The Arts Centre Trust and The Central Art Gallery have jointly developed a plan to extend the life of The Central Art Gallery which was due to close at the end of March.
Under the terms of the agreement, ownership of The Central Art Gallery will be gifted to The Arts Centre Trust, with The Central's gallerist Nadine Muir remaining at the helm.
Richard Laing, current Director of The Central, says the transition will be seamless, with no interruption to the Gallery's operations.
"We are immensely grateful for The Arts Centre's support throughout our time here. They have been an understanding landlord during the highs and lows of the past seven years, and this new arrangement demonstrates their ongoing commitment to the arts in Christchurch."
Arts Centre Director Philip Aldridge says The Central Art Gallery is an important bridge between artists and the community.
“The Gallery is a significant part of The Arts Centre’s offering, and as far as we are able, we want to keep its legacy going.”
“We hope the arrangement will ensure the Gallery's stable of artists can continue to showcase their work, and the many loyal art lovers who have patronised the Gallery over the years will continue to be able to view and purchase thought-provoking pieces.”
Aldridge says the Gallery will maintain its commitment to showcasing high-quality art while exploring opportunities to make art more accessible to a broader audience.
Pictured: Nadine Muir