This exhibition is now closed

Ron O'Reilly: The Collector's Eye

6 June –
26 July 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.

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.

 

Curator:
Ken Hall

Exhibition number: 830A

Related

Exhibition
Brought to Light: A New View of the Collection

Brought to Light: A New View of the Collection

February 2010 – February 2011

Our upstairs collection galleries have undergone an exciting and dynamic redesign – the first full rehang of the collection since Christchurch Art Gallery opened in its new building in 2003.

Sir Toss Woollaston Two White Chairs. Oil on board. Collection of Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū, donated from the Canterbury Public Library Collection, 2001