A long friendship in art and ideas through letters.
By Peter Simpson
Publication date: April 2024
NZ RRP (incl. GST): $65
Extent: 528 pages
Format: Hardback
ISBN: 978-1-99-116552-7
This substantial book of letters, selected by esteemed Colin McCahon scholar Peter Simpson, illuminates one of the most remarkable relationships in New Zealand art.
The painter Colin McCahon and the librarian Ron O’Reilly first met in 1938, in Dunedin, when McCahon was 19 and O’Reilly 24. They remained close, writing regularly to each other until 1981 when McCahon became too unwell to write.
Their 380 letters covered McCahon’s art practice, the contemporary art scene, ideas, philosophy and the spiritual life. Dazzling in their range, intensity and candour, the letters track a unique friendship and partnership in art.
The book is illustrated with 64 images, all discussed in the letters. Simpson’s selection represents the first time these letters have been transcribed and collected in an act of great generosity to future scholars. It adds a new dimension to an understanding of McCahon and his career and is a rich and lively addition to any art lover’s McCahon library.
O’Reilly’s son, Matthew O’Reilly, and McCahon’s grandson, Finn McCahon-Jones, contribute insightful essays that round out the unique perspective the letters afford.
About the author
Peter Simpson was Associate Professor in the Department of English at the University of Auckland for 30 years. He is one of this country’s most experienced and prolific writers on art. He has curated three significant exhibitions of McCahon’s art, and among his many books is a major two-volume work on McCahon. He writes regularly for Art New Zealand and major art catalogues. In 2017 he received the Prime Minister’s Award for Literary Achievement.