Frances Hodgkins’ Masterpieces Find a New Home at Mahara Gallery in Waikanae
The Field Collection, which includes 24 paintings by renowned New Zealand artist Frances Hodgkins, has found its new home at the Mahara Gallery in Waikanae. Previously stored in the Paraparaumu public library, the collection has been relocated to the gallery, marking a significant milestone in the redevelopment of the gallery space.
The collection, consisting of 44 artworks, holds historical significance due to its connection to the Hodgkins family. Although Frances and her sister Isabel were born and raised in Dunedin, the collection gradually accumulated in Kāpiti when Waikanae became the center of the family’s life after Isabel’s marriage to local businessman and politician William Field.
Preserved by Isabel’s son and Frances’ nephew, Peter Field senior, the responsibility for the collection later passed to the Field Collection Trust after the deaths of Peter and his wife Dorothy. In 2000, following an exhibition at the newly established Mahara Gallery, the collection embarked on a nationwide tour, raising concerns about its storage once the tour concluded.
Seeking a long-term solution, the trustees of the Field Collection approached the Kāpiti Coast District Council. Recognizing the strong Kāpiti connection, the council agreed to temporarily store the collection in the library building, providing the time needed to plan for a permanent home.
The redevelopment of the Mahara Gallery became a collaborative project involving the Field Collection Trust, the Mahara Gallery Trust Board, and the Kāpiti Coast District Council. The Field Collection Trust contributed the collection, the Gallery Trust Board secured two-thirds of the capital cost, while the council provided the land, one third of the capital cost, and an annual grant for operational expenses.
On Wednesday, the Field Collection was transferred from the Paraparaumu library to its new location in the Mahara Gallery. The collection, currently stored near the purpose-built storage area, will be showcased in the gallery’s opening show, with a selection of works regularly on display for public enjoyment.
This move marks an important milestone for the Mahara Gallery and the Kāpiti community. The gallery now houses the largest collection of Frances Hodgkins’ work in public ownership outside of Te Papa, Auckland Public Art Gallery, and the Dunedin Public Art Gallery. The esteemed artist, known for her international influence, considered Waikanae as a special place, further adding to the significance of the collection finding its permanent home in the region.
The successful culmination of this venture demonstrates the dedication to providing accessible and high-quality arts services to the community. The Mahara Gallery continues to uphold its role as the district gallery for Kāpiti, offering a platform for artistic expression and cultural appreciation.
As the Field Collection takes its rightful place in the gallery, this momentous occasion celebrates the artistic legacy of Frances Hodgkins and further enhances the reputation of the Mahara Gallery in the global art community.
