Liam Gerrard, Hydriomena Rixata, 2023. Charcoal and pastel on paper, 93.5 x 154.5cm. Courtesy: the artist and Sanderson Contemporary Art, Auckland.

Sanderson are pleased to present the exhibition Unfurling, an exhibition of new works by Liam Gerrard.

Gerrard is an artist whose practice explores the fragility of existence. Known for his depictions of the hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla) in various states of blossom and decay the artist produces works in meticulous detail, in pastel and charcoal.

Over the past year Gerrard has expanded his subject matter to explore the moth; an insect which has the average lifespan of one to six months but can sometimes live for a single day. In this new exhibition, the artist will present a suite of beautifully rendered, larger than life moths, as well as hydrangea and a new subject matter – the rose.

Depending on the species, the rose lives anywhere between six and one hundred years, and cyclically blooms and withers with the seasons of spring and winter. A symbol of romance and love, beauty and courage the rose has been celebrated in art history for time immemorial.

In the case of his floral works Gerrard titles each work by the location in which the flower was discovered. Named after an area of East London the titles of the roses are Haggerston Park I & II, a location that the artist visited earlier this year.

Building on his previous explorations; Gerrard investigates the notions of the passing of time and precious moments in life.

Opening Event: Saturday 2 September, 11 – 1pm.

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