Agnes Wood
New Zealand artist and writer
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Agnes Rosetta Wood (née Eady, 26 May 1921 – 12 December 2013) was a New Zealand artist and writer.[1] She is known for her research and writing on the life of fellow New Zealand artist Colin McCahon.[2]
26 May 1921
Agnes Wood | |
|---|---|
| Born | Agnes Rosetta Eady 26 May 1921 |
| Died | 12 December 2013 (aged 92) Auckland, New Zealand |
| Alma mater | Elam School of Fine Arts |
| Spouse |
Edward Phillip Wood
(m. 1944; died 1986) |
| Relatives | Alfred Eady (father) |
Early life and family
Career
Wood initially trained and worked as a milliner but later studied at the Elam School of Fine Arts in Auckland, graduating with a master's degree in 1973, aged 52. As a student there she was influenced by her tutors Robert Ellis and Colin McCahon, and her early work explored the structures and patterns of cityscapes.[6][7] Her figurative paintings, which often depict geometrical portraits on abstract backgrounds, frequently feature figures wearing hats, headpieces or simplified floral headbands — a probable result of her previous training in millinery.[6]
In 1997, Wood published Colin McCahon: The Man and the Teacher, which was based on correspondence and interviews with McCahon.[8][9]
In 2009, an 88th birthday exhibition of Wood's work was held in Auckland.[10] Paintings by Wood are held in the collections of Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki and the University of Auckland.[11][12]
Death
Wood died in Auckland on 12 December 2013, and her body was cremated at Purewa Crematorium.[1][13]