Passport to Europe

In a bid to send the orchestra from Christchurch’s Linwood College to Europe in 2011, more than 130 pieces of art were sold at Turners Auctions.

Tom Davies, teacher and trip organiser at Linwood College, says many of the works are collector’s pieces.

“It was a huge success and the College managed to raise more than $20,000.”
Over 500 people attended the auction and there were buyers from all over NZ bidding via phone.

Internationally-renowned Christchurch artist Keith Morant is an avid supporter of the school and provided what he describes as one of his best new works, Kiwi Summer to the auction, along with three other paintings.

The question on everyone’s lips was how much Prime Minister John Key’s piece would sell for. Mr Key, took pen to paper and submitted a doodle of the Beehive in support of the fund-raiser. It eventually sold for $1,050.

Other artists in the line up included national and regional talent including Grahame Sydney, Bill Hammond, Philip Trusttum and Gretchen Albrecht.

“The fact these artists are helping us get to our goal is humbling,” says Mr Davies.

“A lot of our students come from modest backgrounds – many haven’t travelled outside of the South Island. Though parts of the itinerary are to be confirmed, we’re hoping to play at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall.

“This could be the trip of a lifetime for some of our kids.”

Ian Curry from Turners Christchurch says this is the biggest art auction of its kind in the South Island, and that his team are thrilled to donate their time to make it a success.

Artists are already booking their place in the auction next year.

Four local Christchurch MP’s attended the auction and each donated a signed bottle of wine.