Line and Form - 20th Century Graphics

A selection of 20th Century graphics from the art collection of Peter Jarvis

The works in this exhibition have been selected from Peter Jarvis’ extensive collection of several hundred graphics. Peter started collecting New Zealand art in 1968, with an initial focus on 19th century oils and watercolours.

By the time Peter established Ferner Galleries in the early 1980’s, his focus had broadened to include graphics, a general term encompassing visual representations using a wide range of artistic techniques including photography, drawing, and printmaking in its various forms. This exhibition includes works by more than 30 of the leading NZ artists of the twentieth century: Rudolf Gopas, Lois White, Bill Hammond, Evelyn Page, Edith Collier, Trevor Lloyd, Maud Sherwood, Michael Smither and Adele Younghusband to name a few.

Included is a signature work in Peter’s collection by Rudolf Gopas titled Boats at Kaikoura 1963. This work is a monoprint that encompasses printing from a glass plate followed by overpainting, making each work unique. Gopas was a very influential teacher at Canterbury School of Fine Art (1959-1978) where he introduced expressionism to the New Zealand art scene.

A small number of works by international graphic artists have also been included to provide a world comparison – some with New Zealand connections such as Lady Mabel Annesley (British/lived Nelson NZ 1940-53) and John Buckland Wright (b. NZ but worked in Britain), whereas Margaret Preston (Australian) and Iain McNab (British) have no direct connections.

Taupō Museum is open 7 days from 10am to 4:30pm and entry is free to Taupō District residents with proof of address. Children 0 – 18 Free, Seniors 60+ and Students $3, Adults $5