PROVENANCE:

Terry & Moira Wood Collection

Purchased from International Art Centre, 1990

EXHIBITED:

Peter Siddell Paintings 1970 - 2010, Lopdell House, Titirangi, 30 June 2011 - 21 August 2011

In typical Siddell fashion the artist creates a composition drawing upon natural and man-made New Zealand landmarks. In this work Parnell's Jubilee building nestles against a 'Siddellised' Mount Eden with full foliaged trees at its base. The Jubilee Building, takes it name from New Zealand's 1890 Jubilee celebrations. Following these celebrations a sum of £155 remained in the Mayor's fund raising account. Prominent businessman and philanthropist, John Abbott was successful in having this money allocated towards the building of a home and teaching institute for the blind.

Today, the 1907 building designed by Edward Bartley holds a category 1 status on the Historic Places register. It is notable for its steep gable ends, arcade verandah and use of Oamaru stone. In 1995 the Jubilee building was redeveloped by the Auckland City Council to re-house the Parnell Library and Community Centre. This is a work of legacy, not only for the artist, but for one of Auckland's most recognisable historical buildings.