Newspaper Article 1973 – Art Gallery Supporter Dies at Havelock

Art gallery supporter dies at Havelock

A supporter of the Hawke’s Bay Art Gallery and Museum, Havelock North artist, Mrs Gwendolen Winifred Malden, died at her home in Te Mata Peak Rd, yesterday.

Mrs Malden, who was better known in art circles under her maiden name, Gwen Nelson, had been an artist member of the Art Gallery for many years.

She was a member of the governing body of the Hawke’s Bay Art Gallery and Museum and was made a life member some years ago.

Mrs Malden also gave financial support to the art gallery and museum.

She was one of the first students to graduate from the Ilam School of Fine Arts, Canterbury. She also studied art in London and on the Continent.

Her work was considered extremely good and several of her works are in the Hawke’s Bay Art Gallery and Museum’s collection.

She specialised in landscapes and still life and used both oils and water colours. Many of her paintings are of scenes on the East Coast.

Mrs Malden was not one to enter art competitions. She was modest about her artistic ability.

She was the daughter of the late Mr and Mrs Frank Nelson.

Mrs Malden, and her sister Miss A.R. Nelson owned Kereru Station and at one time also had the Big Hill Station.

Mrs Malden’s husband was the late Mr Henry William Malden.

She leaves her brother, Mr J.F. Nelson and sister, Miss A.R. Nelson, both of Havelock North.

A service for Mrs Malden will be held at “Taruna”, Te Mata Peak Road, Havelock North, on Saturday.