'See What I Can See - Discovering New Zealand Photography' exhibition, Sarjeant Gallery, Whanganui - 18th June-11th September 2016

I went to the opening of this exhibition, which is based on Gregory O'Brien's recent book, 'See What I can See', mainly because it features works from a number of photographers who are represented by Photospace Gallery. These include Peter Black, Mary Macpherson, Andrew Ross, Gabrielle McKone and Lucien Rizos.

It was interesting to see the Taupo Quay space, which is functional but nothing like as good as the old Sarjeant Gallery on the hill. Having seen major exhibitions of Andrew Ross and Mary Macpherson's work in the old gallery, this space really does not compare. I hope they don't ruin the original gallery in the process of modernising and expanding to it.

The hang of the show is jaunty and attractive; and I hope it will engage younger viewers and so match the intention of Greg O'Brien's book. Sometimes I get the feeling that framed pictures on a wall are to today's children and teenagers as glass cases of stuffed birds in museums were to me when I was a kid; that is, something belonging to the previous century.

I surreptitiously snapped a few pics with the cellphone, so please pardon the poor quality. Most museums and public galleries in NZ have a 'no photography' policy. In contrast, during a recent trip to Sydney I saw people photographing merrily in the Art Gallery NSW (including the Aboriginal artworks) as well as in several private galleries. As long as flash was not used, it was fine.