Forty original lithographs by twenty prominent artists.

We are delighted to welcome the Muka Youth Print Exhibition back to Southland. Since its inception in 1987, the Muka Youth Print Exhibition has been touring the country almost every year, exhibiting original stone lithographs exclusively for young people.

Arguably New Zealand’s longest on-going art event, 165 artists––88 of them from New Zealand and 77 from overseas––have contributed to the project, and tens of thousands of young people have been attending and building their very own art collections.

The exhibition provides a unique opportunity for young people (aged 5-18 inclusive) to purchase original lithographic prints in an environment where adults are not allowed.

All unframed prints are $90, and the artists' names are covered during the show. This encourages children to choose work based on their appreciation of the work rather than the artist’s reputation or potential for financial gain.

Over the years most of New Zealand’s major artists have produced lithographic prints for the exhibition, including Ralph Hotere, Pat Hanly, Nigel Brown, John Reynolds, Gretchen Albrecht, and Dick Frizzell, to name a few.

Entry to the exhibition is free, any young person is welcome and there is no pressure to buy. Because no adults are allowed into the exhibition, the children select prints based on their own individual taste.

Frames will also be available to purchase at $90 each.

Especially for ages 5 - 18 years.

Co-founder and Muka director Magda Van Gils, who has been involved in the project since the beginning says, “The method of exhibition allows young people to develop a unique awareness of art that cannot be taught.

By entering the room without adults, and with an opportunity to choose, young people really engage with the works of art, on their own terms.”

Gallery Programmes Officer, Marcella Geddes, says “The exhibition leaves a legacy of children and adults who have grown up with and experienced art through the Muka Youth Prints.

Many of the children who bought prints back in the early days of the exhibition are now bringing their own children along to experience art as a new and exciting part of their world.”

TWO DAY’S ONLY - Eastern Southland Gallery, 14 Hokonui Drive, Gore

Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November 2025, 11am - 4pm

ONE DAY ONLY - Invercargill Public Library, 50 Dee Street, Invercargill

Saturday 6 December, 11am - 3pm