Artwork Donated To Mark Establishment Of Moray Place Library

An original, contemporary artwork, commemorating the Dunedin Public Libraries 2008 centenary celebrations, will be unveiled to the public on the Ground Floor of the City Library on Monday 23 May at 11.00am. Mayor Dave Cull, Library Services Manager Bernie Hawke, and President of the DPLA Merle van de Klundert will speak to acknowledge the gift from the Dunedin Public Library Association.

The abstract artwork titled ‘Assimulation Series, Number 9’ is by Odelle Morshuis – a graduate from the University of Otago, who also attained a Masters of Fine Art at Wimbledon Art School in London. Odelle, who was a full-time artist in London from 1999-2004, has returned to New Zealand and currently lives and works in Bannockburn, Central Otago.

The Library is grateful for the donations over many years from different people, organisations and businesses. They contribute to the vitality of the Library environs and are an indicator of the appreciation and value bestowed on the Library by the community. This artwork adds to the significant cultural collection housed throughout the Library Network.

Merle Van de Klundert, President of the Friends of the Library, says: “The Library Association has given this painting in gratitude and memory of Mark Cohen and his Committee who fought hard to establish a public library in Dunedin. The 10,000 pounds from Andrew Carnegie enabled the Council to build the Library in Moray Place over one hundred years ago.”

A self-guided art tour pamphlet is available to download from the Dunedin Public Libraries website at www.dunedinlibraries.govt.nz.