Luncheon Under the Ash Tree: The Ian & Elespie Prior Collection
Luncheon Under the Ash Tree: The Ian & Elespie Prior Collection
A touring exhibition from the Masterton Museum and Gallery Aratoi, Luncheon under the ash tree brings to Wellington audiences the private art collection of Wellington local Dr Ian Prior and his late wife Elespie. Together the Priors’ amassed a significant and deeply personal art collection, spanning over 50 years in the making. Showcasing such major names as Colin McCahon, Toss Woollaston, Ralph Hotere, John Drawbridge, Evelyn Page and Milan Mrkusich, the collection has arisen both from the Priors’ support and passion for New Zealand art and through their personal connections and friendships with many artists.
Now in his eighties, Dr Ian Prior is still a very active supporter of the arts in Wellington. Among many other endeavours, he is a founding member of the Wellington Sculpture Trust and also serves on the Lilburn Residence Trust and the Sounz Centre for Contemporary Music.
Exhibition developed and toured by Aratoi – Wairarapa Museum of Art and History with the support of BMX, Masterton District Council, Masterton Lands Trust and Will Fels Foundation.