Art Galleries in Southland

Southland, New Zealand, is home to several notable art galleries that showcase a diverse range of art, history, and natural history collections. Two prominent galleries in the region are the Eastern Southland Gallery and the Southland Museum and Art Gallery.

The Eastern Southland Gallery, located in Gore, is a major provincial art gallery housed in the town's former Carnegie library building, constructed in 1909. It is known for its two significant permanent exhibits: the Ralph Hotere Gallery, featuring works by renowned artist Ralph Hotere, including collaborations with poet Hone Tuwhare, and the John Money Collection, which includes artworks by Rita Angus and other notable artists. The gallery also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions and events.

The Southland Museum and Art Gallery, the region's largest cultural and heritage institution, features a diverse array of art, history, and natural history collections. Established in 1960, the museum underwent expansions and redevelopment in 1990. Currently closed due to earthquake risk, plans are in place to reopen the museum in 2023.

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