Mike Tate at Carlton Gallery
Presented by: Katikati Open-Air Art
Mike Tate will present an exhibition of his latest work at the Carlton Gallery in June 2026.
His practice continues to evolve from earlier native timber pieces into a distinctive style that still honours a wood-inspired aesthetic, now reimagined with a contemporary twist.
A long time photographer, Mike draws on his extensive catalogue of images, selecting favourite scenes and transforming them into intricate wooden artworks. Each piece is carefully constructed-cut into multiple components, painted, and reassembled – reminiscent of a complex jigsaw puzzle. The process is both meticulous and time-intensive, often taking weeks to complete, with final result only revealed once the last piece is placed.
Known for his bolds use of colour, Mikes interpretations are often more vibrant than the original photographs, bringing a heightened sense of life and energy to each work.
Based on the Coromandel Peninsula, his art reflects a deep connection cto the region, particularly its Pohutukawa-lined coastlines, beaches, and native bush.
Mike spends much of his time exploring landscapes, often combining this with conservation work through Thames Coast Kiwi Care. His journeys across the Peninsula continue to inspire a growing collection of imagery-far more than he has time to create-each piece a thoughtful and crafted reflection of place.
