Long-lost library painting found

Press, 23 February 1989, Page 7

Long-lost library painting found

By ANABRIGHT HAY A long-lost painting from the Canterbury Public Library art collection has been found. A Christchurch artist, Grant Banbury, found the painting yesterday afternoon in the topfloor foyer of the old chemistry building at the Arts Centre. He noticed the 1977 abstract oil painting by Catherine Houghton Duncan, “Blues,” hanging on the foyer wall. Banbury said he thought he recognised the painting from a chart of missing paintings on display at the C.S.A. to accompany the exhibition of “Library Treasures,” on show at the gallery. The painting was found to have been issued at the library in November, 1982.

Banbury was with the Arts Centre director, Mr Geoffrey Ellis, when he saw the painting. He took the picture to the C.S.A. to tell them about his find.

The archives librarian at the Canterbury Public Library, Ms Rosemary O’Neil, who was on duty at the gallery yesterday afteroon, said the find was wonderful.

The picture was an Important work in the library collection. She did not know who had last borrowed it.

The Cannterbury Public Library has a large collection of original New Zealand art. Until a few years ago the public was able to borrow originals.

More than 40 works which had been lent had not been returned. An amnesty has been offered to get the pictures back.

Ms O’Neil said yesterday’s find showed the pictures were out there. “They are an important part of Canterbury’s heritage,” she said.

“Blues” will be incorporated back in the library collection but Ms O’Neil said the painting was not likely to be included in the C.S.A. Exhibition of 53 “Library Treasures.”