Paul Hanrahan Exhibition paying dividends for Christchurch

Press Release 28th June 2011

Paul Hanrahan’s exhibition celebrating the beauty of Christchurch in its former glory is already paying dividends for the people of his hometown, with over half of the paintings from his current exhibition already sold. This is good news for the artists’ home town, who will receive all the proceeds from the sale of Paul’s watercolours.

Stirred by a series of sketches the artist did in his youth around the city, the watercolours are lively and capture the places, spaces and architecture of Christchurch, which have been forever changed in the wake of the February 22nd earthquake and subsequent aftershocks.

“These early drawings inspired me to record in watercolour the city I love, and at the same time I reminisced on hearing the crunch of autumn leaves underfoot whilst walking in Hagley Park, passing enthusiasts with their gleaming model yachts on the Victoria Lake whilst smelling the aroma of breads wafting from the Arts Centre bakery,” says Paul.

A key aspect of his work is the inclusion of people which bring his paintings energy and life. The residents of Christchurch are captured shopping at Cashel Street Mall, discovering the delights of the Arts Centre markets and visiting the cities iconic landmarks, including the Christchurch Cathedral.

Paul hopes that the paintings can revive the fond emotions and memories that he and others have for the Christchurch that was treasured by many. By achieving this, Paul will feel as though he has done something for a city whose future has been irrevocably transformed.

This wonderful tribute to Christchurch is currently showing at Jonathan Grant Gallery, 280 Parnell Rd, Parnell, until July 12th 2011.

ENDS

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