Design Showcase, a series of design exhibitions to showcase New Zealand's design talent, starts on February 13 at Staple Furniture + Design in Wellington.

The first Design Showcase is an exhibition called Native Talent, combining works from leading design company Native Agent and art from leading photographer Fiona Pardington.Design Showcase, a series of design exhibitions to showcase New Zealand's design talent, starts on February 13 at Staple Furniture + Design in Wellington.

The first Design Showcase is an exhibition called Native Talent, combining works from leading design company Native Agent and art from leading photographer Fiona Pardington.Native Agent is renowned for their craftwork on quilts, cushions and blankets reflecting New Zealand's colonial and tribal history. Symbols of early currency and trade - muskets, hei tiki and feathers are regular motifs in their work.

With Native Agent's interplay of design with art, it is fitting that their work is complemented by photography from prominent New Zealand artist, Fiona Pardington.

Using subjects in common with Native Agent, themes of culture and identity are equally strong in Pardington's work - from emblematic hei tiki to the once majestic huia - presented as silver gelatin prints that already nest in prominent public and private collections. The prints are courtesy of Fiona's Wellington gallery, Suite (www.suite.co.nz).

By name, 'Native Talent' is a fitting start to Staple's Design Showcase. The showcase series is about promoting New Zealand's design talent, including emerging designers looking for a lucky break. While showcasing established talent this time, young up-and-comers will also get their chance. We've all been in a position when we needed an opportunity, and someone believed in us and gave us a shot. Staple is optimistic that design lovers will positively respond by supporting exhibitions and New Zealand's design talent.

Originating in Gisborne, Staple Furniture + Design recently expanded into NZ's creative capital and now operates out of an old warehouse in Wellington's central city. Staple displays its own furniture and lighting range, complemented by the best of other New Zealand design. Staple also offers residential design consultancy services.

From 13 February
Staple Furniture + Design
www.staplefurniture.co.nz
Cnr Bond and Lombard Sts (adjacent to Lombard carpark building),
Wellington

Open Wednesday-Saturday or by appointment.
027 2922 726

Staple Furniture + Design

10/02/09