Story: City images

Napier renaissance

Napier renaissance

In 1931 Napier experienced a devastating earthquake and fire that destroyed the central city. Roland Hipkins' work 'Renaissance' (1932) depicts the aftermath: the sprouting tree fern by the ruined cathedral and the new art deco buildings symbolise renewal.

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Oil on canvas by Roland Hipkins

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How to cite this page:

Ben Schrader, 'City images - The city in art', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/artwork/25358/napier-renaissance (accessed 19 April 2024)

Story by Ben Schrader, published 11 Mar 2010