Inspired by his family and his faith, Christchurch artist and graphic designer Paul Rees has brought Jesus to High Street.

At his Cube Art Gallery in High Street, Paul is exhibiting a collection of 30 paintings and prints that depict aspects of the gospel story from the New Testament.

Paul picked up his brushes again during the disruptions of lockdown, culminating in him painting a series of works on the life of Jesus. “Everyone encouraged me to bring them to a wider audience through an exhibition, which was really the moment I decided to create a gallery.”

Paul’s own paintings are joined in the exhibition by a range of Old Masters and more recent works that tell the story of Jesus in more detail and variety. He approached museums and art galleries in Aotearoa and overseas and found a lot of support. From Glasgow’s Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum came an image of Salvador Dali’s Christ of St John of the Cross painting. Our own Te Papa made sure Colin McCahon is represented, with two works by the artist.

Supplementing the exhibition with local art, Paul added Kees Bruin’s photo-realistic giclées. From friends came a wood engraving print from Sam Harrison.

Paul also designed the gallery space, opting for a moody, atmospheric experience. “Most small private galleries are contemporary in style – white walls. I wanted to go more classical, a more immersive experience with dark walls and lighting focused on the art to evoke a stronger, more emotional response.”

Ian Harrop from Light Project offered some direction on lighting in the gallery to complement the viewer’s experience.

The current exhibition, Jesus On High, will run through to Easter 2023. What’s next? Paul’s not sure yet. “Our previous Masterworks collection of giclées by Rembrandt, Monet, Renoir and John Singer Sargent was our first. For the future, we are considering a botanical series, an Impressionists exhibition and maybe even a Christmas idea in 2023.

“It’s really all in the goal of bringing beautiful art to the people and visitors of Christchurch.”

Jesus on High, 153 High Street (St Asaph end).
www.cubeartgallery.co.nz