The Ann and John Hercus Gallery: A Legacy of Art and Philanthropy

The Suter Art Gallery in Nelson is proud to present the Ann and John Hercus Gallery, a dedicated space that celebrates the remarkable contributions of two of New Zealand’s most influential art patrons and philanthropists. Dame Ann Hercus and her husband John have been instrumental in the Gallery’s redevelopment and collection, as well as supporting the arts and various causes across the country.

deep material energy, on view in the ann and john hercus gallery in 2023

Dame Ann Hercus DCMG is a distinguished New Zealand politician, diplomat, and art patron. She was the first Minister for Women’s Affairs and the first female Police Minister in the Fourth Labour Government (1984-1987). She also served as New Zealand’s Ambassador to the United Nations (1988-1990) and worked for the UN in various capacities until 2000. She has been involved in many NGOs and SOEs, such as the New Zealand Women’s Refuge Foundation, Television New Zealand, and the Theatre Royal Charitable Foundation.

Ann and John moved to Nelson after the devastating Christchurch earthquake in 2011. A long-term supporter of The Suter, Ann was appointed as the Fund Raising Coordinator for The Suter Redevelopment Project by the Suter Trust Board and successfully raised the required funds and awareness for the Gallery’s transformation, which was completed in 2016. She also led another fundraising campaign in 2014 to acquire a rare painting by Rita Angus, one of New Zealand’s most celebrated painters. The Apple Pickers, painted in 1944 when Angus worked in Nelson’s orchards, is a valuable addition to The Suter’s collection.

Another notable donation by Ann and John is a series of works by Barry Cleavin, a renowned NZ printmaker. The couple has been collecting Cleavin’s works for decades and gifted them to The Suter in 2014. The Suter now boasts the largest collection of Cleavin’s prints in the country.

The Ann and John Hercus Gallery showcases the remarkable generosity and passion of these two art patrons who have made a lasting impact on The Suter and the Nelson community. The Gallery features a selection of works from The Suter’s collection, as well as temporary exhibitions that highlight the diversity and richness of New Zealand art. Visitors are invited to explore and enjoy the Gallery, which is a testament to the vision and dedication of Ann and John Hercus.

Suter Art Gallery Fundraising Auction - from the govenor-general website: https://gg.govt.nz

The Official Party at the Suter Art Gallery Fundraising Auction, from left: Hon Nick Smith, MP for Nelson; Rt Hon Sir Geoffrey Palmer and Mrs Margaret Palmer; Mr John Hercus and Dame Ann Hercus; Governor-General, Sir Jerry Mateparae; Mrs Catherine and Mr Craig Potton; Mrs Kim Miccio and Mr Aldo Miccio, Mayor of Nelson; and Hon Christopher Finlayson, Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage.