This is an auction for RUDI GOPAS (1913-1983) by Chris Ronayne.

"There are two perspectives on the life of artist Rudi Gopas: from Auckland and from Christchurch. He stayed in Auckland memory only for the single show he had in the 1967 Auckland Festival and for isolated paintings in group touring shows. The 1967 show of Galactic paintings arose out of Gopas' lifelong interest in astronomy. They were remarkable for their surfaces, which resembled a lunar landscape - one glittering with deep layers of colour that seemed a source of light rather than reflecting it. These impressive landscapes were also notable for the inventive use of PVA paint. The occasional paintings that turned up in the group shows or were illustrated in books about contemporary New Zealand art were quite different. The most memorable were of fishing boats done with great authority and a glowing use of rich but sombre colour. But Canterbury artists were full of anecdotes about the prominence of the man and his influential intellectual attitudes. It was evident that teaching at Ilam School of Fine Art at Canterbury University was an extraordinary personality who evoked both admiration and fear. Later there were rumours of mental trouble, of obsession and delusion and poems that ended with the words, "Christchurch is Hell". Yet the memory remained of the excellence and power of that 1967 exhibition. This well-presented biography of Gopas by his son-in-law fills in the background. Essential reading for anyone interested in the history of art, society or university teaching in New Zealand."

• NZ Herald

Large format paperback 2002.

267 pages.

Illustrations throughout.

Near new condition.

The cost of shipping is $6.95 (tracked mail). If you are on rural delivery the shipping cost will be $9.95.

There is of course no charge for shipping if you collect these books from my shop in Palmerston North following the auction.

Payment within seven days, please.