Published 1998 by Hazard Press, Christchurch.
156 pages
212 x 148mm, softcover, with black and white illustrations, and coloured plates.
Authored by Carol Henderson
ISBN 0-908790-93-7

Teacher, artists and poet Gordon Tovey was a remarkable man. Over more than three decades, as an art lecturer in Dunedin and then as national art supervisor for the Department of Education, he revolutionised the way art was taught in New Zealand schools, developing a freer, more expressive and experimental attitude in teachers and students alike. With a flair for generating interest and enthusiasm, he established, led and inspired a network of art specialists, who transformed the teaching of art and craft in schools throughout the country.

Tovey's interest and belief in the importance of Maori culture led to a special and very successful project in Northland schools. As a result of this initiative, Tovey discovered and nurtured the talents of such artists as Ralph Hotere, Cliff Whiting, John Bevan Ford and many others.

A colourful and dominating personality, who lived life to the full, Gordon Tovey was not always an easy man. In this lively illustrated biography, his daughter, Carol Henderson, draws on a wide variety of material, and her own intimate knowledge of her father, to build up a frank and fascinating portrait of a talented and influential New Zealander. A Blaze of Colour is a rich contribution to this country's understanding of its recent cultural past.