Roger Daniell

"During my professional career as a partner in an international firm, Id had little time to pursue my lifetime interest in painting. Any expression of interest in the activities of arts organisations found me landed with, for example, looking after the finances of the Wellington Centre Gallery, the Friends of the National Art Gallery or chairing the Wellington Community Arts Council.

It was after retirement, when Tony Arthur had co-opted me onto the council of the Academy of Fine Arts that I came to know the late Shona McFarlane. Shona took me aside one day with Roger, would you be interested in taking on the role of President of Wellington Watercolour from George Kernick - hed very much like to find someone to hand over to? This appealed, because although I had limited experience in watercolour, I was the son of Constance (Free) Daniell, who had been a regular watercolour exhibitor at the Academy between the two wars. I wasnt even a member of the Watercolour Society, although my interest in the medium had been renewed by the refreshing, exciting, exhibitions that Id seen at the Michael Fowler Centre during Vivian Manthels presidency. Only a limited number of paintings but, all of a consistently high standard: fresh, appealing ideas and colours."

Roger was delighted by the band of wise, energetic, multi-skilled people he found in the society. Peter McIntyre was patron and among his committee were Judith Trevelyan, Shona MacFarlane, Tui McLauchlan, Wendy Masters, Bob Bassant, Colin Allen, Liz Hall, Glenda Roberts, Melitta Hogg and Sylvia Meeks husband Allan was treasurer.

At that time membership was granted only to applicants whose work reached a required standard. Most of these painters were keen to express their varied personalities rather than just a technical ability with conventional landscapes, wrote Roger. During his presidency a policy of running two exhibitions per year was established and a suitable venue was located. Using the experience gleaned in professional life, Roger took pride in streamlining the operations of the committee. Special events were much appreciated by members and spouses: outdoor painting days around Wellington, wonderful weekends in Martinborough including hours painting the notable villas of the Wairarapa farming dynasties, gatherings at beach houses and, in winter, indoor painting days.

Roger: All in all, my two years as President was a very rewarding experience and I appreciated the support I received, along with the many lasting friendships made during that time.

Roger has been greatly respected for his passion and experience in the arts. He worked in a wide range of media and held a special love for watercolour. In 2019 he won the Supreme Award at our annual Splash exhibition for his painting, Salt Marsh Meadow and Mont Saint Michel. He exhibited in several countries and his paintings are held in a range of locations.

He was made a Life Member of Watercolour New Zealand. We are particularly grateful that he took the time last year to record a detailed account of his time as President, which rings with a buzz of enjoyment.

Please read 'Wellington Watercolour historical notes (PDF) written by Roger Daniell in 2022 . It comprises Roder's account of his time as President of the Wellington Watercolour Society from 1992-1994. The text, which includes photographs and scanned documents, outlines his introduction to the society; artist members; exhibitions; events and educational work; and the administration of the society.