Quirky Fox is proud to present “Bubblegum Dystopia“, a brand new group show and their first exhibition for 2026. Starting from Wednesday 11 February, visitors to the gallery will be in for a real treat that is both sour and sweet as ‘Bubblegum Dystopia’ explores 10 unique artistic universes that captures playful sweetness juxtaposed with darker realities and truths.
Left to right: Veks Van Hillik, Andrea du Plessis, Jason Fastier
“Bubblegum Dystopia“
Exhibition Dates: 11 February – 18 March 2026
Quirky Fox
162 High Street, Hawera, New Zealand 4610
For more information on the exhibition including viewing and purchasing online please visit Quirky Fox’s website or email them at hello@quirkyfox.co.nz
About Quirky Fox Gallery
When things got a bit messy in 2012, the owner of Quirky Fox, Vicki, decided to take a risk, quit her job and open her own business. Sick of seeing the same thing in every shop, Quirky Fox set out to showcase something a little bit different. Starting with a mixture of independent artists and commercially produced items, Vicki found working with independent artists more meaningful, rewarding and challenging.
With this in mind, Quirky Fox made the transition from design store to gallery. Showcasing both established and emerging talents, Quirky Fox invites both New Zealand and international artists to be part of its carefully curated range; all international artists are exclusive to the gallery within New Zealand, while New Zealand artists are exclusive to the gallery within the Taranaki region. Quirky Fox aims to provide a home for artists working in new contemporary and representational styles and introduce their works New Zealand and an international audience.
In 2019, Quirky Fox started to offer custom framing to complement the gallery. While taking customer preferences into consideration, the gallery aims to frame in a way that moves away from boring, white, decor-friendly frames towards pieces that enhance the artwork and continue to tell the artist’s story.
In late 2024, Quirky Fox purchased a building which it converted into a custom gallery space. The building was renovated over a two month period, before re-opening in 2025. This space has allowed the gallery to further hone its unique curated style, with a seperate gallery for exhibitions.
Each year the gallery donates to an environmental or mental health charity through its anniversary exhibition. As Quirky Fox continues to evolve and grow, we hope you will join us and our artists on our journey.
Bubblegum Dystopia
“Bubblegum Dystopia” is a term that references an outwardly bright and colourful world overlaying a darker reality.
A world where everything seems shiny, new and exciting but something is off; something darker lays beneath the surface.
“Neon colours, retro-futuristic motifs, and playful imagery are juxtaposed with themes of decay and disillusionment” – Professor Oli Mould.
It could be argued that this is a fictional world, or the one we are currently living in.
Featured Artists: Merlijn van de Sande, Space Lobster (Olga Vyshnyvetska), House of Wonders (Caroline Dewison), Michelle Molinari, Jason Fastier, Andre Du Plessis, Veks Van Hillik, Glenn Gela, Michael Kennedy (Malangeo), Breeyn, Hajnalka Mayor, Ryan Harris and Andy Taylor
Left to right: Merlijn van de Sande (first two images), Ryan Harris, Breeyn Rogelstad, Hajnalka Mayor, Space Lobster (Olga Vyshnyvetska)
