Form Gallery exists to showcase and retail the work of New Zealand contemporary object artists.
Form Gallery was established in 1993 by Koji Miyazaki in Christchurch's Cathedral Square, New Zealand. During the 10 years in this location locals and tourists enjoyed the unique wares the gallery had to offer and would return regularly to see new pieces. Beautiful hand-made objects in glass and ceramic, sculptural work and fine artistic jewellery could all be found in one place.
Form moved to the Christchurch Art Gallery in 2003, where it remained until the Christchurch earthquakes of 2011. Sadly, most of the artworks were destroyed in the earthquakes and the building itself underwent a dramatic change as it was converted into the Civil Defence headquarters. Limited relocation options were available due to red-zoning and destruction, artist studio and exhibition spaces became almost non-existent. In order to continue to give artists a place to exhibit, Koji opened up his home in Cashmere to support artists and the art community, Form Gallery operated from there until 2012.
Form Gallery has now celebrated 30 years in Christchurch and can be found on what is affectionately known as "Form Corner" in the Christchurch suburb of Sydenham, just outside of the central city square. It has been a fast-growing suburb in the art scene since the earthquakes, many artists and art-related businesses have found a home there and Form Gallery is proud to be located at its front gate on Colombo Street.
After 30 years of directing Form Gallery, Koji Miyazaki has handed ownership over to Christchurch local, Sarah Roberts. He will continue to make his jewellery and supply to galleries throughout New Zealand. Sarah is a great supporter of the arts being an enthusiastic collector, both personally and as a member of an art group. She is committed to advocating for the incredible talent in our local arts, and is very much looking forward to this next chapter in Form Gallery’s journey and to continuing Koji’s legacy.
Alongside the retail function, Form Gallery plays an important role in presenting the work of emerging and established object artists in the form of both solo and group exhibitions. Our monthly exhibition schedule is structured to include shows that seek to present new and innovative pieces as well as shows of a more accessible nature. Regular changes to the exhibition space provide a fresh feel to each visit, while the stability of regular stock throughout the gallery and long-term representation of artists allow for individuals to follow the works of their favourite artists and discover new items of interest.
Ryan Dewsbury
Gallery Manager
Ryan, born in Christchurch, has been a member of the Form team sinze 2017. He is now a practising jeweller with a useful background in architecture, CAD, picture framing and design. Ryan built the current Form website, runs the social media, and does all of the gallery's photography.