John Baillie was a key figure in the establishment of New Zealand’s national art collection in the first decades of the twentieth century. He was a unique combination of gifted artist and astute businessman. As a young artist, he travelled from New Zealand to London, where he created a respected dealer gallery. On the basis of his work experience and knowledge of British painting, Baillie was commissioned to organise two substantial art exhibitions that toured New Zealand. From these, the Wellington public purchased paintings and prints as a foundation for a national collection of art. This paper aims to provide an appreciation and acknowledgement of Baillie’s talents, in particular his commitment to the promotion of art in New Zealand.

John Baillie, artist, businessman, exhibition, dealer gallery, dedication, national art collection, recognition.