Going West – Peter Simpson: The Art of Writing for Art

A special after-hours gallery event as part of the Going West Festival, with Peter Simpson interviewed by Wallace Chapman against the backdrop of Colin McCahon’s epic painting, GATE III. Peter is currently working on a two-volume book about McCahon – volume one will be published in October in conjunction with the McCahon centenary year, and this session will offer an exclusive preview of that project. It will consider what it means to dig deep into the story of an already well-known and often written about artist, and what new perspectives can be found from a contemporary viewpoint. How relevant is McCahon in the 21st century?

Peter Simpson’s contribution to New Zealand literature is vast. Most recently, he received the 2017 Prime Minister’s Award for Literary Achievement in honour of his non-fiction. He is the author of the pivotal book, Colin McCahon: The Titirangi Years 1953-1959, and curated of the associated Lopdell House Gallery exhibition. This session explores his monumental task, writing a definitive book on our leading artist published for the centenary of McCahon’s birth.

Wallace Chapman has been the breakfast show host on KiwiFM, and since 2011, a host on Radio Live. He started his television work reporting stories on media satire show Eating Media Lunch, and is the host of the unique ‘pub politics’ show Back Benches. Now in its seventh year, Back Benches is described by Time Out, NZ Herald as a ‘sort of Top Gear for politics.’ He has a long- standing personal interest in the arts. He is a former member of the Artspace board and was co-founder of the Blue Oyster Gallery in Dunedin.

Light refreshments served.

12 September, 7-8pm