Opposites Attract II 

Julia Fausett &
Brian Torrey

Seventy plus people attended a very enjoyable opening event Sunday 12th of October. With all three community space exhibitions attaining artwork sales, very auspicious start!

Julia Fausett and Brian Torrey are Morrinsville artists whose styles and mediums differ greatly. Julia’s bold acrylic paintings are abstract, gestural, and expressive, while Brian’s highly detailed airbrushed landscapes and depictions of native fauna focus on realism and precision. Despite their contrasting approaches, their work complements each other in unexpected and thoughtful ways.

Opposites Attract II  is their second joint exhibition at Morrinsville Gallery and follows what has been a busy and productive year for both artists. Each brings a new body of work that reflects individual development while continuing a dialogue between their artistic voices.

As partners in life, this exhibition is also a reflection of their shared creative journey. While their practices remain distinct, there is a sense of cohesion through the use of colour, light, and the emotional energy that underpins their work.

Brian’s airbrushed acrylic works, rendered with technical precision, depict animals and landscapes with a sense of quiet observation. Painstakingly bringing forth the subtle play of light on feathers, fur, and waves he brings the paintings to life. In addition to traditional canvases, Brian has brought paintings on reclaimed and weathered objects—in this exhibition handsaws previously old surfboards, and dive bottles—adding layers of meaning and context to each piece.

At the centre of Brian’s work, a striking painting of a bald eagle presides over the wall with calm authority. Majestic—measured and quietly powerful.

Julia’s recent paintings show a shift in tone and mood. Still grounded in movement and lush colour, this new series has taken on a joyous, almost floral quality. Julia’s work are an honest and emotional response that translates into layered, textured paintings. The marks—scratches, lines, and bold brushstrokes combined with striking colour—reveal glimpses of underpainting, offering depth and reflection. While gestural and intuitive, there is a sense of memory and place that emerges from the surfaces.

Presented again in the beautiful light and space of Whakaaturanga, this exhibition continues the conversation between their two practices. Julia’s palette echoes some of the coastal tones found in Brian’s landscapes, reinforcing subtle connections between their works.

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