Source: Radio New Zealand
Philip Trusttum. Supplied / Christchurch Art Gallery
Renowned New Zealand figurative, expressionist artist Philip Trusttum has died, aged 85, with multiple leading galleries paying tribute online.
Christchurch Art Gallery said Trusttum’s paintings “embrace life at full throttle, just as he did”.
“Bursting with colour, movement, energy and humour, they reflect his insatiable fascination with the world.
“His art was inspired by his activities and interests – from gardening, horses and tennis to the patterns he noticed on clothes and road signs – often relayed from unexpected angles and in startling close-up. Everyday subjects – red berries in a garden, the whirling blades of a mower, his grandson’s toys – were translated into his distinctively exuberant semi-abstraction.”
The artwork Northern Lights by Philip Trusttum, which is installed at 44 The Terrace in Wellington. Supplied
Born in Raetihi on 9 June, 1940, Trusttum studied at the University of Canterbury’s School of Fine Arts, before going on to exhibit his works in Aotearoa, Australia, Europe and the United States.
He was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to art in 2021.
“His acclaimed and prolific practice was grounded in the daily studio sessions he remained dedicated to even in his later years … his works are represented in all of the major public, and many private, collections in this country,” the gallery said.
“Philip Trusttum will be remembered as one of our finest painters, a passionate supporter of art and artists and a great friend to the Gallery.”
de Castro-Robinson – a zigzagged gaze Image 1: Philip Trusttum: Il Vecchio Castello Collection of the Wallace Arts Trust
The New Zealand Portrait Gallery Te Pūkenga Whakaata also acknowledged Trusttum’s death.
“He leaves behind a prolific body of work and is a significant loss for the arts community.”
PG gallery192, in Christchurch, said it had been a privilege to share his practice with audiences over the years.
“As one of Aotearoa’s most significant contemporary painters, Philip brought extraordinary energy and wholehearted commitment to his work. He was always making – music playing from his CDs, brush in hand; his bold, expressive paintings often offered glimpses into his everyday life.
“He was a generous mentor and inspiration to many artists, always welcoming visitors into his studio and sharing his passion for painting.
“He will be greatly missed, not only by those who had the pleasure of knowing and working with him, but by the wider arts community across Aotearoa New Zealand.”
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
