For Immediate Release
November 5, 2006

Striking New Zealand Artwork Selected for Newly Refurbished Stamford Plaza Foyer Opened by Prime Minister

A new work by celebrated New Zealand painter Bill Riley – commissioned for the foyer of the newly refurbished Stamford Plaza Hotel in Auckland – is now open for public viewing.

Entitled PULSE, the artwork is a major part of the refurbishment that was officially opened Friday evening, November 3, 2006, by the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Helen Clark, a long-standing supporter of the arts.

Art Advisor Paul Baragwanath, Director of Auckland-based ARTT Ltd, oversaw the commissioning of the artwork and is delighted with the result.

“Bill Riley is a respected New Zealand artist of the highest calibre, and his work is held in significant public and private collections throughout New Zealand.’

“Riley’s art is known for its translucency of surface, mastery of colour, fine execution and elegant composition,” says Mr Baragwanath.

“The Stamford Plaza painting exemplifies these qualities and attests to Riley’s ability. The five star location provides a unique opportunity for the public to view this stunning artwork – from the comfort of their dining chair!’

General Manager of the Stamford Plaza, Mr Peter Gee, said the artwork was a welcome addition to the newly renovated hotel foyer.

"Following the completion of a $10 million refurbishment to the hotel, we are thrilled to have commissioned a painting by one of New Zealand's foremost contemporary artists, and to be able to display it in our new foyer for the benefit of everyone who passes through our doors. It undoubtedly enhances the entire reception area, and we are certain that guests and visitors to the hotel will feel the same way.”

At 1.3m high by 5.0 metres long, the work represents a major commission of a New Zealand artwork for an international hotel chain. The two key elements of the work are oil paint and acrylic panel, set upon an aluminium mount. Varying densities of white paint were applied onto the reflective, translucent surface of the acrylic medium. Under the hand of the artist, these two elements fuse to create an artwork of great elegance and subtlety. The composition, consisting of vertical bands or strata of paint, produces a sense of fluid movement across the surface of the work.

Mr Baragwanath is an Auckland-based art advisor whose expertise covers all aspects of art – from collection management to acquisition, advisory services and installation.

ENDS

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