Established in 1888, the Auckland Art Gallery has grown to over 14,000 pieces of work and is thus the country's pre-eminent art institution.
The gallery centres on historic, modern and contemporary New Zealand art with many outstanding pieces of work by Pacific Island and Maori Artists. The highlight is the McCahon room which is dedicated to the work of Colin McCahon, arguably the county's best known artist. Willed at his bequest to the gallery, it contains over 230 examples of his work. The gallery also owns 53 pieces of stunningly realistic portraiture from Charles F. Goldie, an early 20th century artist. Rounding out 'the big three' are 90 artworks from Frances Hodgkins mostly known for freely painted works and being one of the leading lights of the modernism movement.
Gottfried Lindauer portraits also provide a record of the Maori tradition of Moko (tattoos), clothing, ornaments and weapons in use at the time. To make the sense of the gallery, it is recommended to join a free 45 minute tour given by the gallery docents. They will bring the pieces to 'life' explaining their historical context and other techniques used.
There is a vast collection of European painting, sculpture and print collections. The work extends from 1376 to the present day. Film is represented in the gallery as well with regular screenings of historical footage and documentaries that are in their possession.
As with all galleries, there is a café and a gift shop on the premises. The Auckland Art Gallery is very kid friendly. Every Sunday they hold a Kids Club where children are encouraged to display their artistic tendencies.
Corner of Wellesley and Lorne Streets, Auckland.
09 307 7700.
