Christchurch: An artists' tribute by Denis Robinson, foreword by Mayor Bob Parker

Art consultant and author, Denis Robinson, curatesa poignant collection of paintings depicting pre-quake Christchurch in newbook, to mark the anniversary of Feb 22^nd 2011 earthquake.

There have of course already been quite a few titles about Christchurch published since the two major earthquakes but I have to say they have all been impressive and inspiring in their own way. This one is poignant and quite beautiful.

Rather than focus on tragic ‘before and after’ images, Denis’ idea wasto invite Cantabrian artists, past and present – or those who had spentsignificant time in the city – to contribute their beautiful images andpositive thoughts for a book that embodied the city as it was; “I hope thatthis book will help to preserve the past for future generations to appreciateand admire,” says Denis.

 Many of the artists returned to oldsketchbooks to discover drawings still waiting to be painted, sourcing newworks especially for inclusion in this new book, to sit alongside their earliercompleted works of the city.

As Denis selected the images from these 19 contributors, he aimed tohave a representation from as many sectors of the city as possible, as well asa distinct variety of styles and techniques, each in their own way describingthe artists’ relationship to Christchurch. Each artist’s thoughts as they explain their ensuingworks reveal their lesser-known local haunts and passion for their city,visually and lyrically cataloguing the landmarks, buildings and beauty spots –as well as the memories – for the reader.

In the book’s forward, Mayor Bob Parker writes, “Reading‘Christchurch: An artists’ tribute’ made me feel like a traveller returning tomy hometown after long years abroad. It has been easy to forget during thishectic year, but this book vividly reminds us that Christchurch can be a cityof wonderful tranquillity; that the seasons are distinct and rhythmic.Christchurch has always been able to inspire wonderful art. Our founders andcitizens have always had a strong civic sense that has been expressed in acommitment to beautiful buildings and spaces. The loss of these buildings haswounded us all the more, making this book an invaluable record of our city’splaces.

About the compiler:  

DenisRobinson has worked withcreative people throughout his career as a designer, art director and gallerymanager and has eight bestselling books about New Zealand artists to his name.He lives on the Hibiscus Coast, north of Auckland and operates his own art anddesign consultancy.

Publication date: 22 Feb 2012

RRP: $49.99

Extent: 112 pages

Format: Paperback with flaps

Publisher: New Holland