Philip Spencer Trusttum, a revered figure in New Zealand's art landscape, passed away on March 6, 2026, at the age of 85. Known for his vibrant, large-scale figurative expressionist works, Trusttum left an indelible mark on the art world with his energetic and colourful canvases. His prolific career spanned decades, during which he consistently explored themes drawn from everyday life, transforming them into semi-abstract compositions that captivated audiences both locally and internationally.

Born in Raetihi, New Zealand, on June 9, 1940, Trusttum's artistic journey began in earnest when he enrolled at the University of Canterbury School of Fine Arts. He graduated with a Diploma in Fine Arts in 1964, where he was significantly influenced by his tutor, Rudolf Gopas, who fostered his interest in expressionism. Early in his career, he became a member of The Group, an influential collective of Canterbury artists that included notable figures such as Colin McCahon and Toss Woollaston.

Trusttum's commitment to his craft was recognized early on. In 1967, he was awarded a prestigious Queen Elizabeth II Arts Council scholarship, which facilitated extensive travels to Australia, North America, and Europe. These international experiences broadened his artistic perspective and further fueled his unique approach to art-making. Despite an initial setback where many of his canvases were damaged during transit to Australia, he persevered, developing a distinctive style characterized by bold brushstrokes and a rich palette.

Throughout his career, Trusttum's subject matter was remarkably diverse, ranging from house renovations and gardening to tennis, horses, and Japanese masks. He had a remarkable ability to translate these mundane or personal experiences into dynamic and often humorous visual narratives, frequently presented from unexpected angles or in startling close-up. His works, typically executed on unstretched canvas, are celebrated for their uninhibited energy and vigour.

His international recognition grew steadily. In 1984, Trusttum participated in ANZART at the Edinburgh Arts Festival and held an exhibition on New York's 57th Street, which garnered a review in The New York Times. A significant milestone came in 2000 when he received the esteemed Pollock Krasner Foundation grant, making him only the second New Zealand artist to be bestowed with this honour. His paintings are held in all major public and many private collections across New Zealand.

In recognition of his profound contributions to art, Trusttum was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) in the 2021 Queen's Birthday Honours. Even in his later years, based in Christchurch where he maintained a dedicated studio, he remained prolific, continuing his daily studio sessions and producing multiple works that explored themes of daily existence and self-reflection.

Philip Trusttum will be remembered not only as one of New Zealand's finest painters but also as a passionate supporter of art and artists. His legacy is one of boundless creativity, an insatiable fascination with the world, and an enduring spirit that infused every canvas he touched. He leaves behind a prolific body of work that continues to inspire and resonate within the arts community.