in the hand craft nature of what I do and have been on this journey for more than 30 years. I do a variety of work from jewellery to sculpture and my work is exhibited throughout New Zealand and is held in private collections in New Zealand, America, Europe and Asia
I qualified as an industrial designer the 1980’s but I’m fortunate that my work has allowed me to follow a different path.
Collect with Confidence
Personalised interest-free payment plans are available on selected artworks.
Original Artwork by Candy Clarke
Whakatū, Nelson
Candy Clarke’s Key Position explores the idea of jockeying for position - whether in life, work or play - with a playful nod to the form of a jockey on horseback.
Medium: Acrylic paint. Painted in reverse on 3mm perspex sheet
Dimensions: 600×600mm
Showing now at Ashe as part of ‘In Good Company’ a special group exhibition celebrating One Year of Ashe
17-31 August 2026
Originally from Kerikeri and now based in Nelson, Candy Clarke has developed a practice that is as recognisable as it is playful. Her signature technique - painting in reverse on Perspex - began as an accident more than twenty years ago and has since become the foundation of her distinctive style.
By working backwards on clear acrylic sheets, Candy creates layers of colour and imagery that seem to glow from within. Her work shifts easily between abstraction and storytelling, often weaving in fragments of language - lines from songs, snippets of conversation, or familiar phrases - that bring humour, rhythm, and reflection to each piece.
Candy’s paintings explore the quirks and poetry of everyday life with a lightness of touch and an instinct for composition that makes her work both contemporary and deeply human.
A graduate of the Dunedin School of Art and NMIT in Nelson, Candy Clarke’s art is held in collections throughout Aotearoa and beyond.
Collect with Confidence
Personalised interest-free payment plans are available on selected artworks.
Limited Edition Print by Michele Bryant
Oil relief print on hand painted canvas. Unframed.
Edition: Limited Edition of 100
Dimensions: 650×1240mm
Year: 2026
As a New Zealand contemporary artist, my work explores the relationship between identity, belonging, and how location influences personal decision-making. Growing up in rural New Zealand, the landscapes - forests, horses, and expansive skies - shaped my understanding of how our connection to place impacts who we are.
A key theme in my art is flight, symbolized by aeroplane and glider motifs, representing both literal and metaphorical journeys. These images of departure and movement reflect the decision-making process inherent in travel and relocation - the tension between staying grounded and seeking new horizons.
Recurring symbols like trees and horses evoke the pull of home and nature, reflecting the complexity of leaving and returning. I also incorporate text and numbers, personal markers that capture moments of departure, return, and the choices that shape them, adding layers of memory to each piece.
Working across a variety of media including printmaking, wood, and resin, I create tactile, emotional works that invite reflection on identity, place, and the transformative decisions we make. My hand printed fine art speaks to universal themes of home, freedom, and personal growth, encouraging viewers to consider how place shapes our paths in life.
Collect with Confidence
Personalised interest-free payment plans are available on selected artworks.
Original Painting by Bettina Neu
Kāpiti Coast, Wellington
Series: Tapestries of Life - Layered memories in pigment
Gouache on canvased board on salvaged wood
330×330mm
Year: 2026
I am fascinated by how time leaves visible traces and how our experiences become woven into who we are. Every joy, loss, and turning point adds another layer.
These reflections inspired my new series, “Tapestries of Life”. Through layered colour, texture, and form, I explore the emotional landscapes we all carry, where tension and harmony coexist, much like life itself.
Rather than telling a single story, I invite each viewer to discover their own and the memories these colours might evoke.
Note: Colours on screen are indicative - there is far more depth in person.
Showing now at Ashe as part of ‘In Good Company’ a special group exhibition celebrating One Year of Ashe
17-31 August 2026
My outlook and approach to life have been shaped by a rich mix of artistic and creative traditions. Architecture, photography, art, and design run through my family - shaping how I see the world for as long as I can remember. I have been endlessly curious since childhood, drawn to and captivated by the interplay of colour, shape, form, and texture across both 2D and 3D, which has guided my creative path.
My background in design and my formal art education have given me a multidisciplinary way of thinking that’s deeply embedded in my creative practice. My work transforms observations of life and nature into abstract compositions.
I often work on several pieces from the same series at once, letting colours and forms evolve together and strengthen the story that connects them. I want my work to resonate on both a visual and emotional level—provoking a smile, a sense of wonder, or a feeling of warmth.
Original Painting by Richard Macdonald
Ōtautahi, Christchurch
Original Oil Painting on Canvas in White Frame
Dimensions: 410x610mm
Showing now at Ashe as part of ‘In Good Company’ a special group exhibition celebrating One Year of Ashe
17-31 August 2026
This piece has come full circle from a painted concept in 2012 that I subsequently built into a static model. Remember your mum with her trusty Edmonds Cook Book, and all the associated tastes, smells and sounds? In its melding of two familiar cultural icons, this faux appliance explores visual links to our childhood, while its form also celebrates the mid-century design ethos.
Christchurch based Richard usually works in oils on either canvas or panel, and from purely representational work, he has begun to increasingly incorporate symbolism, with many pieces operating on multiple levels; harbouring a narrative, evoking memories, or even just having a bit of fun.
A background working as an art school technician, and having studied decorative paint finishes and graphic design are all ingredients which have, in one way or another, found their way into his art. And he also, as some artists are inclined, likes to have a break from the easel now and then with some three dimensional works. In his case, an ongoing series of reimagining buzzy bees nibbling at the fringes of the designer toy movement. Examples of these have been selected as finalists in both the 2018 and 2020 Miles Art Awards at the Tauranga Art Gallery. Richard’s paintings have also found their way into homes in Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Original Painting by Cam Munroe
Kāpiti Coast, Wellington
Medium: Acrylic & Mixed Media on Canvas
Frame: Black Box Frame
Year: 2026
Dimensions: 325x325mm
Showing now at Ashe as part of ‘In Good Company’ a special group exhibition celebrating One Year of Ashe
17-31 August 2026
Cam Munroe is a contemporary artist based in Kāpiti, New Zealand, whose richly layered mixed media paintings explore themes of time, memory and human presence. Using acrylic, ink and oil, she builds and erodes her compositions through a process of layering, scraping back and etching into the surface. Inspired by ancient landscapes, prehistoric sites and symbolic markings, her abstract works evoke forms that feel both historic and strangely familiar.
Munroe works slowly and intuitively, allowing each painting to develop over time. Through techniques such as impasto, wire brushing and sanding, she reveals textured surfaces that suggest traces of memory and place. Her motifs often appear like contemporary hieroglyphs, inviting viewers to interpret the quiet space between light and shadow, presence and absence, and the seen and the felt.
Original Stoneware Sculpture by Aimée McLeod
Te Whanganui-a-tara Wellington
Coil built out of groggy stoneware, once her general shape was finished, I refined her with a hacksaw blade until she was smooth. When dry, she was bisque fired to 1000°. Then glazed with a copper-based glaze and fired in reduction to 1300° in a gas kiln.
Dimensions: 610x320x200mm
Much maligned, “bird women” appear in myths and folktales in many cultures.
Often seen as portraying evil, contrasting stories however show her in protective roles or associate her with music and love.
Though the Furies in Greek mythology had bird wings rather than a bird head, this is my slant. My interpretation is that the macho world feels threatened by mentally powerful women and therefore see her as ugly or evil.
Showing now at Ashe as part of ‘In Good Company’ a special group exhibition celebrating One Year of Ashe
17-31 August 2026
Original Artwork by Cakkie Lou
Geraldine, South Canterbury
Mixed Media on Canvas: 2 layers of Swiss voile fabric, inks, acrylic paint, pastels & fabric paint
Dimensions: 450x610mm
Showing now at Ashe as part of ‘In Good Company’ a special group exhibition celebrating One Year of Ashe
17-31 August 2026
My art is strongly shaped by this connection to wild places and the freedom and emotion it inspires within me. I am never as strong or as free or as deeply human as when I am fossicking and painting pictures in and of the natural world. I believe this freedom and the powerful energy of life force both within and without permeates my work. My landscape paintings are always metaphorical in concept, highlighting both the resilience and grace in life.
My main medium is oil paint due to the richness of colour and being able to work with layers, building them up and scraping them back to achieve a symbolical rawness. I apply paint in a quick energetic, expressive manner, with bold gestural marks letting the work unfold organically.
I am keenly aware of the loss of man’s connectedness to the Creator and Creation in our world. This is often seen in our disregard for the natural environment. I use landscape elements and occasionally allegorical iconography to showcase this struggle and to highlight humanities need for wild places.
I have been inspired by artists such as William Turner, Anslem Kiefer and Euan Macleod who use landscape to symbolise man’s quest for the spiritual and our place in the greater cosmos.
Collect with Confidence
Personalised interest-free payment plans are available on selected artworks.
It starts with a vision.
Locally owned and operated, Ashe is a Contemporary New Zealand Art Gallery in the heart of Ōtautahi Christchurch. Collaborating with artists and makers from around the country.
It’s not your traditional art gallery.
Read more about our founder Ashleigh and what makes her tick!
Art Collections
Discover a curated collection of contemporary New Zealand art, including original paintings, limited edition fine art prints, sculpture and ceramic objects by emerging and established artists. Explore unique artworks and handcrafted pieces created across Aotearoa.
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Handcrafted ceramics made with New Zealand clay
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A curated collection of original screenprints, monoprints, open edition, limited edition and giclee prints.
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A diverse collection of original paintings. An exploration of different mediums, materials, and subject matter from emerging and established New Zealand artists.
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Original artworks, limited and open edition sculptures.
Home Collections
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A curated collection of our favourite New Zealand art & design books.
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A curated collection of home design objects plus hand poured candles from Ōtautahi & Wellington.
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A curated collection of textile wall art. Plus a handcrafted range of interior design cushions and table runners.
Discover contemporary New Zealand homeware by local makers and designers - including books, furniture, home fragrance and textiles - all thoughtfully crafted to elevate your space and celebrate New Zealand design.
A Curated Gift Guide
Discover a curated collection of Contemporary New Zealand gift ideas to meet every budget. Gift thoughtful Art & Design Objects you know they will love. Can't choose? How about a Gift Voucher.
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The gift of art you know they will love. Both physical in-store gift certificates and online gift vouchers are available.
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Discover a curated collection of Contemporary New Zealand gift ideas to meet every budget. Gift thoughtful Art & Design Objects you know they will love.
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Discover a curated collection of Contemporary New Zealand gift ideas to meet every budget. Gift thoughtful Art & Design Objects you know they will love.
Upcoming Events
There's always something happening at Ashe. From hands-on creative workshops to contemporary exhibitions and artist-led conversations, our events are designed to bring people together through art, creativity and community.
In Good Company Exhibition
12–30 August
Discover In Good Company, a group exhibition celebrating the work of more than 20 contemporary New Zealand artists. Explore a diverse collection of original artworks and celebrate Ashe's first year of art, artists and community.
Boobie Mug Club
Saturday 5 September
Join Christchurch ceramicist Megan Hope of Fluid Pottery at Ashe Gallery for a playful, beginner-friendly pottery workshop. Learn to hand-build and paint your own one-of-a-kind Boobie Mug - no experience needed!
Collect with Confidence
Flexible Payment Options
Collecting original artwork is often a considered and deeply personal decision. At Ashe Gallery, we understand that the right artwork doesn't always arrive at the right moment financially.
To support collectors in acquiring the works they love, we offer personalised, interest-free payment plans on eligible artworks. This service is designed to make collecting more accessible while continuing to respect the value of the artwork and the practice of the artists we represent.
Ashe Journal
Explore the latest stories from Ashleigh, featuring artist interviews, studio visits, art collecting advice and tips for styling contemporary art in your home. Discover the people, inspiration and ideas behind today’s New Zealand artists.
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Featured in Home of Architecture and Design Guide, Ashe Gallery shares its philosophy on creating meaningful spaces through art and design. Discover how colour consultations, material selections, spatial planning, and in-home art consultations help Christchurch homeowners create interiors that feel cohesive, personal, and connected to contemporary New Zealand art.
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Go behind the scenes of a Canterbury House of the Year 2026 finalist and discover how thoughtful interior design shaped the project from concept to completion. From colour consultation and material selections to spatial planning, kitchen design support, and bespoke architectural details, explore how Ashe Interior Design collaborated with Summit Construction to create a home designed for comfort, entertaining, and everyday living.
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At Ashe, art is about more than what's hanging on the walls. It's about creating connection, supporting local artists, and building a welcoming creative community in Christchurch. Discover the philosophy behind the gallery, why art belongs in everyday life, and how meaningful conversations, relationships, and shared experiences help shape a thriving artistic culture.
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What goes into curating a gallery collection? More than most people realise. From light and scale to contrast, storytelling, and the placement of each work, thoughtful curation shapes how we experience art. Go behind the scenes at Ashe to discover how a Christchurch art gallery supports local artists, helps collectors buy New Zealand art, and creates exhibitions that inspire meaningful art collections and beautiful homes.
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