A Remarkable Dress Woven With New Zealand’s Creative Legacy

An unconventional wedding dress with ties to two iconic New Zealand creatives takes centre stage at the Whanganui Regional Museum this August.

The latest Outfit of the Month showcase features a striking floor-length silk dress hand-printed with bold, organic motifs. Worn by celebrated local artist Joanna Paul at her 2003 wedding in Whanganui, the dress is a unique creation by pioneering textile designer Fanny Buss, active from the 1950s to the 1980s.

‘Fanny Buss’s designs were distinctive and innovative — much like Joanna Paul’s works,’ says Trish Nugent-Lyne, Pou Tiaki/Collections & Curatorial Lead. ‘This dress is a wonderful reminder of the strong women who have shaped New Zealand’s art, fashion, and community life. We’re excited to share its story with visitors.’

Joanna Paul (1945–2003), a multi-disciplinary artist, settled in Whanganui in the mid-1980s. Known for her work in painting, drawing, poetry, film, and photography, she became a key figure in Whanganui’s creative scene. Paul was also a passionate advocate for the environment and heritage preservation, making a lasting impact on the community she called home.

The dress will be the focus of a free lunchtime talk led by Trish Nugent-Lyne on Friday, 1 August at 12:15pm. Visitors are invited to hear about the garment’s unique connection to Whanganui’s vibrant arts culture.

This edition of Outfit of the Month is specially chosen to complement the major retrospective Joanna Margaret Paul: Imagined In The Context Of A Room currently showing at Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery.

The outfit will remain on display for the month of August. Entry to the talk is free, with koha welcomed to support the Museum’s ongoing work in preserving our region’s heritage.

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