Wow, 50?! You've come a long way Aratoi!

Piers Fuller Reporter from News of Wairarapa

In 2019, Aratoi Wairarapa Museum of Art and History, in Masterton, celebrates its first 50 years of existence with an exhibition representing 50 years of collecting: fifty/fifty - 50 years of Aratoi.
With more than 3000 items to choose from it has been no easy task, but the selection reflects the highlights and significant events, as well as the many gifts received, that have helped form the Aratoi collection.
From the obvious, such as work by Colin McCahon, Robin White and Barbara Hepworth, to the less obvious: an 1869 ship’s biscuit with a tale to tell of the visit of a prince; from Taonga Māori to botanical sketches and contemporary art to photographs of early settlement, there will be some surprises as items never shown before emerge into the light. The 50th celebrations include public events, an education programme, and a publication.
fifty/fifty - 50 years of Aratoi Opening: 16 August, 5.30pm.
Publication launch: 11 October, 5.30pm.
The exhibition continues until 10 November.
Aratoi is open daily, 10-4, Koha is welcome.