Media release
22 July 2008
An Inspired Mix Of Cocktails, Art And Design Comes To Town
Bombay Sapphire’s ‘Botanical Bar’ visits Auckland and Christchurch
From 7th August in Auckland 2008 and 28th August 2008 in Christchurch, Bombay Sapphire will be showcasing the latest
evolution of their affiliation with art and design, the Bombay Sapphire “Botanical Bar”.
A collaboration project between some of New Zealand’s leading artist’s, designers and stylists, Bombay Sapphire will
bring more than a dozen pieces into a specially styled space in each city, to create a bar experience like no other.
Internationally renowned interior designer and stylist Katie Lockhart is curating the project, which includes works from
designers Simon James and David Trubridge, photographer Chris Sisarich, glass artist Stephen Bradbourne, and artists
Billy Apple and Rachel Walters.
Auckland based Eon Design Centre is also on board as a partner of the ‘Botanical Bar’. The Eon design team is developing
a range of bespoke furniture from talented, upcoming designers from around New Zealand including Candy Whistle, Nidus,
and Birchwood Design. Independent Christchurch designer Punga and Smith rounds out the project.
At the conclusion of the event the bar will be dismantled and the works auctioned by Webb’s Auction House, with proceeds
going to the Dowse Art Museum in Lower Hutt. The auction catalogue can be viewed online at www.webbs.co.nz from late
July.
Bombay Sapphire Marketing Manager, Rowan Dean is proud to be offering such an eclectic entertainment opportunity in the
two cities. “In 2006 and 2007 we held the very successful ‘Blue Room’ Art Glass exhibitions. In 2008 we’re building on
the strengths of those projects, and through the vision and passion of some very talented people, we’re putting together
what will be an amazing experience. Individually any of these artists and designers would offer an exiting exhibition,
but with pieces from all of them brought together in such a functional way, this will be a really interesting way to
view their works, and a whole lot of fun.
The Bombay Sapphire ‘Botanical Bar’ will be open to the public and serving original cocktails designed by the country’s
leading bartenders. It will be located at the corner of Commerce St and Custom St in Auckland on the 7th -15th August,
and at the Simon Fisher Gallery, 134 Victoria St, Christchurch on the 28th and 29th August 2008.
ENDS