Development Trust helps fund pounamu carvings purchase

As part of its commitment to the cultural development of the region, The West Coast Development Trust has put $7,500 towards purchasing works from the 11th New Zealand Pounamu and Jade Exhibition. The exhibition will be hosted at the Left Bank Art Gallery in Greymouth from 14 January to 28 February 2006.

Held every two years, the exhibition is an opportunity for carvers of jade and pounamu to display their works. It is the only forum in New Zealand that focuses solely on the distinctive art forms associated with pounamu and brings together carvers from throughout the country to display the best of their work.

“The Coast is the spiritual home of pounamu,” says Wayne Lorimer, Left Bank Gallery’s Director. “We are very proud of both our heritage and our permanent
pounamu collection, and we are delighted to be hosting this exhibition again.”

The exhibition also offers an opportunity for the students on the Tai Poutini polytechnic carving course to enter their own works and to compare their achievements with the country’s foremost carvers in this field.

This is the second time The West Coast Development Trust has supported the event, which attracts many people and generates significant national interest. “Not only does this exhibition showcase the very best in pounamu and jade carving, it also promotes the region as a cultural destination,” says Michael Trousselot, CEO of The Development Trust.

ENDS

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