Friends behind showing of restored works at gallery

A Set of restored art works are finally getting their time in the spotlight at the Aigantighe Art Gallery thanks to the fundraising efforts of the Timaru gallery's voluntary supporters.
The 11 delicate works on paper include etchings, water colour, pastel, pen and ink works. Except for one, they have been donated to the gallery over time, but have note been up to exhibition standard because of their condition.
However in the past year the Friends of the Aigantighe have raised nearly #3000 to par for a Christchurch-based professional conservator to restore the works, which can now be seen in a special exhibition, BeFriended, which will continue until the middle of next year.
Friends of the Aigantighe Past President Roselyn Cloake said its members were excited to see the exhibition become a realisty as they had worked hard to raise the funds. "We hope the public will enjoy seeing the works and the gallery and leave inspired," Ms Cloake said.
Gallery director Dr Fiona Ciaran said all the gallery staff greatly appreciated the fundraising and contribution of the Friends towards the project.

By Guy Williams - The Timaru Courier - 10th November 2011