New exhibition examines New Zealand’s changing energy story

A new exhibition opening at NPDC’s Govett-Brewster Art Gallery | Len Lye Centre on 8 August brings Taranaki, New Zealand and international artists together to examine the economic and social legacies of the energy sector’s presence in the region.

Through video, photography, sculpture and installations, Economies of Deferral examines the past four decades of the industry, exploring what happens when development slows, industries retreat and communities are left to carry the consequences.

Central to the exhibition are works from the archive of Urenui-born video maker Darcy Lange, whose video Lack of hope: Co-op a new future captures the voices of unemployed workers and community groups in Taranaki, Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland and Te Tairāwhiti during major economic upheaval in the late 1980s.

His work sits alongside images by renowned photographer John Miller (Ngāi Tawake ki te Tuawhenua, Te Uri Taniwha, Ngāti Rēhia and Te Whiu, Ngāpuhi), who has spent decades recording social change, labour struggles and community resilience throughout Aotearoa New Zealand.

The exhibition also features historical and new works by Fiona Clark, one of the country’s most widely celebrated photographers. Clark’s work reflects on the environmental and social impacts of extractive industries around her home in the north Taranaki community of Tikorangi.

Matthew Galloway’s new installation revisits the legacy of Think Big-era infrastructure through a collaboration with former Minister of Energy, the late Sir Bill Birch and models from the now-closed Methanex visitor centre.

Ngahuia Harrison’s (Ngātiwai) new work explores the relationship between industry, the environment and mana whenua around Whangārei Harbour, while internationally acclaimed Singapore-based artist Ho Rui An looks at Singapore’s oil economy, its “garden city” identity and its role within global energy networks. The exhibition marks the first major presentation of his work in New Zealand.

Together, the artists connect local experiences in Taranaki and across New Zealand to wider international networks of energy, trade and power, asking what remains when periods of growth and development come to an end.

Opening day will feature artist talks and a specially adapted performance lecture by Ho Rui An, offering audiences insights into the ideas, research and lived experiences behind the exhibition.

Economies of Deferral runs until 15 November 2026.

Opening day artist talks: 8 August 2026

• 11am - 12pm: Fiona Clark and John Miller
• 2pm - 3pm: Ngahuia Harrison and Matthew Galloway
• 4.30pm - 5.30pm: Ho Rui An - Performance lecture.  Due to limited space, booking required due to limited space. See the gallery’s website (govettbrewster.com for details or book here.

At a glance

• The Gallery has earned major architectural and design awards, recognised globally for bold, innovative and inclusive exhibition programming.
• Owned and operated by NPDC, the Gallery welcomed over 75,130 visitors last year, with 16 per cent coming from outside the district.
• It also operates an art and design store, an arthouse cinema, and offers vibrant education and public programmes.

Caption: Fiona Clark, Drifting at Mangaotuku Road, South Taranaki, 28 March 2026. Courtesy of the artist and Lett Thomas, Auckland.