Behind the Canvas

An accessible handbook that demystifies the aura surrounding the New Zealand art market. Written by an experienced and accomplished  dealer and gallery owner, it traces the history of art in this country, and the emergence of the art boom in the 1970s and 80s. 

The market for art has continued to grow surprisingly quickly and the author tells some amusing anecdotes and stories about art and artists, many of whom are now household names. In his view, it’s still possible to start small and purchase art that will increase in value. He urges people to become knowledgeable about the art they like, and to explore the market, scouring second-hand shops, attending gallery openings and visiting public galleries. He provides practical detail about buying and selling art through auctions, galleries and online, how to avoid fakes and forgeries and what you need to know about looking after paintings. 

The book is well illustrated throughout with New Zealand artworks, including a four-page selection of contemporary art around the galleries.  Well respected art commentator Hamish Keith has written the foreword for this exciting new handbook. 


Warwick Henderson embarked at first on a career in shipping, but through a series of coincidences found himself rubbing  shoulders with artists and auctioneers, who nurtured his interest in the art world. In 1986 he set up an award-winning gallery in Parnell. Over the years his gallery has hosted more than 250 exhibitions for leading New Zealand artists. He is also a licensed auctioneer. Since 1985 Warwick has written on art, antiques and collectibles for magazines including Home and Building, Kia Ora, Personal Investor, Carters Antique Magazine (Australia) and Antique Toy World (USA). He regularly prepares catalogues for his gallery. He lives with his family in Auckland.