This exhibition, the Gallery’s first single-collector exhibition, pays tribute to the significant collection amassed by curator, art historian and long-time director of New Zealand Portrait Gallery Te Pūkenga Whakaata, Avenal McKinnon. Avenal began collecting while still a student at the Courtauld Institute in London and continued throughout her life. The exhibition includes portraits of Avenal and her family alongside works by well-known New Zealand artists with whom she built close friendships, and works that Avenal gifted to the Gallery.

Curated by Helen Kedgley

We have attached the video of the opening night speeches and acknowledgements. Thank you to Alan Bollard, Chair of Trustees, Helen Kedgley, Trustee and Curator, John McKinnon and Alex McKinnon for your warm words and wonderful insight into Avenal’s unique and highly personal art collection.

Please enjoy watching the opening below.