November is always a great month for exhibitions. Squidgy economy or not, this year is no exception, with dealer galleries presenting survey shows and major new works by some of the region’s leading artists.

We’re fortunate to have art of this calibre so readily accessible, particularly when some of our strategic public institutions are closed. The public function played by private galleries is often overlooked, so it was encouraging to read Wellington critic Mark Amery’s commentary in the Dominion last week.

Public institutions are gearing up for the Triennials (so it must be summer?) The 6th Asia Pacific Triennial opens in Brisbane early next month and The 4th Auckland Triennial announced its adventurous programme for March 2010.

Congratulations to Dunedin based ceramic artist Jim Cooper, who shared the country’s top Portage Ceramic Award with Madeleine Child and Philip Jarvis. The works are on display at Lopdell Gallery, Titirangi all of this month.

Art is much less important than life, but what a poor life without it. Robert Motherwell

Jennifer Buckley
Director - Auckland Art Fair