Philip Trusttum 1940 – 2026
Philip Trusttum
9 June 1940 – 4 March 2026
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Philip Trusttum. It has been both a privilege and a genuine pleasure to work with Phil and to share his practice with audiences.
Philip was born in 1940 in Raetihi, in the Manawatū-Whanganui region. In 1945, his family relocated to Canterbury, where he spent most of his life. His interest in art began at the age of 12 while attending painting lessons in Oxford. He later pursued formal study at the University of Canterbury School of Fine Arts, where he was taught by Rudolf Gopas, among others. Gopas became a significant influence on the young artist. Trusttum graduated in 1965 with a Diploma in Fine Arts.
It wasn’t long before Philip was exhibiting his works across Aotearoa, Australia, Europe and the United States, becoming recognised as one of Aotearoa’s most significant contemporary painters. He was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to art in 2021.
In his later years, Trusttum worked from a tin shed in central Christchurch, built after the 2011 earthquake destroyed the elegant home that once stood on the site. Philip brought extraordinary energy and wholehearted commitment to his work. He was always making – music playing from his CDs, brush in hand; his bold, expressive paintings often offered glimpses into his everyday life.
He was a generous mentor and inspiration to many artists, always welcoming visitors into his studio and sharing his passion for painting.
He will be greatly missed, not only by those who had the pleasure of knowing and working with him, but by the wider arts community across Aotearoa New Zealand.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.