Judy Millar artwork commissioned for Auckland Art Gallery

Friday 20 May 2016

New Judy Millar artwork commissioned for Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki

New Zealand artist Judy Millar will create an ambitious site-specific installation for Auckland Art Gallery in early 2017.

The new commission was confirmed last night at the first annual appeal event for the Auckland Art Gallery Foundation, where more than $100,000 was raised.

Auckland Art Gallery Director Rhana Devenport says proceeds will allow the Gallery to commission a dynamic new artwork by Millar, a leading Auckland and Berlin based artist, for the Gallery’s south atrium.

‘We’re thrilled about this new commission. Visitors will love it, it’s going to transform the space.’

Devenport says funds raised through the Foundation’s ongoing efforts will further support the work of the Gallery.

‘Donations will contribute to building a strong legacy for future generations by supporting areas such as exhibitions, acquisitions, research, conservation and public engagement,’ she says.

The appeal event, a Dada-inspired dinner titled The Holy Palate, was art directed by Millar with cuisine by chef Peter Gordon. This year’s dinner marked the relaunch of the Auckland Art Gallery Foundation, a charitable trust, established to support the Gallery though the growth of an endowment fund.

Chair of the Foundation Andrew Smith says Auckland Art Gallery has been built on a history of generous giving, dating back to the 1880s.

‘The Foundation wishes to continue that tradition, knowing that the more support it can give to the Gallery, the more wonderful art experiences the Gallery can provide for the people of, and visitors to, Auckland,’ he says.

‘Philanthropic giving to the visual arts enables more people to experience the beauty and intellectual challenge provided by an artwork or an art exhibition and to enrich their lives by doing so.’

Millar says she is pleased to be inspiring philanthropic giving for the ongoing support of the Gallery’s future.

‘The Foundation is a fantastic charity helping to create opportunities for Auckland Art Gallery to carry on its work for generations to come,’ she says.

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