Opening the Tony and Kristin Arthur Library & Gallery 2022

In 2020 Inverlochy Art School began a transformative journey back to its founding four core objectives - Foster interest in the arts, promote public exhibition, encourage discourse of art concepts & ideas, and provide instruction in the arts. In this process, a metamorphosis of Inverlochy House was set in motion by renovating spaces to be more welcoming and community minded. 

This involved turning one of the front rooms into a formal gallery and library. Historically the room was the library and office of the first owner, Thomas Kennedy Macdonald. The room was painted, lighting updated, a bespoke dining table built, shelving created and filled with an array of quality books to share as well as an added arty flair to the adjacent kitchenette. All materials and labour were donated by two loving Inverlochy volunteers and books donated by various people from the wider Inverlochy community.

The space now hosts regular art exhibitions, offers a range of uses from quiet study to a room for presentations, art openings and entices students, staff and guests to regularly share ideas and kai in a warm, communal space.

At our 2022 End of Year exhibition opening, the library/gallery was officially named the ‘Tony and Kirstin Arthur Library & Gallery’ with an official plaque which now adorns the door. This was to acknowledge Tony’s contribution to the arts and the school, and Kristin’s unwavering support of Tony’s dedication.

Tony was appointed to the Council of the Academy of Fine Arts in 1985 and elected president in 1988. In 1990 he took over the day-to-day running of the Academy at Buckle Street and the Academy Art School at Inverlochy - becoming in effect acting director of both. From 1988 to 1994 he was a trustee of the Dominion Museum and National Art Gallery and a member of the Council of the National Art Gallery.

In 1994 there was a disagreement amongst members of the Academy about the prospects and cost of operating the art school. A decision was made to close the school. At that point, Tony resigned as President of the Academy. With support from tutors and students and agreement from Sir Arthur Williams, the owner of the historic Inverlochy House, the school was reopened as an independent incorporated society operated as a not for profit charity. Tony led the committee of the new association and remained in various roles (several times as President) until he retired from the committee in 2006.

His commitment is proof of his unwavering tenacity, his compassion for others and his understanding of how important the arts are. Statistics show that creative industries such as Inverlochy strengthen community cohesion & a sense of belonging; increases one's confidence and helps define who we are; improves connections with diverse people; and contributes to life satisfaction, happiness and optimism for the future. Tony truly understood this. This was his gift and we are forever grateful.

Tony Arthur - 1932 - 12 May 2024