ArtBeat
An exhibition that showcases architectural drawings from the collections of Macmillan Brown Library and Tūranga. Cecil Walter Wood was born in Christchurch, 6 June 1878, and at the age of 12 was awarded a state scholarship to attend classes at Canterbury College School of Art.
Wood studied architecture under Samuel Hurst Seager, who introduced him to Arts and Crafts principles and practices. From 1906 he became a junior partnership with architect Hurst Seager in Christchurch, domestic work comprising the bulk of his early commissions. Wood's professional prominence was acknowledged when he was commissioned to design the Hare Memorial Library for Christ's College, leading to his approach to design in his large commercial buildings in Christchurch.
The majority of Wood's churches, were designed in a Gothic manner with English Arts and Crafts influences. His personal example made an indelible impact on every architect who worked in his office, including Paul Pascoe and Miles Warren. The exhibition is a partnership between CCL, UC Libraries, and UC Art History Department. (The text acknowledges Ruth M. Helms. 'Wood, Cecil Walter', Dictionary of New Zealand Biography, 1998. https://teara.govt.nz/en/biographies/4w25/wood-cecil-walter )
IMAGE Worcester Chambers, Worcester Street. Exterior of the Worcester Chambers, designed by Cecil Wood, at 69 Worcester Street. Harley Chambers is visible on the right hand side. Rosemary Spiewak collection. CC BY-NC-ND 4.0. CCL-DW-59651