Greta Henry came to Russell with her husband Peter in the 1980s, to retire and enjoy life after sampling it in the 1970s while helping her niece Gill Jones run the Gables. Her vibrant watercolours reflect this vividly. She was self taught and she loved Russell, the mix of old buildings, native trees, locals and visitors. She loved people and met many through being a museum volunteer. Kauri Cottage, on the corner of Matauwhi Road, was Greta and Peter’s home. It was a place of hospitality and a great place to view the Russell world from. After Greta’s death in the UK in 1994, Gill brought her Russell watercolours back to Russell Museum. Not only are they joyful to look at, they also provide an important historical record of our ever changing town.
We are delighted to have Greta Henry represented in our current exhibition “MADE IN RUSSELL”.
Please make time to come in and view the exhibition soon.
Sources: Russell Review 1999-2000
