For 50 years, the Friends of Aigantighe have been shaped by people who have given their time, enthusiasm, knowledge and support to the Friends and the Aigantighe Art Gallery.

Life Members hold a special place in that story. As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we are pleased to recognise our Life Members and thank them for the part they have played in the life of the Friends. Some have served on committees and taken on leadership roles. Others have supported the Gallery, its collection, exhibitions and activities in different ways. Together, they are part of the people story behind 50 years of the Friends.

Juliet Crawford A longstanding member who has given many years of service and leadership to the Friends, including serving as President and Vice-President.

Lady Fiona Elworthy A longstanding Life Member and supporter of the Friends.

Frances Glasby A valued Life Member with a longstanding commitment to volunteering and community service in South Canterbury.

Bill Glass A valued Life Member of the Friends.

Betty Manning Betty helped make possible the Gallery's Yamaha grand piano in 1987. Nearly 40 years later, it continues to be played and enjoyed at the Aigantighe.

Neil McKinnon A former President and longstanding committee member who has supported the Friends through leadership, advocacy and fundraising, including support for conservation of the Gallery's collection.

Meg Parkin Former Director of the Aigantighe Art Gallery, Meg led the Gallery through an important period of development and worked closely with the Friends on a number of projects.

Murray and Judith Purvis Longstanding supporters of the Aigantighe and generous contributors to the wider South Canterbury community.

Margriet Windhausen Artist and sculptor with a longstanding relationship with the Aigantighe as an exhibitor and supporter of the arts in South Canterbury.

D. N. and R. B. Wreford Valued Life Members of the Friends.

Thank you

Our Life Members are part of a much bigger story of friendship, volunteering, generosity and a shared love of art that began with the formation of the Friends in 1976. As we mark 50 years, we thank our Life Members, past and present, and all those who have helped the Friends support the Aigantighe over the decades. Do you have a memory, photograph or story about one of our Life Members? We would love to hear from you and continue adding to the Friends' story.