When Art Creates Space for Conversation
/A reflection from Suter supporter Julie Greene
Art has the power to move us, to challenge us, and to bring us together in conversation. At The Suter Art Gallery, we see this happen every day, and sometimes, those moments are beautifully captured by our visitors.
Below, we share a reflection by Julie Greene, written after she attended a recent Art Fix session. Julie’s words show how art can open up meaningful kōrero and connection, and how The Suter provides the space for those exchanges to unfold.
Visited widely by locals, New Zealanders and international visitors, The Suter offers many special opportunities for people attracted to art. One unique opportunity to gather and explore current exhibits is the Art Fix, led by art historian and longtime Suter volunteer Elizabeth Gould.
A recent exchange during the August post-Art Fix kōrero over a cuppa demonstrated clearly the important role art holds in our lives.
The Suter offered a safe and non-judgmental space for participants to share points of view on the Diane Prince exhibit. An artist of national importance, Prince's exhibit includes themes of belonging, the legacy of colonisation, political engagement, environmental issues, and asks the question of how Aotearoa moves forward in the 21st century.
The exhibit had stirred many strong feelings—a hallmark of lasting artworks. The people who came to Art Fix that day were aware of the controversy and were very interested in Prince’s works and wanted to learn more about her point of view. They were also energised to have a forum to discuss those things deeply felt but rarely spoken about in daily life.
While strolling around, thoughtfully taking in the works created by this artist of national importance, people asked questions about Prince’s history, about the historical context of her work, about the artist’s methods, and what she was sharing through her very personal artworks.
Some talked about issues they had not been able to speak about before. What was different that day? The Suter provided a supportive environment where people could ask questions. They felt heard, not judged. The Suter made the difference by offering the opportunity and the space where these open conversations can happen. The art spoke powerfully. The Suter provided an essential space to share perspectives, responses, and ideas in a place—and in a manner—that felt helpful.
“I’ve never had any place to talk about this.” “It’s a forum to share what we’re feeling.” “I’m not alone.” People exchanged phone numbers to continue the conversation. Several participants said they left The Suter feeling better than when they arrived. Not because the discussions were easy; they weren’t. Not because society’s issues were resolved; they weren’t. The value was in the unexpected connections people created by asking questions and listening deeply to others.
Talking about the art created a type of community that hadn’t existed an hour earlier.
Artists show us what is possible. The Suter, this civic space where we can explore our selves, our past, present, and future, is a treasure.
— Julie Greene
At The Suter, we’re grateful to Julie for sharing her experience and insights. Her reflection reminds us that art can be a catalyst for meaningful dialogue and understanding — and that our role as a public gallery is to hold space for that to happen.
Your ongoing support, through visiting, donating, or simply sharing what The Suter means to you, helps ensure we can continue to be a place where art inspires connection and conversation.
