People interested in Len Lye now have a new way to find out more about this important New Zealand artist, and for free.

On 16 February the Friends of the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery, with the support of the Gallery and the Len Lye Foundation, launched Friends of Len, a free information service available to anyone interested in learning more about Len Lye (1901-1980).

Those who sign up will receive quarterly e-newsletter offering insights about the artist and his work, as well as updates on upcoming Len Lye exhibitions. Invitations to Len Lye events and reductions on Len Lye merchandise from the Gallery’s Art and Design Shop and will also be on offer.

Friends President Chris Herlihy says that Friends of Len is a great fit for the Friends of the Gallery.

“We see our role as supporting the activities of the Gallery and Len Lye is a major force within the Govett-Brewster. Len Lye is without doubt one of New Zealand’s most influential artists and we certainly believe the demand is out there for more information.”

Govett-Brewster Director Rhana Devenport agrees, saying: “Around 60,000 people visit the Gallery each year and a significant number ask about the work of Len Lye.  Friends of Len is one way we can keep people informed about current interest in and presentations of Lye’s work both locally and internationally.”

Issue one of the Friends of Len e-newsletter will be available to the general public from Saturday 17 February on www.lenlye.com. This issue samples a range of upcoming and recent projects and events featuring Lye’s work. These include his presence in Brazil at the 2006 Bienal de São Paulo, and the major exhibition Le mouvement des images at the Centre Pompidou, Paris. Closer to home, updates include a screening of his films in the Auckland Festival AK07 and his inclusion in the recent publication 40 Legends of New Zealand Design. 
Friends of Len sign up forms are available on the website or from the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery.

Ends.

For more information please contact:

Hannah Leahy
Communications Co-ordinator
hannahl@govettbrewster.com
+64-6-759-6717

or

Rhana Devenport
Director
rhanad@govettbrewster.com
+64-6-759-0854