Original napkin art goes under the hammer

Media Release
October 31, 2008
For Immediate Release

Original napkin art from the Robert Harris Inspiration Collection
goes under the hammer

Tomorrow New Zealanders have a once in a life time opportunity to bid for original works of art created on the humble paper napkin by well renowned and up and coming Kiwi artists including Martin Poppelwell, Dean Tercel, Hayley King, Toni McKinnon and Mary-Louise Browne.

Twenty-eight pieces of original art will be auctioned on November 1, at Art + Object in Newton, Auckland with the proceeds going to the Robert Harris Inspiration Scholarship.

Ten Kiwi artists were commissioned by Robert Harris to transform the humble paper napkin into pieces of art as part of an inspirational project that took artwork to the streets of Auckland and Wellington to inspire passers-by on their coffee break and daily commute.

Each artist had a completely unique take on working with napkins; the results ranging from beautiful and delicate 3-D butterflies from Origami artist, Jonathan Baxter to the stunning translucent stenciling of Kiwi flora and fauna by Hayley King.

Robert Harris Group Brand Manager, Justine Powell says, “The public response to the art-work has been amazing so far and we are confident that many people will want to own one of these unique works of art. The popularity of the works was shown when someone went as far as stealing one of the Hayley King pieces from the public display in Wellington. Fortunately it was later recovered by police and will be included in the auction.”

She adds, “We’re excited about the auction, as it is the final chapter in this particular inspirational project. The proceeds from sales of the artwork will go to the Robert Harris Inspiration scholarship. This is a new initiative set up to support aspiring new artists and part of Robert Harris’ ongoing commitment to help provide inspiration to New Zealanders.”

Art + Object, Managing Director, Hamish Coney says “There are some amazing works of art in this exhibition and art lovers will be able to bid for one-of-a-kind Poppelwell and Browne pieces to add to their collection. There is a wide range of artwork in terms of style, so there will be something to suit every taste and the large scale of the pieces makes the event more unique.”

The auction will be held on Saturday November 1st at Art + Object in Newton, Auckland with a viewing session from 11am – 3pm and the live auction at 4pm.

ENDS.

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