The Fairfax Archives: Portrait of an Artist
Photographer Unknown Len Lye, 1983
gelatin silver print, 160 x 110mm
The Fairfax Archives: Portrait of an Artist
Online Auction
10 - 14 December 2021
The Fairfax Archives: Portrait of an Artist is now open for bidding. This incredible collection of portraits turns the lens onto the makers, presenting an excellent opportunity to own mementos of some of the greats of New Zealand art.
Many of the nation’s leading artists are captured, including Ralph Hotere, Robin White, Colin McCahon, Robert Ellis, Fiona Pardington, Len Lye, Louise Henderson and many more.
There are images of well-dressed artists in front of their work in gallery settings. Some reveal behind the scenes studios, with artists at work. Others are more candid, capturing moments of good humour, conviviality, and personality. Webb’s Content and Research Manager, Dr. Julian McKinnon discusses a number of the photographs in this video.
A series of striking portraits of Frances Hodgkins in Sydney, Africa, and the United Kingdom present this distinguished pioneer of New Zealand painting in a captivating light. Her stylish headdresses and firm gaze are notable features throughout.
A 1944 photograph of Captain Peter McIntyre sketching amidst the rubble of Cassino, Italy is another highlight and an image for the ages. At the time, McIntyre was deployed with New Zealand forces that were at the heart of an incredibly fierce battle with German troops. The heroic effort of the Māori Battalion at Cassino is the stuff of legends – so too are McIntyre’s paintings of the battle and its aftermath.
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