A community fundraising campaign is to be launched for the Sarjeant Gallery.
Wanganui District Mayor Annette Main said the campaign, called A Thousand Stars, would be launched at the gallery on Friday with the goal of raising $1 million in four years.
"A Thousand Stars is a programme designed toraise funds to continue the ongoing legacy of the Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua Whanganui", Ms Main said. "In 1912, Henry Sarjeant left his fortune to found a gallery 'for the inspiration of ourselves and those who come after us'.
"A century later, we're building on Henry's legacy, preserving and presenting over four centuries of art."
Wanganui District Council applied in early May to the Ministry of Culture and Heritage for funding of up to $10 million for an extension and earthquake strengthening for the gallery, a project which is expected to cost at least $22 million.
Ms Main said the campaign was a response to Wanganui people asking how they could contribute. Donors will be asked to give $5 a week or more over the next four years to the Sarjeant Redevelopment Fund, part of the Sarjeant Gallery Trust.
The council was seeking large sums from the Government and major philanthropic and corporate supporters, but the campaign enabled people to make a "major collective contribution to our national heritage".
To join the campaign, go to sarjeant.org.nz/1000stars or contact the gallery by phone on 06 349 0506.
