The renowned Auckland Art Gallery is counted amongst the finest art galleries in New Zealand. Established in the 19th century it was heralded as the earliest permanent gallery in the nation. Even today it remains the most extensive such institution in the country, boasting a vast collection of more than 15,000 artworks.
As one might expect the gallery specialises in native New Zealand artworks, with comprehensive selections of historical, contemporary and modern artistic creations from the islands. You will also find the works of Pacific Island and Maori artists in addition to noteworthy international artworks. The latter includes paintings, prints and sculptures from as far back as the 11th century to modern times.
The building in which the gallery is housed is a noteworthy feature in itself. This building was conceived by noteworthy Australian architects who designed the structure in the French Chateau manner. Even today the building remains a much admired and distinctive edifice.
The vast collection of the Auckland Art Gallery was acquired in the course of many years, with the donations of many noteworthy art lovers. In the early years of the gallery its exhibits focused on the artworks of old masters from Europe as public tastes favoured this kind of art. As the gallery developed and tastes changed the local public became more interested in art produced by home-grown artists. Accordingly the institution has acquired the works of many notable local artists such as Marti Friedlander, Gretchen Albrecht, Alfred O’Keeffe, C. F. Goldie, Frances Hodgkins and others. Interestingly some artworks were gifted to the institution by their creators themselves.
Amongst the highlights of the establishment’s collections is a set of paintings of the Maoris by Gottfried Lindauer. Modern British artists are also represented in the collection with prominent names such as Christopher Wood, Phelan Gibb, Alfred Wallis and R. O. Dunlop featured in the exhibits. Over the years modern and contemporary art has tended to receive increasing attention by this groundbreaking gallery. The gallery’s well-balanced displays will draw the interest of any art lover.
Visitors to the city seeking a convenient Auckland hotel will find an attractive rest in the Copthorne Hotel Auckland Harbour City. This fine hotel Auckland CBD provides comfortable accommodation and courteous hospitality.
Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.
