An intriguing mother - daughter art exhibition opened at the MADD Gallery in Moto’otua on Sunday evening.

The work of the two artists provides a vivid contrast and their wide range of preferences in the use of materials and subject matter. 

Featuring the very different styles of Raema von Reiche and her daughter Luana Milroy, the collection includes colour and black and white works presented as triptychs, prints, painted ceramic dishes, large and small acrylic paintings and postcards.

Raema’s interest in art stems from art classes she attended in the 1970’s at Chanel College where she was taught by Father George. 

Many of Raema’s pieces reflect her love of nature but she also has an interest in lines and shapes. A close up look at one of her triptychs reveals that part of it, is actually a subtle collage assemblage.

“I enjoy uniformity and tend to draw a lot of lines and pyramids. I also enjoy collage and including different textures and materials.”

On the other hand, her daughter Luana says her favourite media are ink and watercolours. 

“I enjoy the fine detail that ink can provide while watercolours give a subtle wash of colour in the background, not overpowering the detail of the drawing.”

One of Luana’s most arresting pieces is a black and white drawing of an ostrich head – a gift for her late grandmother Ainslie von Reiche whose love of animals was well known to all her family and friends. Other artworks reflect Luana’s first fascination with drawing hands.

“In my last year of high school and throughout my university studies, drawing hands was my favourite subject.”

Gallery owner and former art tutor of both women, Papali’i Momoe Malietoa von Reiche, said that the exhibition will be open for two weeks and all works are for sale.