November 19, 2025
The life and legacy of long-time Ashburton artist Margaret Trolove are being celebrated in a new exhibition at Rokowhiria, the Ashburton Art Gallery and Museum.
The Consider the Flowers exhibition honours Trolove(1925–2025) who was a valued member of the Ashburton Society of Arts (ASA) for more than six decades.
She became involved with the ASA early in her career, later winning the Ashburton Licensing Trust Art Award in 1990, and was made a life member in 2015 for her long service and support of local artists.
Her works, on display until November 30, showcase her delicate use of watercolour, ink and pastel, often inspired by the flowers and gardens she tended with care.
Speaking at the exhibition opening, close friend Lal Mulligan reflected on Trolove’s early life in Whanganui and Christchurch, and her artistic journey after settling in Ashburton with her husband, Graeme, at age 24.
“She was very generous with her work,” Mulligan said.
“A gift of flowers would often result in a little painting of the same flowers in return.”
Mulligan recalled Trolove’s favourite story of the Queen bowing to view her art during the royal visit to Ashburton in 1981 — a memory she cherished for decades.
Fellow ASA member Barbara Jaine also paid tribute, describing Trolove as a supportive presence in the society and a thoughtful friend.
“Margaret was always encouraging to other artists,” Jaine said.
“Her soft colours and dreamy landscapes were so gentle, but so carefully observed.”
The work in this exhibition demonstrates Margaret’s skilful handling of watercolour, ink and pastel in calm, patient works that reward attentive contemplation.
Finding inspiration in her beloved garden, they demonstrate her dedication to the floral still-life genre and facilitate an appreciation of the quiet beauty of everyday existence.
Consider the Flowers runs at Rokowhiria until November 30.
The life and legacy of long-time Ashburton artist Margaret Trolove are being celebrated in a new exhibition at Rokowhiria, the Ashburton Art Gallery and Museum.
The Consider the Flowers exhibition honours Trolove(1925–2025) who was a valued member of the Ashburton Society of Arts (ASA) for more than six decades.
She became involved with the ASA early in her career, later winning the Ashburton Licensing Trust Art Award in 1990, and was made a life member in 2015 for her long service and support of local artists.
Her works, on display until November 30, showcase her delicate use of watercolour, ink and pastel, often inspired by the flowers and gardens she tended with care.
Speaking at the exhibition opening, close friend Lal Mulligan reflected on Trolove’s early life in Whanganui and Christchurch, and her artistic journey after settling in Ashburton with her husband, Graeme, at age 24.
“She was very generous with her work,” Mulligan said.
“A gift of flowers would often result in a little painting of the same flowers in return.”
Mulligan recalled Trolove’s favourite story of the Queen bowing to view her art during the royal visit to Ashburton in 1981 — a memory she cherished for decades.
Fellow ASA member Barbara Jaine also paid tribute, describing Trolove as a supportive presence in the society and a thoughtful friend.
“Margaret was always encouraging to other artists,” Jaine said.
“Her soft colours and dreamy landscapes were so gentle, but so carefully observed.”
The work in this exhibition demonstrates Margaret’s skilful handling of watercolour, ink and pastel in calm, patient works that reward attentive contemplation.
Finding inspiration in her beloved garden, they demonstrate her dedication to the floral still-life genre and facilitate an appreciation of the quiet beauty of everyday existence.
Consider the Flowers runs at Rokowhiria until November 30.
