Extended opening hours for Michael Parekowhai installation

CCC MEDIA RELEASE Date: Tuesday 24 July

2012
Extended opening hours for Michael Parekowhai installation

Christchurch Art Gallery’s presentation of internationally-renowned New Zealand artist Michael Parekowhai’s On First Looking into Chapman’s Homer has proved so popular amongst Christchurch residents that its opening hours will now be extended.

This remarkable exhibition will now open until 8pm on Friday 27, Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 July, allowing more time for visitors to enjoy the music.

On First Looking into Chapman’s Homer is a work of art in two parts: outside, on a vacant lot on Madras Street, two bronze grand pianos each support a life-sized bronze bull and take their place against a drastically-altered cityscape. Meanwhile, upstairs in the Christchurch Art Gallery’s offsite space, the spectacular carved Steinway piano, He Korero Purakau mo Te Awanui o Te Motu: Story of a New Zealand river is played.

Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu Director Jenny Harper says the exhibition has been extremely popular, attracting more than 8000 visitors since its opening at the end of June.

“This is a must-see presentation of a truly world-class work of art. It’s hard to envisage a more striking or dramatic setting for the work, and it seems unlikely that it will ever been seen in such a remarkable or accessible manner again. This really is as good as it gets and I would urge anyone with an interest in art or music to make sure they see it.”

On First Looking into Chapman’s Homer was first exhibited as New Zealand’s entry in the Venice Biennale, and subsequently toured to the renowned Musée du quai Branly in Paris. It will be open until Sunday 29 July 2012. Entry is free.

For more information please visit www.christchurchartgallery.org.nz.

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