Art in New Zealand

Radio Record, Volume II, Issue 33, 1 March 1929, Page 13

Art in New Zealand

A2&T, in its several manifestations, shows little tendency to flourish in our democratic country; which, though it has proved itself signally successful in business acumen, health of babies, tourist propaganda, and like laudable and humane achievement, possesses little bent and less enthusiasm for the things of the spirit, the altitudes of Parnassus. But in time we shall change all that, or so it is hoped. And in pursuit of that devoutly hoped for consummation, comes a greatly daring quarterly, "Art in New Zealand," of which already two numbers have been published. Here perchance is the little leaven that leaveneth the artistic lump. One views this journalistic venture, however, with optimism combined with trepidation. For, as Dr. Campbell Duncan remarks in an attractive article therein concerning Art and Artists, "Nothing can survive without encouragement"; and intelligent co-operation from the layman is essential to render successful this charming medley of colour, craftmanship and literary achievement, so provocative of interest and essentially of our own country. ‘he reproductions are excellent, including a characteristic landscape by Nugent Welch; zinnias that exemplify Miss D. K. Richmond’s sincerity and brilliance of workmanship; sunset waters of W. Menzies Gibb; Mrs. Wallwork’s pastel portrait of a dark-eyed "Patrick"; examples of pottery by Elizabeth Lissaman, with explanatory notes thereon; while Mr. Charles W. Kerry makes a very human plea for tolerance in the making or marring of music, and exposition of the need of it by the man in the street. From the 8. P. Andrew studio appear examples of camera work, ranging from lifelike portrayal of the revered Rabbi of the Capital City, to miniature of Lady Lucy Jellicoe and a lovely study of the Unapproachable Pavlova. Original and arresting is the literary matter, notable in the poetry being Mr.

C. R. Allen’s "Interrogation" and some verses of remembering love by Miss Hileen Duggan; while the art of the short story is exploited by Mr. ©. R. Marris’s vivid sketch in the modern manner-an impression of some vacillating hours etched in a few indelible strokes. Wind-swept karakas by Marcus King remain in the memory; also affectionate reminiscences of that well-beloved painter, the late "Jimmy" Nairn, by Mrs. M. BE. R. Tripe, who also has an illustration of a characteristic study of a girl. Mr. Arch. F. Nicoll contributes, in addition to a strikingly realistic portrait, a few wise observations on the influence on art of the Dutch Van der Velden; and Mr, Alan Mulgan ably dissects difficulties that hedge around the novelist who aspires to write an epic of our islands, No dullness, no perfunctory letterpress; but fresh, abiding merit and enthusiasm, backed by artistie: faith and courage. A refreshing publication, and redolent of the atmosphere of New Zealand.-R.U.R.