Forrester Gallery director wins national award

Forrester Gallery director Warwick Smith was presented with the Museums Aotearoa individual achievement award at a ceremony in Gisborne last Thursday night.

Museums Aotearoa chair Leslie Colsell described Mr Smith as “a beacon for the art world in the South Island and beyond – tenaciously but gently pursuing his vision for a quality art gallery in Oamaru with wholehearted commitment.”

“In the past twenty years he has created extremely creative high quality exhibitions, illuminated by his ‘legendary’ lighting skills. Those who have hosted his touring shows have gained much from his exemplary collection management skills.”

In addition to his expertise in mounting and managing exhibitions Mr Smith was acknowledged for his ability to foster the development of artists, gallery staff and volunteers.

Mr Smith said he was humbled and honoured to have been nominated for the award let alone to have won it.

“I am the figurehead at the gallery but the Forrester is what it is because of the solid support I’ve received from sector colleagues, Council and councillors, volunteers, Friends of the Forrester and a network of smaller galleries in the South Island. I’d also like to acknowledge the support of my wife Libby for her patience in what has all too often been her role as a gallery widow.”

The Museums Aotearoa selection panel also took into account Mr Smith’s input into an ambitious redevelopment plan presented by architects McCoy and Wixon in 2007-08. It has been included in Waitaki District Council’s Long Term Council Community Plan, subject to the gallery’s ability to raise external funding.

“The Forrester is at an interesting phase of evolution. Last year we celebrated our 25th anniversary and now we are looking forward to the development of the gallery,” said Mr Smith. “The building is one of the jewels of our collection.”

“I’m delighted the Council has taken on board the McCoy Wixon concept and I am very optimistic that it will be achieved one day,” he said.

Mr Smith said his two career highlights to date have been the gifting of the Parsloe collection of Colin McCahon paintings and winning the Museums Aotearoa Award last week.