Here is a grand opportunity to contribute to the restoration of Auckland’s last steam ferry by bidding on Trade Me for this limited edition print of the 1983 painting by Gary Schofield MNZM, framed in wood from the ferry itself.
Go to www.trademe.co.nz/a/marketplace/antiques-collectables/art-deco-retro/art and search for Toroa Steam Ferry. The Toroa is portrayed at the ferry company’s wharf off Beaumont St, with other ferries and boats, three years after her final Devonport run. Other ferries were buried in the Westhaven reclamation; the Toroa was rescued and is being restored to full operational and authentic state, to steam again on the Waitematā.
The Artist
This print is the last of the run and was generously gifted to the Toroa Preservation Society by Gary Schofield in 2021. Born in Palmerston North, Gary did much of his training in England and later worked in the United States. He is a writer, musician and television producer, and also president of Global Concern for Climate Change. His many commissions include portraits of Charles and Diana, Prince and Princess of Wales, King Tawhiao te Whero Whero and Sir Edmund Hillary. In 2016 Gary was made a Member of the NZ Order of Merit for his contribution to the arts and to NZ—USA relations. www.garyschofield.com
The Picture Frame
The two types of kauri timber used in this frame have been salvaged from damaged portions of the Toroa and date back to the ferry’s launch in 1925. The lighter kauri is from tongue-and-groove panelling used in the interior cabin wall. The darker centre portion is from heart kauri used for hull planking. The frame was constructed by Mike Walls, a Toroa restoration volunteer.
Size: 850 W x 760 H [mm]. Glass: Non-reflective and UV protective.
Please bid generously for this unique piece of Auckland’s maritime history and contribute to the restoration of Auckland’s last steam ferry