Rokowhiria, the Ashburton Art Gallery and Museum, is honoured to be showcasing the work of Margaret Trolove, a long-standing and valued member of Ashburton's artistic community.

Consider the Flowers, an exhibition showcasing the work of Margaret Trolove (1925–2025), opened recently with an evening of celebration.

Margaret was a valued member of the Ashburton Society of Arts (ASA), and it was through the society that she embraced painting as a life-long passion. She was the winner of a top prize in 1990, as the joint recipient of the Ashburton Licensing Trust Art Award at the ASA’s 26th Annual Exhibition.

The work in this exhibition demonstrates Margaret’s skilful handling of watercolour, ink and pastel in calm, patient works that reward attentive contemplation. Finding inspiration in her beloved garden, they demonstrate her dedication to the floral still-life genre and facilitate an appreciation of the quiet beauty of everyday existence.

Gathering approximately 50 visitors, the opening night was an opportunity for Margaret’s family and friends, as well as the community of Ashburton, to see a collection of her floral paintings.

Lal Mulligan, close friend of Margaret, spoke at the opening and described her upbringing in Whanganui and Ōtautahi Christchurch. She noted that Margaret’s parents, Dr Arthur Nelson and Maggie Nelson, were both art lovers, and they had many discussions each year before the annual purchasing of new paintings. "Her upbringing meant she was exposed to music, art, and the finer things of life."

After moving to Ōtautahi in 1936, Margaret attended Elmwood School and St Margaret’s College, before settling in Ashburton with her husband, Graeme, at the age of 24.

Lal spoke of Margaret’s love of art, noting that she was very generous with her work, often gifting paintings, cards and other pieces to family and friends. A gift of flowers would often result in a little painting of the same flowers in return.

Recalling when Queen Elizabeth visited Ashburton in 1981, Lal said Margaret loved to recount how the Queen had bowed to her when she viewed her art. "The Arts Society were painting for the Royalty as they walked through the Ashburton Domain, and a photo appeared in the Guardian of the queen bending down to view Margaret’s work… it was a story she often told."

Lal described Margaret as a very kind, thoughtful person with a delightful sense of humour. "But beneath her slender, fragile-looking exterior was a woman of quiet strength."

She said Margaret practised art without fanfare. "Her work draws your eye to find details that, at first glance, are not apparent. Such soft colours and dreamy landscapes are so gentle, but carefully observed. She was the recipient of many awards that were a testament to her great talent."

These awards were also mentioned by Barbara Jaine, patron and life-long member of the Ashburton Society of Arts, when she spoke of Margaret’s involvement with the society, of which she had been a member for most of its 60-plus years. Alongside winning a variety of merit awards for her work displayed in ASA exhibitions, she was also gifted life membership in 2015 for her 60 years of ongoing support of the society.’

Barbara also noted that Margaret was always helpful and encouraging to other artists and thanked her for her generosity.

She recalled the art classes they took together on weekends: "One class I remember well – the tutor, Paul Vanderberg, had a pet dislike for what he called Ashburton Purple. He particularly picked on Kath von Tunzelmann and Margaret for their use of purple. Well, Margaret, I think you used it very well."

Consider the Flowers will be on display until 30 November.

Gallery & Museum Hours:
Open Daily 10am – 4pm
Open Wednesday 10am – 7pm

Below: Untitled, by Margaret Trolove, date unknown; watercolour and pastel on paper.