A Potent Way of Talking - Book launch and fundraiser for Colin McCahon Legacy Project

24 July 2025 
Overview
Open a larger version of the following image in a popup: Colin McCahon and Ted Spring, lounge bar Kiwi Hotel, 1970. Photograph by Max Oettli
Colin McCahon and Ted Spring, lounge bar Kiwi Hotel, 1970. Photograph by Max Oettli
Gow Langsford Auckland City 28-36 Wellesley Street East, Auckland CBD 6pm – 7:30pm

Gow Langsford Gallery together with the Colin McCahon Legacy Project invite you to the launch of A Potent Way of Talking: Colin McCahon and the Urewera triptych by Hamish Coney on Thursday 24 July.

A Potent Way of Talking is a powerful new account of Colin McCahon’s landmark engagement with Te Urewera, Tūhoe history, and the spiritual legacy of Rua Kēnana and Te Kooti.

Tracing the story from McCahon’s original 1974 mural commission to the evolving understanding of the Urewera triptych, this richly researched book situates McCahon’s work within the context of Crown apologies, cultural reclamation, and the enduring importance of mana whenua.

The launch also supports the McCahon Legacy Project—a major initiative to significantly enhance the Colin McCahon database and website and make it more accessible, as a vital resource for researchers, curators, and collectors.

Generously, the publisher will be donating the proceeds from a select number of copies to the Colin McCahon Legacy Project’s fundraising initiative.

Join us to celebrate the book, the art, and the future of this essential taonga.

Thursday 24 July
6pm – 7:30pm
Gow Langsford City
Corner of Kitchener St and Wellesley St East (entrance off Kitchener St)

RSVP here to confirm your attendance and learn more about the project and upcoming events.