15 Mar Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction Announces Glen Colechin as Feature Artist for 2026
Monday 16th March
Sculpture is returning to the Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction as an eye-catching feature of the 2026 event. Organisers have today announced acclaimed Napier sculptor Glen Colechin as its 2026 Feature Artist, marking the first time since 2018 that a sculptural artwork will go under the hammer at the iconic fundraiser for Cranford Hospice.
Each year, the event celebrates the very best of Hawke’s Bay creativity, pairing exceptional wine lots, donated by the region’s leading winemakers, with a one-of-a-kind artwork created exclusively for the auction. For 2026, that signature piece will be a bespoke sculpture by Colechin, an artist widely recognised for his refined craftsmanship, bold material choices, and unmistakable sense of form.
With a background in engineering and product design, Colechin’s practice blends technical precision with expressive sculptural flair. Working with recycled materials, native timber off-cuts, stone, clay, copper and brass, he creates elegant works that weave together sustainability, storytelling, and striking visual impact. His pieces have been exhibited nationally and internationally and are held in private collections around the world.
Colechin’s has a long artistic connection to Cranford Hospice. He has previously supported their work through his participation in the Wilderflower Sculpture Exhibition, helping raise funds for palliative care and reinforcing his commitment to using art as a force for good.
The finished artwork will be officially unveiled at a special Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction event in July, offering guests a first look ahead of the live auction on Saturday 12th September.
General Manager Sam Kershaw says the selection of Colechin has already generated a buzz behind the scenes.
“We’re so excited to welcome Glen as our 2026 Feature Artist. It’s been a long time since we’ve showcased a sculpture – 2018 feels like forever ago – and Glen’s piece is going to stop people in their tracks. His creativity, his craft, and the way he works with materials – it just fits the magic of this event perfectly” said Kershaw.
Colechin says he didn’t hesitate when approached to create this year’s feature artwork.
“I’m genuinely thrilled to be involved. Supporting Cranford Hospice through my work feels incredibly meaningful, and I love the way this event brings Hawke’s Bay together and shows to the world what we do best. It’s a joy to create something special for an event like this, and to know that it will support a cause so important to our community.”
Every dollar raised at the Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction is donated to Cranford Hospice, helping deliver palliative care services at no cost to patients, families, and whānau throughout the region.