The crater of a volcano is full of fire and energy and in the case of Lyttelton, deep pools of creativity as well. Only fitting, then, that a fundraising art auction for the local school should become famous for the quality of works on offer.

The late Bill Hammond, for example, regularly donated works for the auction. Bill Hammond originals went under the hammer for under $10,000 in 2019 and 2017. This year his widow Jane has donated a 2007 etching Bone Eagle C, expected to fetch over $4000.

The biennial Peninsula Art Auction, which began in 2005, was not held in 2021 due to Covid-19 planning challenges.

With over 100 artists in this year’s auction with links to the port town or the wider Banks Peninsula, it is an opportunity for emerging artists to exhibit alongside the famous. As well as the Bill Hammond, there will be works by Jason Greig, Asher Raawiri Newbery, Nichola Shanley, Hannah Beehre, Ben Reid, Mark Whyte, Scott Jackson and Dan Summers, son of the late Llew Summers.

Up to 200 works, including paintings, sculpture, jewellery, ceramics, and photography, are expected to be exhibited. A Silent Auction will run all weekend at a pop-up gallery at Lyttelton Primary School. The premium works will be auctioned live by Joe Bennett at a ticketed event on the Sunday night.

Kim Hickford, school mum and member of the organising team, loves seeing children who have benefited in the past from the funds raised now exhibiting next to the likes of Bill Hammond.

“There is such a depth of talented creatives that come from this place and it is a joy to see them brought together for such a great cause,” she says.

The event is organised by the Lyttelton Education Charitable Trust for Lyttelton Primary School. The previous Peninsula Art Auction raised over $40,000 for the school.

Lyttelton Primary School, Sat 28 – Sun 29 Oct, 10am – 4pm

Gala and Live Auction, Sun 29 Oct, 7pm

peninsula-art.co.nz