Art Paradise

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 676, 30 May 1929, Page 16

Art Paradise

Vice-Regal Praise for New Zealand Scenery EXHIBITION OPENED “New Zealand should be a paradise for artists,” said his Excellency the Governor-General, Sir Charles Fergusson, at the opening of the 48th annual exhibition of the Auckland Society of Arts, at the Kitchener Street Gallery last evening. THE Governor-General, accompanied by Lady Alice Fergusson, was received by Dr. E. B. Gunson, president of the society. After declaring the exhibition open, his Excellency, in a light, attractive speech, said it had been long impressed upon him that he knew nothing about art. He was wedded to sincerity in art, yet it was often held against him when he objected to things being placed in positions differing from those in which they weer put by nature or the hands of man. “It is trying,” he said, “being taken round and exhibition by experts, and having to play the part of a strong, silent man, who knows a great deal and says nothing. Eventually one has to say, “I like that,” and then comes a strong silence. His Excellency then mentioned the hints that Punch had. given for the guidance of Philistines. These were concerned mainly with the way in which to use professional terms such as “middle distance,” “values,” “atmosphere,” “rhythm,” and “brushwork.” Rules were given also for conduct when in front of various types of picture. For instance, in front of a futuristic picture, the spectator should never say, “Is it?” or “Am I?” Sir Charles, in serious vein, congratulated the society on the exhibition, which he had been told was very good. “New Zealand should be a paradise for artists,” he said, “for no country should inspire its artists more by the beauty of its scenery.