PROVISION FOR THE ARTS

Taranaki Daily News, 16 October 1934, Page 6

PROVISION FOR THE ARTS

GALLERY AT NEW LIBRARY BOROUGH COUNCIL APPROACHED. OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE A START. ARTS AND CRAFTS SOCIETY PLAN. A strong representation that provision should be made in the new library at New Plymouth for an art gallery was made to the Borough Council last night by members of the North Taranaki Arts and Crafts. Society. After discussion at the council table, in which most councillors expressed themselves sympathetic with the proposal, the questions of provision of a suitable room and the . additional cost involved, if any, were referred to the finance committee for report. The deputation comprised Messrs. H. M. Bacon, W. C. Weston, A. M. Purser, F. Coleman and J. Wood. Mr. Bacon emphasised the necessity of some .convenience for the display of works of art at New Plymouth and suggested that a small beginning might easily be a nucleus of a collection of which the town might ultimately be proud. If provision were made for adequate display in permanent quarters many people might be willing to lend their possessions of artistic merit or bequeath them to the gallery. “Such a gallery,” he said, "would be ~a valuable addition to the town in a cultural sense and might serve as an additional attraction to visitors. Indeed it is a matter of reproach that there has not been provision made for the fine arts previously in this town.” Mr. Bacon also pointed out that the project should not interfere' with the frontage of the proposed building. A south light was eminently suitable for the display of pictures provided the lighting facilities themselves were adequate. Mr. Weston said he too was of the opinion that something should be done to give a start in the matter, however little. In time New Plymouth might even possess a gallery like that of Wanganui. It was not expected that very much could be done at the beginning, but it had been felt the matter should be brought to the notice of the council. From small beginnings something might ultimately result that would be of immense value to the town. Mr. Purser said the present time provided a wonderful opportunity for a step to be made. The future might well be grateful for any start made now. No great Expenditure was expected, but no one wished residents of the future to fed the opportunity of making a start had been missed. .... When the deputation had retired tne council briefly discussed the proposal. Cr. P. E. Stainton said he thought the idea was one well worthy of consideration. Visitors to Wanganui were undoubtedly impressed with the excellent gallery there. The Mayor, Mr. E. R. C. Gilmour, suggested something might be done with the building recently owned by Mr. Swanson. It was generally agreed that any provision made should not be too meagre if it were to be of any future value.