Gallery director not retiring passion

• Author: Alyssa Smith
• Published date: 12 January 2022
• Publication title: Stratford Press

From starting as a volunteer at the gallery to becoming the gallery director, as well as exhibiting her own work in the gallery space and encouraging many other artists, both emerging and experienced, to do the same, Rhonda’s love of art has never waned

After six years as gallery director, Rhonda is now retiring from the role at the end of the month, but says she isn’t giving up her passion for either the gallery or art.

“I’ve put my heart and soul into this job but I know now is the right time to go. It’s better to leave a job while you still love it.”

She and her husband are moving to their property in Okato where Rhonda plans to spend more time on her own artistic endeavours.

“Laurence and I have a property there. I’ve moved a portable classroom on as my studio and will use the time to explore my own creativity in photography.”

Rhonda moved to Stratford from Whanganui 25 years ago and started volunteering at the Percy Thomson Art Gallery 10 years ago, becoming gallery director six years ago.

“I felt the gallery was a real asset for Stratford and...