24 September - 7 December

An exhibition of extraordinary quality and subject –

We are thrilled to present Boro – Timeworn Textiles of Japan, a unique and visually compelling exhibition that showcases the rich history, beauty, reverence, and ingenuity of Japanese textile traditions. This show is likely to be the most extensive collection of genuine Boro artifacts displayed in New Zealand.

Curated by Pip Steel of Carterton, the private collector behind this extraordinary body of work, the exhibition features an incredible array of hand-stitched and layered textiles.

“Boro” means “rags” or “tattered cloth” in Japanese, these works speak deeply to themes of resilience, sustainability and creativity in the face of hardship. With their rich textures, patchwork forms, and subtle colour palettes and patterning, the textiles cross boundaries between historical artifact and contemporary art.

Included in the exhibition are three powerful, large scale contemporary pieces of 'boro inspired' artwork by talented Tamaki Makaurau artist Susie Pascoe. Susie’s stunning works sit beautifully with Boro - Timeworn Textiles of Japan pieces in an emotionally moving sense as well as visually and by methodology, they gently move the show from traditional to modern perfectly.

All exhibited in our gorgeous main Art House Trust gallery.

Don’t miss this opportunity to visit and experience these powerful works—crafted with reverence, rooted in history and resonant with meaning.

Please join our newsletter via this link so you can keep up-to-date with announcements about workshops, talks and events!

Interested in pre-registering for Boro/sashiko workshops?
Contact us to express your interest—we’d love to hear from you!

Visit Us at Morrinsville Gallery!

• Weekdays (Tuesday to Friday): 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

• Weekends (Saturday & Sunday): 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

• Closed on Mondays

Special hours for group visits can be arranged by emailing director@morrinsvillegallery.org.nz 

The Morrinsville Art Gallery Charitable Trust extends its deepest gratitude to the many individuals and organisations who have helped bring this exhibition to life. From Pip Steel’s creative vision to the generous support of Susie Pascoe, Elizabeth Borrows, The Arts House Trust, Matamata-Piako District Council via the Pride of Place Grant, our dedicated volunteers (who collectively we estimate contributed around 180 hours of prep and install time), Fundraising committee, Tis The Season (Matangi), The Ribbon Rose (Auckland), Red Star Signs (signage), Morrinsville College, Morrinsville Museum,  WSA and Everybody’s Op Shop (furnishing loans and gifts)—this has been a true community effort. Their contributions have made this exhibition not only possible, but truly meaningful.

A Very Special Thank You

To the incredible team at the Matamata-Piako District Council’s Pride of Place fund—thank you for your critical and generous support toward the installation and first four weeks of our exhibition.

Your contribution made it possible for us to host this important and meaningful show, and we are deeply grateful for your belief in our vision and in the cultural life of our community.