Native Wit

by keith-hamish

Legendary art commentator Hamish Keith returned to much-deserved national attention last year when his television series and accompanying (Godwit) book THE BIG PICTURE seized the imagination of New Zealanders. The high-rating show and bestselling book rekindled fresh enthusiasm for the complex and fascinating story of our art heritage and cemented Keith's stature as one of our most engaging, confronting and witty cultural commentators. NATIVE WIT, Keith's witty, revealing memoir, gives readers an insight into his well-lived, rich and immensely varied life. Whether as a confrere of Colin McCahon, the chairman of the Arts Council, husband of Oscar-winning film costume designer Ngila Dickson, bon vivant and accomplished chef or arch enemy of doddering bureaucrats, Keith has a dynamic personality and a trenchant analysis that makes him a pleasure to read.

361 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[Anne Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting account of a life, and life in the arts in NZ, from the 30s onwards. Keith's depictions of society, our ways of thinking and interacting during the mid / late twentieth century resonated, in hindsight very much a western male centered view of the world, opportunities provided for lads and wags with attitude and personality (hence the appropriateness of the "gets by on native wit unsupported by hard work" quote) with women and other cultures largely in support roles or providing "curiosity" content. It all seemed normal at the time, now sometimes cringe-worthy in hind sight. Hamish Keith seemingly becoming very aware of that and willing to influence for the better. I have been aware of Hamish Keith as a NZ personality and art commentator for many years but never really understood the roles he played within the politics and administration of the arts scene - appreciated his contribution far more after reading this account - no doubt many of his projects, positions and contributions did require a reasonable amount of "hard work" at times throughout his career. I was inspired to dig out one episode of the Big Picture from NZ TV archives and wish I could have found more as I enjoyed watching it.

[Jo Chester · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed this read on the Arts and our position as a country in the Pacific from the 1950's to now, seen through the eyes and life of Hamish Keith.