Collections
The Blumhardt Collection, based at TheNewDowse, is derived from the core of Doreen's personal ceramics collection that she built up over many years including excellent examples of work by local and international potters. Featuring examples by some of the world's leading practitioners, the Collection has work from Shoji Hamada, Kanjiro Kawai, Lucie Rie, Takeichi Kawai and many others. There are also excellent examples by some of New Zealand's leading artists such as Len Castle, Peter Stichbury, Helen Mason, Mirek Smisek and Muriel Moody.
The collection policy is aimed at the acquisition of examples of excellence in decorative art and design since 1945. The Collection is therefore not static and the Foundation seeks to add to the Collection where relevant, and to seek donations of appropriate items that will enhance the Collection's purpose. Where appropriate, such as when donated items duplicate already held work, pieces may be sold and the funds used to support the educational objectives of the Foundation. This means that your donated works will enhance the decorative arts and design throughout New Zealand either through contributing to the Collection or to the educational objectives.
Additionally the Blumhardt Collection will be available nationally to other galleries. Making the Collection available nationally will be one of the prime means by which the Foundation will celebrate excellence and bring best examples of decorative art and design to as many New Zealanders as possible.