Criticism Of N.Z. Art In London

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30688, 2 March 1965, Page 13

Criticism Of N.Z. Art In London

(Special Correspondent N.Z.P.A.)

LONDON, March 1.

Although he could not have been more diplomatic, it could be discerned that Sir Thomas Macdonald, the High Commissioner, was by no means enthusiastic about declaring open the exhibition of New Zealand abstract art at the Commonwealth Institute last week.

He found himself in a position where, with little prior consultation about its character, he was invited to give his official blessing to a collection which—to judge by his remarks—he did not regard as sufficiently comprehensive or representative of New Zealand art.

pose of publicising the Commonwealth to senior schoolchildren, attracts only a small section of the adult British public. While inferring his disappointment, Sir Thomas Macdonald left the door open for future exhibitions by recalling the suggestion of Sir John Rothenstein, when director of the Tate Gallery, for one on historical lines.

Other New Zealanders who have viewed the exhibition have also been disappointed—and critical. Since it has been publicly stated that the exhibition is the first that the Queen Elizabeth II Arts Council has sponsored in Britain, it could well have consulted with the Arts Council in London.

It could have arranged a more general selection rather than an effort limited to a form of art which does not have a wide appeal. Apart from anything else, an exhibition arranged in conjunction with the Arts Council in London would attract a wider public. The Commonwealth Institute admirable as it is for the pur-