Where art meets Allpress coffee
The Warkworth hospitality scene is humming in every form, as newcomer ‘elemento’ has landed with alternative concepts to the conventional coffee shop.
Andrew of elemento, who recently moved into the area in 2022 with his family, and expecting a new arrival, set out to establish his brand in the community, which began in 2018.
The brief was to connect with the community and visitors through coffee shops which complement people in their element.
The idea of an art gallery with a coffee shop in it came about when Andrew came across 3 Alnwick Street in October 2022. “Having done some research on the history of the building and had a look inside, it instantly became apparent that the space, with its exposed trusses and architectural aspects and interior, had the bones that were perfect for an art gallery,” says Andrew.
elemento had been conceived with art at the heart of the business. A collaboration with international street artist Handbrake had been instrumental in forming both the concept and identity for the business, which has had locations in central Auckland and Mt. Ruapehu over the last five years. With art being the cornerstone of the business, and Andrew’s grandfather being a career artist in the Philippines while raising 10 children, it was only right that a space where artists could exhibit their work would be part of the journey of elemento.
“Fast forward to June 2023 and the calendar was filling up with local New Zealand contemporary artists. The coffee machine and fit-out was coming together, and Allpress coffee was ready to complement the space.”
Mandy Rodger is the first artist to exhibit her artwork through August in the elemento Coffee x Gallery. Mandy's paintings are characterised by spontaneous, sweeping energy flows. She explores colour, space and the materiality of the paint itself, creating dynamic gestures immersing the viewer in the motion of the bold brushstrokes.
The gallery will host a new artist each month, showcasing their talent, hard work and passion for their art and craft.
www.instagram.com/Elemento.CoffeeGallery | www.MandyRodger.co.nz