My Space: Auckland Art Gallery’s Kirsten Paisley takes a pause.

Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki director Kirsten Paisley on her favourite work spot

Describe the space: “The south atrium is the nexus of the gallery’s old building, the library, the Grey Galleries and the historic Mackelvie Gallery where the international collections are held. The adjoining staircase is surrounded in glass and links four floors of the gallery. The large glass panels look out onto Albert Park. It’s a respite space. We will have painted window commissions – eight to 12 months each. [John Reynolds’ The Violet Hour on show until May 2020 is the first installation.] The light will filter through, and there will be an interplay of light inside and out, with the park and the gallery and also with the park lit up at night.” What inspires you about this space? “It gives me a great sense of calm and pleasure to be in here. You’re able to reflect on what you’ve seen... a chance to pause before you move on. There’s an intensity between the old and the new collections; the older architecture and the new with its position on the corner of Albert Park, the gorgeous old trees hanging over the architecture.” Why did you choose this space? “The gallery’s main focus is New Zealand art and within that both historic and contemporary and Māori – it’s critical to how we use the space in the building, and in Auckland as well. I’m keen to develop major international programmes, to bring great collections of the world to New Zealand. The gallery has a major role to play in that. Auckland Art Gallery is also the main gallery in the country that has a commitment to developing its international collection. We also have a significant role to play in showcasing art of our region. We’re working with living artists on more fulsome projects for the major thoroughfares within the building – using the voids for large creative statements.”