New Plymouth to host most energetic Len Lye exhibition this summer

The largest exhibition of Len Lye’s work ever presented in New Plymouth opens at NPDC’s Govett-Brewster Art Gallery | Len Lye Centre on 5 December 2026.

Filling both the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and Len Lye Centre, Len Lye: Energies brings together kinetic sculptures, films, paintings, drawings and rarely seen archival material spanning six decades of Lye’s career.

A centrepiece of the show is the return of Trilogy (a flip and two twisters) (1977), Lye’s exhilarating fusion of choreographed stainless steel, electricity and sound. Len Lye’s largest and loudest kinetic artwork, Trilogy combines immense scale with dramatic tension, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Trilogy will be presented alongside 11 other kinetic ‘tangible motion’ sculptures, the most ever collectively displayed at the Gallery. Drawn from the Len Lye Foundation collection and archive, Energies showcases the breadth of Lye’s work at scale and his lifelong fascination with movement, rhythm and energy.

Curator Anna Briers said:

“Len Lye was an effervescent and original thinker, whose cross-disciplinary approach reveals an interest in energy in all its forms, from the microbial metabolisms of early life on Earth to the quantum entanglements of particles in space, and the ocean of electromagnetic waves surrounding us.”

Gallery Director Megan Dunn says the exhibition is expected to be a major drawcard for the region this summer.

“This is an important opportunity to experience some of Lye’s most iconic works together in one place.  We expect Energies to attract visitors from around New Zealand and overseas, while giving local audiences a spectacular summer experience right here in New Plymouth. Visitors and locals remember Lye’s kinetic works, especially the cacophonous Trilogy! Don’t miss out.”

Len Lye: Energies is proudly supported by the Len Lye Foundation and Govett-Brewster Foundation, with exhibition partners Craigs Investment Partners and Clelands Construction Limited.

“I’m interested in the business of energy, and getting a feeling of zizz.” - Len Lye

At a glance:

• Len Lye: Energies will be on display from 5 December 2026 until 26 April 2027, featuring over 100 works by the late artist.
• New Plymouth District residents receive free entry to the Gallery. Standard admission fees apply for visitors, with concessions available for seniors, students and other eligible groups.
• The Len Lye Centre opened in July 2015 and is a joint initiative by NPDC, Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and the Len Lye Foundation.
• The gallery also operates an art and design store, an arthouse cinema, and offers vibrant education and public programmes.
• Some of Len Lye’s works include sound, movement and sudden actions so those with sensory or accessibility questions should direct these to gallery staff.

Caption:
Govett-Brewster Art Gallery | Len Lye Centre. Image Sam Hartnett; Len Lye, Trilogy (A flip and two twisters), 1977 (2026 reconstruction), stainless steel, electric motors, dimensions variable, duration 10 minutes, Len Lye Foundation Collection, Govett-Brewster Art Gallery.