Gordon Walters: Prints + Design

Although best known as a painter, printmaking and design were integral parts of the work of New Zealand artist Gordon Walters (1919-1995). This exhibition, curated by William McAloon, considered Walters’ printmaking activities alongside his work as a graphic designer and commercial artist, placing these works in the larger context of his practice as a painter.

Presenting all 13 screenprints of Walters’ works of art, this exhibition also un-earthed less well-known images produced for publication, including artwork for the magazine Te Ao Hou/The New World, designs for journals such as Ascent and Landfall, book-covers and other commissions.

This exhibition was the first time that Walters’ prints had been shown in their entirety. It is also the first occasion on which a comprehensive selection of Walters’ designs for publication had been bought together.

As well as these finished works, the exhibition included a range of preparatory studies, giving an important insight into Walters’ working methods. More generally, the exhibition considered the influence that Walters’ work as a commercial artist and graphic designer had on his fine art practice, and in turn, Walters’ influence on graphic design in New Zealand.

Curated by William McAloon.

An informative catalogue was produced in conjunction with the exhibition Gordon Walters: Prints + Design. Published by the Adam Art Gallery, it includes an in-depth account of Walters’ design practice by exhibition curator William McAloon. Available for purchase here