Charles Frederick Goldie

Place: Auckland

Born: 1870

Death: 1947

Biography:

Early Life and Training

, a renowned New Zealand artist, was born on October 20, 1870, in Auckland. His maternal grandfather, Charles Frederick Partington, had built the iconic Auckland windmill. Goldie's father, David Goldie, was a prominent timber merchant and politician who served as the Mayor of Auckland. Goldie received his early education at Auckland Grammar School, where he showcased exceptional artistic talent, winning several prizes from the Auckland Society of Arts and the New Zealand Art Students' Association. He later studied art under Louis John Steele in Auckland before moving to Paris to attend the prestigious Académie Julian, where he honed his drawing and painting skills.

Artistic Career and Notable Works

Upon returning to New Zealand in 1898, Goldie established the "French Academy of Art" with Louis J. Steele. One of their collaborative works, The Arrival of the Māoris in New Zealand, based on Théodore Géricault's The Raft of the Medusa, garnered significant attention and launched Goldie's career. Goldie's subsequent work focused on portraying Māori dignitaries, with most subjects being elderly, tattooed individuals of high standing. His dedication to preserving Māori heritage earned him recognition and respect from both the Māori community and the art world.

• Charles Frederick Goldie's work can be found in various collections, including the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, which features his painting Portrait of a Māori Man Wearing a Hei-Tiki (View on Wikioo.org).
• Goldie's Portrait of a Māori Woman with a Taniko and Hei-Tiki is another notable example, showcasing his attention to detail and respect for Māori culture (View on Wikioo.org).
• His work has also been recognized by the New Zealand government, with Goldie being awarded the King George V Silver Jubilee Medal in 1935 and appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire for his services to art.

Legacy and Later Life

Goldie's health declined due to lead poisoning from his painting materials, leading to a reduction in his output. He eventually stopped painting altogether in 1941 and passed away on July 11, 1947, at the age of 77. Today, Charles Frederick Goldie's legacy endures as a testament to his dedication to preserving Māori culture through art. His work continues to be celebrated and studied by art enthusiasts and scholars alike, offering a unique window into New Zealand's rich cultural heritage. View Charles Frederick Goldie's Artworks on Wikioo.org