When Alan Bramley of Te Rehunga, Dannevirke died in August, aged 89, he left a legacy of art works which are now up for sale in a silent auction run by For Homes, For Farms.
Alan drew from memories developed over his 89 years, many of those "in the bush" when he was deer culling. He took up painting late in life, having had some devastating criticism of his work by a teacher at school when 14 which snuffed out his early enthusiasm.
In the interim he crafted many items from kauri and other native timbers. A pair of wooden boots are in the auction.
In later life he found the need to put his experiences on canvas overcame that early setback.
He said he was really pleased he returned to painting because he said he sold a lot of his work which "helped pay the bills" and filled his days in a very "satisfying manner." Every painting has a story and he has lots to tell.
Alan Bramley's "Water Water" featuring a kingfisher on a partly submerged wheelbarrow was inspired by the Australian floods and he said he should have had added to the title "And Not a Fish To Catch".
He prefered the rustic style and latterly he liked to do misty scenes because "no-one else seemed to be doing them."
In recent years he sought to record his art and in particular the stories behind them, writing on the back of his art works in some detail. This gives an interesting insight into has thinking and vast store of experiences.
He painted extensively about his experience in the Korean War believing New Zealand troops never gained enough recognition for their role. Ten of these have been gifted to the Waiouru War Museum by the family but several remain for the auction.
Other paintings include landscapes, 19th century logging, farming, nature, family life and historic events.
There are 61 paintings for sale.
Those wishing to bid can view the Collection on Facebook at JR Boyden Auctions Ltd of Dannevirke.net where a bidding form can be downloaded.
The auction will conclude at 4pm on Thursday November 30. For any queries please contact Craig Boyden 027 443 2738 or Graeme Thomson 027 450 7681.