Exotic wall hangings on display

2 February 2016

See everything from native birds to African animals depicted in batik at Taupo Museum with a new exhibition this month.

The collection of original batik wall hangings by Ann Hay features a range of subjects that also include New Zealand mountain, lake and rural scenes.

Hay lives in Taumaranui but was born in England and grew up in Kenya. She spent 25 years in Africa and said she enjoyed drawing animals in the game parks using oils and pencils. An art gallery suggested she take up the art of batik as it was an easy art form for tourists to roll up and take home, so Hay taught herself the craft and over the years has created her own technique.

Exhibitions officer Kerence Stephen said the works were intricate and detailed, and beautifully demonstrated high quality batik work. The variety of themes in Ann's batik wall hangings mean there is something for everyone, she said.

She celebrates her 80th year this year and has exhibited her work in several African countries, the United Kingdom, the United States, Paris, Australia and New Zealand.

The exhibition opens on February 6 and runs until March 14. An opening morning tea will be held on Saturday at 11am which the public is welcome to attend Hay will be demonstrating her batik techniques. The museum is open seven days from 10am to 4.30pm. Entry is free to children and Taupo District residents with proof of address.