QT Queenstown has unveiled a new exhibition in Gallery 6, welcoming the dynamic and imaginative works of Joel Hart, who is relishing a six-month residency in the lakeside luxury hotel.

An exhibition that never closes, Gallery 6 is a 12-meter-long gallery space on level six of QT Queenstown, showcasing New Zealand artists and their works among QT's eclectic and designer surrounds. Unfurling Chaos of Calm, the exhibition with the Christchurch-based artist is a display of 12 new pieces with a narrative that blends abstract wonders and urban elegance.  

Hart has gained prominence for both his studio and mural works, and has been featured as a guest judge on The Block NZ. His style is contemporary and urban with his signature body of work featuring faces layered with industrial and commercial techniques. Combining elements of stencil and screen printing, Hart's graphic works often reveal themes of beauty, mortality and decay, all filtered through a sophisticated use of technique, colour and balance. 

“Many of the new pieces in this collection feel to me like they've been existing in a dream state, and the fictional characters are manifesting themselves into abstract form to tell a story through the canvas,” Hart says of the exhibition.

“I'm incredibly excited to share my latest works with hotel guests and the local community. Queenstown is a place I've always loved spending time in over the years and the QT brand aligns perfectly with my style of work. After several recent group shows, I'm looking forward to seeing the pieces have a moment of their own in Gallery 6,” says Hart.

Formerly trained in graphic design, Hart left a world of corporate commercial design over a decade ago to pursue more artistic avenues. Inspired by urban and street art, his works soon attracted attention that led to gallery exhibitions. This showcase will see works using a mix of mediums, from canvas and plywood to mixed metals, with spray paint, acrylic and ink.

“Art isn't just decoration; it's a dialogue, a way to connect and inspire. Gallery 6 is our love letter to creativity, a showcase of the unexpected, and a way we can support the incredible talent of artists like Joel Hart. We're thrilled to welcome Joel into this space and seeing him transform the blank canvas of our hallways in his own way,” says Jeremy Black, General Manager, QT Queenstown.

Chaos of Calm will be exhibiting in Gallery 6 until October 2024. The exhibition is open to both hotel guests and the public to explore, with all artworks available to purchase.

Come lose yourself in the chaotic world of Joel Hart at Gallery 6, QT Queenstown.