B.

I always admired people who were talented at art, who could tell a story, or sculpt something amazing or make you think or aspire to something else. That’s maybe why I like art – it makes me learn, discover and imagine. I visit galleries in NZ and overseas because they’re representative of the culture of that place …

I jumped at the opportunity to join the Foundation in October 2014 when I heard about the plan to purchase five great works. The Gallery has fantastic vision and is in great hands right now. One of my favourite artworks in Christchurch is Martin Creed’s Work No. 2314 which tells us everything is going to be alright. I like the simple message in dazzling lights. For me it symbolises the pretence I showed, for the sake of my kids, that the earthquakes were nothing to worry about. I have my parents to thank for surrounding me with good New Zealand art and making it part of the everyday conversation – the disagreements were part of the fun.

It is so hard to choose my top artworks in Christchurch, although The Physician by Gerrit Dou is a little gem. It’s an intriguing painting full of symbolism – there is always a new story to discover as you look at it. I’ve been on the board since 2008 but have always been an avid supporter of the arts. My love affair for art probably first started as a toddler creating sand castles at Brighton Beach, making images appear with magic water painting or sticking autumn leaves on to paper to make collages!

The reopening of Christchurch Art Gallery was a tremendous milestone for the rebuilding and regeneration of Christchurch and we’re delighted to be supporting this landmark institution. The Gallery is for everyone – locals and visitors. We anticipate many of the visitors we bring to the region will include it on their itinerary. We’re proud to support art, artists, the Canterbury region and Christchurch Art Gallery, now and into the future.