HUNGARIAN CRAFTS

Press, Volume XCVII, Issue 28766, 11 December 1958, Page 9

HUNGARIAN CRAFTS

Mayor Opens Exhibition

“We know that the Hungarian people ,in New Zealand can bring something of their skills, culture and traditions to our country," said the Mayor of Christchurch (Mr G. Manning) when he officially opened an exhibition and Christmas fair by Hungarian craftsmen ahd artists. Mr Manning said that with only two years of local residence behind them, many of the Hungarian refugees—or by preference future New Zealanders—had already become a part of the

community. In Hungary, some of them were artists, professional men and women and many were skilled tradesmen. All of them brought to this young country some knowledge or ability, he said.

“It is not easy tor them to forget the past and start afresh, and it is not always easy for us to accept the untried which is why our Hungarian friends have got together this fine exhibition displaying locally-made arts and crafts of their members,” he said. In the exhibition which includes tables, lamps, paintings, leatherwork, embroidery, and many souvenirs are seven oil paintings by a 16-year-old schoolgirl, Miss A. M. Szigethy, which attracted much attention. An attractive variety of children's toys is the work of Mrs L. Varhidy. The exhibition will remain open till December 20.