can I get a woop woop?

Mark Amery's visual arts review for the Dominion Post is back!
His first column since being axed for "budgetary reasons" last October is a review of Ronnie van Hout at Te Papa's sculpture terrace and slipped seamlessly into Wednesday's art section this week. As before, it has been reprinted online on The Big Idea for the readership's inter-geographic edification.
Mark had previously maintained his column for over 5 years, and it is great to see its return. His even-handed criticism is an important part of Wellington's art life and ensures that discussion of projects here extends beyond private conversations.

On leaving Mark said: "What I am more concerned about, and the major reason I write is that this will see a major New Zealand city without any form of art criticism or discussion in its major newspaper. I do believe that the newspaper takes heed of its readership and would suggest letters to the editor should be encouraged if this concerns you or friends and colleagues."

It is true that the Wellington art community bombarded the arts editor with letters.... I'm not sure if it was that, or the biting criticism Kim Hill gave the newspaper in her interview with Mark, or if they just missed him around the traps. It matters not now...

Image: United Kingdom, celebrating victory in Europe, May 8, 1945 (I realise it's a stretch to liken victory over the oppressors of WWII and our small victory over woodenheaded-ness)