My Backyard an Exhibition by Ruth Merriman

As the title of her exhibition, ‘My   Backyard’ suggests, The Incubator Gallery is showcasing a series of large   watercolours and canvases inspired by Ruths backyard through the perspective   of her childhood memories, holidays and travels. Looking at the concept of nostalgia, and   how as humans we look back fondly at past times and memories from childhood, where   life seemed simpler.

Ruth is a born and bred New Zealander. Being born in the late 1960’s, this   exhibition will feature iconic images from growing up in Tauranga New Zealand.    She has created a selection of   artwork that reflects her childhood memories inspired by her own childhood   photos, the many animals she has owned and their amusing antics.  Ruth considered herself a bit of a bookworm   as a child, and she had a huge imagination, which has inspired her art.

She states: “I have used my whimsical   imagination to add twists of humour to my childhood memories of growing up in   the 1970’s. My childhood consisted of   living on a quarter-acre section in town, with the vegetable garden and the   mini orchard. There was a sense of a freedom to explore your backyard, the   local parks, and suburbs.

Ruth has written and illustrated two   picture books in reference to her childhood memories. Some of these   illustrations will also be featured in the exhibition.

Opening preview Friday 2nd  August, 5:30-7:30pm. Everyone welcome. Refreshments and Licensed Bar   available.

On display in The Incubator Gallery from   3rd to the 24th August, 10am-3pm Monday to Saturday and   some Sundays.