A recent publication on the work of the late Patricia France (1911 - 1995) was published by Longacre Press. Titled 'Painting Out the Past' it celebrates her life and work. An arresting, beautifully illustrated biography that traces the lifetime of this fascinating, remarkable woman. ;Painting Out the Past; showcases Patricia's captivating and impressionistic paintings along with photographs and extracts from her extensive correspondence.

During the late 1920s, Patricia travelled through Europe but upon her return to New Zealand struggled to find a place for herself in Auckland society. After many difficult years she went on to establish herself as a successful painter.

Most at home in the company of artists, poets, sculptors and actors, Patricia regularly corresponded with Colin McCahon and Toss Woollaston, exhibited her work with Ralph Hotere and Anna Caselberg, and acted as patron to the many young artists who visited her gracious Highgate home. In her later years she stoically ignored the onset of blindness, and triumphed over her earlier life by 'painting out the past'.