The CD combines interactive text and commentary, as well as audio and video interviews and numerous historical and contemporary works, to provide a comprehensive study of the process behind a finished artwork. The work of seven New Zealand artists: Paul Chapman, Kate Rivers, Barry Cleavin, Simon Edwards, Colin Luxton, Michael Reed and Catherine Manchester is examined in depth, with the artists themselves discussing their personal creative processes.

Project Coordinator and Gallery Schools Officer, Judith Hoult says the programme has been designed specifically for senior secondary students, but will be useful for all practical art students.

"As a discovery experience it will create a greater understanding of how works of art are made and serve as a model for the students' own practice," says Judith Hoult.

"The material will be equally instructive for teachers at all levels, allowing them to apply the processes described in the CD with their own students."

According to Ms. Hoult, the CD ROM grew out of the demand for the Gallery's Canterbury Art on Tour education programme, a series of panels that illustrate artists' work processes, which has been visiting Christchurch schools for the past two years.

"The response to Art on Tour has been overwhelmingly positive from both teachers and students," says Judith Hoult.

"Recently, we've had a number of requests for the programme from outside Christchurch but have been unable to expand our coverage using the panels. A multimedia version means we can now provide international access to this resource."

The artwork revealed CD is PC and Mac compatible and was designed to operate within the computer capabilities of most schools. Individual copies and special group packages will be available in February next year, although the Gallery is already accepting advance orders.

"Providing educational resources that appeal to a broad audience will be a key component of activity at the new Christchurch Art Gallery, both within the Gallery and in the community," says Robert McDougall Art Gallery Manager of Public Programmes, Ronnie Kelly.

"We hope that by providing interesting and challenging material like the artwork revealed we can entertain and inspire a new generation of artists and art enthusiasts."

The artwork revealed CD ROM is available from 1 February at $39.95. For schools inquiries and information about group purchase discounts, please contact: Judith Hoult, phone (03) 941 6973 judith.hoult@ccc.govt.nz.

The Robert McDougall Art Gallery will host the artists and creators of the artwork revealed CD ROM at a special staff presentation at the Gallery on Monday December 17th at 9:00 am in the "workspace," off the Centre Court. All media are welcome to attend.