NEWS
LIFE MEMBERSHIP HONOUR BESTOWED ON LOCAL ART SUPPORTER
The Ashburton Art Gallery held its 39th Annual General Meeting on 21 September and used the opportunity to honour one of its outgoing committee members.
Linda Petrie became a volunteer in the “old” gallery and was happy to continue when the gallery and museum moved to their new building on West Street in 2015. In her presentation to the AGM, President of the Ashburton Art Gallery Committee, Fleur Tompsett highlighted Mrs Petrie’s generous philanthropic support over the years, hosting of committee and strategic planning events at her home, her enthusiastic assistance with fundraising initiatives and bubbly personality.
Being a committee member takes time, dedication and a passion for the arts, qualities which fellow committee member, Jenny Gill, says Mrs Petrie has “in abundance, along with her fabulous smile”. Jenny spoke of Mrs Petrie’s genuine willingness to embrace all that the Ashburton Art Gallery offers, from supporting exhibition openings and Friends events, to volunteering at the Gallery reception.
Mrs Petrie, through her involvement with Zonta Club of Ashburton, was instrumental in the creation of the Zonta Ashburton Female Art Awards (ZAFAA), which is now in its 8th year running. The award seeks to raise the status of female visual artists working in the wider Canterbury area and acknowledges excellence in emerging and mid-career female artists as well as providing a platform for female youth.
Art Gallery & Museum Director, Shirin Khosraviani says Mrs Petrie is “an outstanding human being” noting her genuine care for Gallery and Museum staff, always taking an interest in them and their roles.
Linda’s late husband, Donald Petrie, was also a keen supporter of the Gallery, often generously donating their delectable wine for openings and events.
Mrs Tompsett thanked Mrs Petrie for her support and dedication not only from the Gallery but from the wider Ashburton arts community.
Mrs Petrie humbly accepted the award and a beautiful bouquet of flowers, reflecting on the enormous privilege of being a part of the committee and recommending it to anyone who might be thinking of joining the team.
Image Credits:
Linda Petrie (L) is handed her Life Membership Certificate by Committee President Fleur Tompsett