Te Papa is deeply saddened by the death yesterday of Ralph Hotere – one of the country’s greatest artists. Our thoughts go out to his family, his friends, and the arts community.
Ralph once commented that ‘There are few things I can say about my work that are better than saying nothing’. Keeping this in mind, to remember this remarkable artist and his incredible contribution to New Zealand art, here is a selection of his works in Te Papa’s collection.
If you are in Wellington we invite you to come into Te Papa and view one of Hotere’s last great works, ‘VOID’ (2006) made with long-time collaborator Bill Culbert.
From tomorrow morning, the following work will also be on public display in tribute:
- Megan Tamati-Quennell (Curator, Contemporary Maori and Indigenous Art) and Sarah Farrar (Curator, Contemporary Art)
Sarah, I have a stunning work by CHRIS BOOTH ( dear friend of Ralph Hotere’s ) entitled O3 in my gallery. http://www.kaanzamaan.co.nz/current-exhibition/ for more details.
Please contact me if you are interested in this work, which is available to purchase. I have exhibited it in Kerikeri over the summer, and it will remain hung until early March.
Kindest regards,
Julia
021 1634478
Yesterday I flew south to Te Papa for the sole purpose of seeing the works of Hotere. I was called by one painting in particular, Black Painting XV but visited all his other works there. I had an almost spiritual experience while watching The Void. I’ve written about it in a letter to the Listener a few minutes ago and perhaps they may publish it. If not I have a copy and can send it to you if you wish.
But my biggest disappointment while at the museum was missing out on seeing Black Phoenix. It was not on display at the time of my visit. Is there any way I could request to be informed of its next time of exhibition?