THE SOCIETY OF ARTS EXHIBITION.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXVI, Issue 9370, 21 May 1889, Page 3

THE SOCIETY OF ARTS EXHIBITION.

TO THE KDITOR. Sir,—Now that the Exhibition is over, and a little free discussion is not likely to affect it prejudicially, it may not be out of place to make a few remarks. Taken as a whole the turn-out of works has been veryfar inferior, both in numbers and quality, as compared with the results in previous years. So much has this been the case that more than one of those who were entrusted with the hanging of the pictures expressed doubts as to whether there would be any Exhibition at all; and, in consequence, the works had to be spread about to cover as much space as possible, and very much inferior work had to be hung, which in former years would have been relegated to a heap in the lumber-room. This may have been due to a combination of circumstances, such as hard times, clique management, and the fact that nearly forty artists, who were formerly regular contributors, have, through death, absence, disaffection, or whatever cause, been unrepresented on the wails of the Exhibition. It speaks well for the numerical strength of Auckland's art lovers, that the 1500 feet of wall space at the Choral Hall could be covered at all, under such adverse circumstances as these ; and if part of the deficit was due to dissatisfaction with the management, a rigorous inquiry should be set on foot, and every measure taken to secure a more satisfactory result next year. A little active canvassing on the part of members, and a few efforts at conciliating such as may fancy they have a grievance, would go far towards mending matters : and it would be a pity to see the Society of Arts lose its popularity with artists for lack of any efforts that can be used.—l am, &c, Onlooker. Auckland, May 20, ISB9.