Nelson artist Scott Combes and his son Týr will be at the Trafalgar Centre this weekend, alongside hundreds of other artists, as the sixth annual Art Expo Nelson comes to town. Photo: Kate Russell.

Art Expo returns to Trafalgar Centre

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After three years at Saxton Stadium, Art Expo Nelson is returning home to the Trafalgar Centre this weekend.

Now in its sixth year, the annual three-day art event will showcase over 1000 artworks by more than 100 artists from all over New Zealand.

Event manager Nic Foster thinks visitors to the show will be impressed with the new-look venue.

“We were grateful to have somewhere to go while the Trafalgar Centre was closed for the earthquake strengthening, but now we’re stoked to be back.”

“The Trafalgar Centre is looking amazing and we just can’t wait until Art Expo Nelson kicks off on Friday.”

Just like previous years, Nic says they expect to see lots of people in over the weekend, having a relaxed wander, buying art, meeting the artists and just enjoying the atmosphere.

Second time round Nelson artist Scott Combes will be there, taking a break from his Tahunanui tattoo studio to sell some of his airbrushed artwork.

Scott has been a tattoo artist for more than 20 years, and starting painting ten years ago.

He has now built up a collection of around 500 paintings, not to mention painting prosthetic legs, helmets, and his car with “faces and weird stuff”.

“It’s taken a while to develop my style, but I think I’m a better artist than a tattoo artist.”

“I like painting pictures that tell a story. I don’t like to be like everyone else, although I appreciate what other artists do.”

He says the expo is a good way to showcase his work.

“There’s always a market out there,” he says.

The event has received sponsorship funding this year from the Nelson Events Marketing and Development Programme, which is funded by the Nelson City Council.

Art Expo Nelson will be held at the Trafalgar Centre from Friday 18 August – Sunday 20 August, from 10am. Entry is $5 for adults, children under 15 free.