archived
Ron O'Reilly: The Collector's Eye
06 Jun 2009 – 26 Jul 2009
Nigerian sculptures meet paintings by 1950s and 1960s New Zealand modernists. Ron O'Reilly – Christchurch City Librarian from 1951 to 1968 – is recognised as a significant champion of the arts.
Sir Toss Woollaston Two White Chairs. Oil on board. Collection of Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu, donated from the Canterbury Public Library Collection, 2001
About this Exhibition
Painted Nigerian sculptures meet artworks by Colin McCahon and walls packed with paintings by 1950s and 1960s New Zealand modernists. Ron O'Reilly – Christchurch City Librarian from 1951 to 1968 – was a passionate believer in the importance of art and supporting progressive artists.
O'Reilly instigated the public library's art loan collection and, for a modest fee, library members could borrow original works of art by artists such as Lusk, McCahon, Woollaston or Fomison.
A natural collector with his own impressive art collection, he also collected traditional African art. This exhibition celebrates O'Reilly's significance as a collector and champion of the arts.
Proudly supported by Christchurch City Libraries as it celebrates 150 years.
Exhibition Supporters
Current Exhibitions
Jae Hoon Lee Annapurna 2010. Digital photograph. Commissioned in 2010 for Springboard
Jae Hoon Lee: Annapurna
Nov 2010 – Sep 2012
Forecourt
Julia Morison Aibohphobia 2011. Acrylic paint
Julia Morison: Aibohphobia
Jun 2011 – Sep 2012
Forecourt
Wayne Youle I seem to have temporarily misplaced my sense of humour (detail) 2011. Reproduced courtesy of the artist
Wayne Youle: I seem to have temporarily misplaced my sense of humour
Ongoing