But back in 1972 a national transport strike meant that an exhibition of Japanese prints was stuck in Wellington. A formal opening had been arranged, with the Mayor and the Japanese Consul in attendance, and the caterers were standing by. The solution? Just find some other Japanese prints, from the Gallery's own collection and borrowed from the public library, and stick them on the walls instead!

Whether the distinguished guests noticed the subterfuge is not recorded, but a few hours after they had gone, the crates arrived and the real show was quickly hung. And received rave reviews for its subtlety and sophistication from reviewers Gordon Brown, Barry Cleavin and Michael Thomas.

Read all the reviews here. Follow the link to All Images.