JOHN DRAWBRIDGE
John Drawbridge emerged in the 1960s as an important exponent of New Zealand modernism with the evocative figurative allusions in his abstract works realised in large scale paintings and skilful prints. Over a 50-year period he created over 200 limited edition mezzotints, etchings, drypoints and lithographs.
He also worked on large public murals, which include the New Zealand House Mural in London (now housed at National Archives, Wellington), the Expo 70 Mural (rebuilt at the National Library of New Zealand), a 42 metre-long 4.8 metre-high mural in the Banqueting Hall in the Beehive (Parliament Building, Wellington) and 14 Stations of the Cross stained glass works at the Home of Compassion Chapel also in Wellington.
Drawbidge's work is included in many international collections including in the British Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and in New Zealand in institutions such as Te Papa Tongarewa (Museum of New Zealand), the Auckland Art Gallery and the Christchurch Art Gallery.
John Drawbridge was also involved in education, teaching at Wellington Polytechnic School of Design from 1964 to 1986.
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