Sir John Trimmer to open Vincents Exhibition

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Monday 29 October 2008

Press Release

For immediate release

Royal New Zealand ballet star Sir Jon Trimmer, this year celebrating the 50th year of his dancing career, is to open the Vincents Art Workshop Annual Group Fundraising Exhibition.

Sir Jon will open the exhibition in the Gallery at the St James Theatre where, two weeks later, he will be on stage in the title role of in the exciting new RNZ ballet production of Don Quixote.

Vincents chairman Gus Firestone said Vincents aimed to encourage all those who used its services to achieve their potential – a philosophy exemplified by Sir Jon.

“For half a century Sir Jon, New Zealand’s first ballet knight, has been delighting new Zealand audiences with his balletic prowess and his heart-warming portrayals of some of ballet’s best-loved characters.

“He represents the pinnacle of achievement in the arts in New Zealand.”

Sir Jon and his wife Jacqui are both potters and have a wide interest in the arts beyond the world of ballet. “Vincents offers Wellingtonians from all walks of life the chance to explore their creativity. It offers hope through making art in a supportive atmosphere,” Sir Jon said.

Award winning Vincents Art Workshop in Willis St is an integrated studio complex that anyone can use but which, in particular, provides arts and craft facilities for those with disabilities, who've been in mental health institutions, are unemployed or on low incomes.

It receives funding from the Ministry of Social Development, Wellington City Council and various trusts. It also relies on sales from its Annual Group Exhibition to help meet running expenses and to provide quality art tutors and materials.

The exhibition will feature the best of the year’s works by Vincents’ artists in a wide range of media, including paintings, ceramics, textiles and mixed media. All works will be for sale. There will also be special features including a cash and carry table with budget priced works available on opening night and a limited edition range of prints by renowned Wellington artist Sam Broad.

ENDS

Don Quixote opens at the St James Theatre on October 31. Bookings: ticketek.co.nz

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