Russell Clark: The City Hotel Gold Rush Murals
Monday, 1 June 2026 12:00am - Thursday, 30 July 2026 12:00am
Don't miss this rare opportunity to see one of New Zealand's most remarkable works of public art — right here in the heart of Central Otago.
In 1936, celebrated New Zealand artist Russell Clark painted 28 extraordinary panels for Dunedin's City Hotel, bringing the drama, humour, and adventure of the 1860s Central Otago gold rush vividly to life.
The panels survived a hotel fire and decades in storage before finding their permanent home at Central Stories in Alexandra — and the landscape Clark painted with such wit and energy is the very one you are standing in.
Bold, colourful, and full of life, these works follow an adventurous Scotsman and his loyal dog as they race to the goldfields, brave the elements, and outwit a band of outlaws — all set against the stunning scenery of the region you are exploring today.
The exhibition is accompanied by a children's book, Dougal is a Hero!, by local author Pauline Cartwright, available for purchase at the gallery — a perfect Central Otago souvenir for young visitors.
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