Some of North Otago’s best-known artists have stepped up to support Ōamaru’s Forrester Gallery upgrade.

The Uplifting Art Auction opened on July 6, with more than 20 artworks up for sale, and runs until September 1.

The auction is being run by the Friends of the Forrester Gallery, and has already garnered more than $3000 worth of bids.

Original works from artists such as Watts Davies, Donna Demente, Peter Cleverley and Sarka Cibulcova are up for sale, as well as some prints, ceramics and sculptures.

Forrester Gallery director Chloe Searle says the extension planned for the 1884 former Bank of New South Wales building includes adding a public lift, a purpose-built collection storage space, a loading dock, a new space for touring exhibitions and an education and events space.

While some of the upgrade costs came under the Waitaki District Council-approved Cultural Facilities Development Project, up to $8 million needed to be raised externally.

In September last year, a $6.5m grant from the Regional Culture and Heritage Fund was a massive boost to the fundraising efforts, ensuring the project could go ahead.

“The Friends are now in the final stages of raising the money needed to make this project a reality,” Chloe says.

The works available in the auction are being exhibited on the top floor of the Forrester, and most are for sale via silent auction, while others can be purchased directly.

Friends of the Forrester chair Heather Machin says there is “something for everyone”.

“With artworks for different ages, styles and values. 

“I would like to thank everyone who has so generously donated works. While many donations have come from locals, Wētā Workshop have also got on board with a donation of a Dr Grordbort's sculpture,” Heather says.

Many of the works are for sale with no reserve. Bidders need to contact the Forrester Gallery to register as a bidder and then place their bids. The art works can be viewed in the exhibition and also online.

Building work on the extension is expected to start in early 2025 with completion projected for 2026.