Todd Energy to support the Len Lye Centre

15 September 2011

Todd Energy to support the Len Lye Centre

Todd Energy has today announced its support of the proposed Len Lye Centre in New Plymouth. Speaking at the official opening of Todd Energy’s McKee LPG Plant in Taranaki, Todd Corporation Chairman Mr John Todd said “I am pleased to announce that Todd Energy will make a significant contribution towards both the construction of the Len Lye Centre and an ongoing educational programme to be run by the centre and the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery. ”

$2.5 million will be donated by Todd Energy towards the construction of the centre and a further $100,000 per year for five years will be provided to run an educational programme primarily aimed at school children in the Taranaki region.

The Len Lye Centre is to be built adjacent to the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery in New Plymouth. It will be the world centre for the care, display, research and development of the works and ideas of Len Lye. The iconic building has been designed by one of New Zealand’s leading architectural firms, Pattersons and features a façade of 14 metre high stainless steel.

Len Lye (1901-1980) was a New Zealand born artist known primarily for his kinetic sculptures and experimental films. Example of Len’s work can be found in prominent museums and archives around the world. Here in New Zealand two of his kinetic sculptures are a part of the waterfront in New Plymouth (Wind Wand) and Wellington (Water Whirler).

Mr Todd said “Len Lye was a pioneer in his field. The values that he represented – innovation, resourcefulness, ingenuity and technical brilliance are all values that Todd Energy embraces.”

“Todd Energy is committed to the growth of Taranaki and to investing in the local community. We believe the Len Lye Centre will be a valuable asset for New Plymouth and for New Zealand and we look forward to being a part of it. ” he said.

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