B.

Hello, my name is...(#2)

Behind the scenes

It's time to meet another of our wonderful visitor hosts. Here are Andrew Shepherd's answers to my ten questions:

Andrew engaging with visitors at ArtBox. Pictured in the foreground is Helen Calder's Yellow, blue, red and black (installation view) 2013. Enamel paint, rubber cords. Reproduced courtesy of the artist

Andrew engaging with visitors at ArtBox. Pictured in the foreground is Helen Calder's Yellow, blue, red and black (installation view) 2013. Enamel paint, rubber cords. Reproduced courtesy of the artist

How long have you worked at the Gallery? I originally started at the Gallery in 2007, as a casual Visitor Host. After a short spell away (as a pattern maker for MACPAC), I've been back with the Gallery as a permanent full-time member of staff since 2009.

What is the best thing about your job? Learning about art: from colleagues and from our visitors.

Apart from art galleries, what else interests you? Contemporary dance is a major interest - I am a member of Christchurch's over-forties dance company Rebound, and teach a regular class as part of the After 3 adult education programme at Hagley Community College.

What's your favourite colour? Green.

Historical, 20th Century or Contemporary? I can't wait for the day when we have the gallery building open and we no longer have to choose.

What exhibition or project have you enjoyed hosting the most during our transitional Outer Spaces programme? On first looking into Chapman's Homer (Michael Parekowhai): the bulls causing nose to tail accidents on Madras Street and the joyful music on the carved red Steinway upstairs at NG.

Have you been involved in any other CAG projects while the Gallery has been closed for repairs? Numerous: most recently, helping to guide school groups through the Burster Flipper exhibition.

What is your favourite CAG collection work? So many, and my favourites change with my mood / focus / influences. Today, I'll go with Te Waka Taniwha (Shona Firman): an old favourite that was on display when I first started at the gallery.

What is a frequently asked question by visitors? When do we get our Gallery back? I love that we [Christchurch residents] all have such a potent sense of ownership. And I know I'm not the only one who would wave a magic wand if I had one.

Is there an art destination or work that's on your bucket list? Again, so many! When I win Lotto, I'll start in Florence and go from there...

Michael Parekowhai On First Looking Into Chapman's Homer (installation view) 2011. Bronze, stainless steel. Courtesy of the artist and Michael Lett, Auckland

Michael Parekowhai On First Looking Into Chapman's Homer (installation view) 2011. Bronze, stainless steel. Courtesy of the artist and Michael Lett, Auckland