Media release December 21

Ryman Healthcare backs Christchurch landmark

Ryman signs on as sponsor of rebuilt Christchurch Art Gallery

Christchurch’s favourite art is back on display with help from Ryman Healthcare.

The Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu was closed after the Canterbury earthquakes and a huge rebuild project to repair and strengthen the gallery has just been completed.

Ryman Healthcare has signed on as the gallery’s historic art partner for its reopening and relaunch before Christmas.

The gallery is home to more than 6,000 works of art including many by the artists Ryman villages are named after, including Margaret Stoddart, Grace Joel, Rita Angus, Evelyn Page and Rita Angus.

Ryman Healthcare managing director Simon Challies said it was a pleasure to support the art gallery by sponsoring its historic art collection.

“We know our residents love the art gallery and the significant pleasure it brings. Losing the use of the gallery after the quakes was difficult and it is great to be able to support the return of this significant community asset. We lost our office just down the road in the quakes and we are proud to be able to help out as part of the recovery.’’

“There is no doubt that seeing the gallery reopen is an important step in the recovery process for everyone in Canterbury.’’

Gallery Director Jenny Harper thanked Ryman Healthcare for its support.

“I’m thrilled that Christchurch will be getting its gallery back for Christmas. All its collection treasures – old favourites as well as new – will be on show.’’

“Our team is so thrilled to help bring a much-loved cultural facility to life again in the central city.’’

The gallery has always been a significant destination for Ryman residents both privately and through visits by groups such as Artzheimers who use art as therapy for older people with Alzheimer’s and Dementia.

The gallery served as a civil defence headquarters after the February 2011 quakes and has been closed ever since.

It has undergone a $59.2 million strengthening and repair programme and has had a base isolation system installed in its basement.

ends

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