Peter Peryer ONZM, 1941–2018
New Zealand photographer Peter Peryer passed away on Sunday 18 November aged 77.
Originally a teacher, Peter took up photography in his 30s. Renowned for his critical eye, Peter’s works are widely collected. They are held in all major art institutions in New Zealand, and in international ones including the Bibliotheque Nationale in Paris and the Australian National Gallery in Canberra. Peter was a Fulbright Scholar and received a number of residencies and fellowships. He was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to photography in 1997 and became one of five inaugural Arts Foundation Laureates in 2000.
‘Peter was cheeky; he had an enormous laugh that filled the room. He was a brilliant photographer, clever, constructive and with a depth of purpose,’ wrote Simon Bowden of the Arts Foundation. He described Peter as an exceptional photographer, a great storyteller, and a friend and supporter who will be missed.