Tēnā koutou,
Ngā mihi
Spring has brought a wealth of art treats for Friends to enjoy. We are all still talking about the wonderful Friends and Foundation evening with Dame Robin White. Dame Robin gave insights into the collaborative creation of the three exquisitely beautiful tapa cloth or masi works which the Foundation is seeking to help Te Papa acquire for the national collection. You can find out more about this exciting project here.
In August we had a fascinating evening with Sean Mallon, learning about Samoan Tatau and the evolution of the tattooist’s art; we delighted in more wonderful local dealer gallery visits, including the Elizabeth Thomson exhibition at Page Blackie; and enjoyed another gorgeous lecture in our Fashion and Art series, this time looking at textiles and the influence of the flower. The third lecture, High heel heaven, on the history of the shoe, Saturday 6 October, will be a must!
In Toi Art, two new exhibitions have recently opened. You will be intrigued to see how the level four art spaces have been cleverly reconfigured. Tony Fomison: Lost in the Dark almost encloses the viewer in a world of sombre darkness, while Curious Creatures & Marvellous Monsters is all fluidity, colour, and vitality. Curious Creatures aims to excite the curiosity of children, but grown-up Friends will find it equally magical. Come and explore, and rediscover some old favourites. Not to be missed Thursday 6 September, Rebecca Rice and Matariki Williams will talk on the portrait wall, Nga tai whakarongorua | Encounters, and the fascinating stories behind the paintings.
And continuing the history theme, join us on Wednesday 19 September to mark 125 years since women won the right to vote. Bronwyn Labrum and Katie Cooper will introduce us to the newest publication from Te Papa Press, Women Now: The Legacy of Female Suffrage, and take us through the exhibition Doing It for Themselves: Women Fight for Equality. Bring along your friends to acknowledge those amazingly brave women who made their mark on our history. You can find out more here.
So, escape the wild winds of spring and join us in the magical world of art.
Nāku noa, nā
Elizabeth Kay