As the Gallery Evolved, So Too Did Its Reputation
Artbay’s first gallery opened in the Mountaineer building, with a design inspired by New York galleries, featuring whitewashed brick and bespoke hanging walls. The next move brought Artbay to the waterfront, where an extensive redevelopment transformed the Masonic Lodge into the boutique art space it is today.
Artbay Gallery became home to an eclectic collection of New Zealand and international contemporary art by award-winning artists. Its welcoming atmosphere created a place for people to be inspired, to connect and to be moved by art.
“Art does change your life, and makes your house a home,” says founder Pauline Bianchi.
“It’s been a joy and a privilege to walk alongside many of our artists for over 20 years, witnessing their evolution, nurturing friendships and sharing in the quiet magic of creating something lasting together.”
Over the years, Artbay expanded its reach through successful temporary galleries in Auckland and Sydney, while continuing to introduce new artists, mediums and experiences to its Queenstown collections.
Lightworx: A Chapter in Our Story
The concept for Lightworx emerged during the first COVID lockdown, inspired by a desire to bring something fresh, innovative and uplifting to the art world.
With a focus on fine art powered by light, Lightworx showcased leading artists including Sir Robert Jahnke, Max Patté and many more. From its home in Queenstown and through pop-up galleries in Auckland and Sydney, it connected collectors with contemporary art from New Zealand and around the world.
While Lightworx no longer has a dedicated gallery space, its story continues within Artbay Gallery. Many of the artists it represented remain part of our collections, with their works showcased across our waterfront galleries alongside an ever-evolving selection of contemporary art.
VIRUT Gallery and Group Exhibition Space
Originally created to honour one of Artbay’s most celebrated international artists, Virut, this gallery has evolved to bring together a dedicated presentation of his work and a changing programme of group exhibitions.
One half showcases Virut’s distinctive collage portraits, created by hand from thousands of tiny magazine clippings. From afar, the portraits appear almost photographic; up close, they reveal vivid mosaics rich with colour, texture and emotion.
With an international following, Virut creates contemporary portraiture that reaches across languages and cultures, inviting a deeply personal connection with each work.
The other half is home to our group exhibition space, presenting a curated selection of contemporary art by Artbay artists, with a changing selection of new works throughout the year. Together, these spaces offer visitors the opportunity to explore a variety of artistic styles, mediums and perspectives.
A Continuing Story
Today, Artbay Gallery Group brings together Artbay Gallery and the VIRUT Gallery and Group Exhibition Space on Queenstown’s waterfront.
For over two decades, we’ve celebrated bold beginnings and proud milestones, nurtured lasting partnerships and collaborated with major institutions.
At the heart of it all are our artists, the soul of our story. Their dedication and creativity have shaped both our spaces and our identity. Alongside them are our passionate gallery team and loyal collectors, many of whom have been with us from the beginning.
Together, they have made Artbay a community, a place where locals and visitors can discover something inspiring and build lasting connections through art.
As our story continues, we look back with gratitude, take pride in the present and look forward to sharing what comes next.