Art Auction fundraiser for Cyclone Gabrielle recovery

Published on 14 June 2023

Local artist Ken Laraman has generously offered three artworks for auction to raise funds toward the Far North district communities recovering from Cyclone Gabrielle.

The nationwide Adopt a Community initiative was launched to connect councils impacted by the cyclone to those unaffected, with the aim of encouraging community to community support.

Waitaki District Council is paired with the Far North District Council through this scheme. A Variety Show fundraising initiative put on by Council earlier in the year raised over to $10,000 and further donations have been made at Council offices which are also assisting with the recovery.

All funds raised from this auction, coordinated by the Forrester Gallery and Council, will go to the Far North District Council Mayoral Relief Fund to support their continued recovery efforts. The fund is used to assist in rebuilding infrastructure, providing aid to affected families, and facilitating the restoration of the region's social and economic vitality.

Mayor for Waitaki Gary Kircher says, “I’m so grateful to Ken for his generosity, and now I challenge our community to get in behind the initiative and raise as much money as possible! When you get a quality piece of art in exchange, it really is a win for both the Far North district and the successful bidders! We’re hoping to get some generous bids from art lovers who want to contribute to this important cause.”

The oil on canvas artworks, titled Plastic Sea III, Plastic Sea IV and Touch Lightly this Earth (pictured) are part of a collection of atmospheric seascapes that celebrate the beauty of nature, while exploring environmental themes.

Artist Ken Laraman welcomes this opportunity to show solidarity and compassion for communities facing adversity “there’re a lot of people suffering all around the world, and in our own country – New Zealand’s whole population is the size of a European city and we’re all neighbours really, even if we might have different opinions. We never know when we’ll be in the same boat and needing support from other people”.

People can view the artworks on display in the shop front window, next door to the Caroline Eve store (53 Thames Street, Ōamaru), and on the Auction webpage where bids can be submitted in a silent online auction. The auction closes 14 July 2023 and winning bidders will be notified.

visit the auction