The Friends had an absolute ball at the latest 100th celebrations! In 2008 we celebrated the centennial milestone of the Grant Family home.
The opening was a real success and resulted in many happy faces and new memberships. At present our membership is around 300 people – enriching the gallery significantly.Aigantighe is Scottish Gaelic for ‘at home’. Who would have thought 100 years ago that the home for the Grant family would later become a home for art. The foundations that were laid a century ago allowed the public art museum to be founded in 1956. Since then the doors have been open to the wider family of South Canterbury and beyond. With community support and passion Aigantighe now cares for the 3rd largest art collection in the South Island of New Zealand. The high calibre and variety of exhibitions are of an international standard. Together with the art collection the team of staff and volunteers makes the Aigantighe a destination.
Art and a building equals a gallery. But it is the Artists, the staff, the members, the volunteers and the visitors who bring the Arts Spirit to life. At the end of the day it is about Atmosphere, discussion and inspiration. And I’m sure you will all agree, that there is plenty to be found at the Aigantighe!
On behalf of the Friends committee. To you the people of South Canterbury. Thank you for the support. Congratulations on the 100th Birthday of the Aigantighe House
- Roselyn Cloake
President of the Friends of the Aigantighe Art Gallery