Information on Robert Gant

Robert Gant's life and work offers a unique insight into the social and cultural fabric of late 19th and early 20th century New Zealand. Born in Woolwich, London, in 1854, Gant moved to New Zealand in 1876, settling in Wellington and later moving to the Wairarapa region. His journey from England to New Zealand marked the beginning of a life that would intertwine the arts, community involvement, and a subtle exploration of homoeroticism through photography.

In Wellington, Gant found a vibrant life in the arts. He was particularly active in the local theatre scene, where he often took on female roles. His involvement in theatre extended beyond acting, as he was also known for directing local theatrical groups. This experience in the arts would profoundly shape his photographic work, which became his most enduring legacy.

Gant's move to Masterton in the Wairarapa region in 1882 marked a new chapter in his life. There, he continued his work as a chemist, but his artistic pursuits remained a central part of his life. He was actively involved in the local community, contributing to various clubs and societies, and was well-regarded for his extensive voluntary work. His community involvement was so notable that, upon his brief return to England in 1891, the local newspaper lauded his unwavering dedication to charitable causes.

Photography was Gant's primary artistic outlet, and through it, he explored themes of male friendship and homoeroticism. His photographs from the 1880s and 1890s are a window into the lives of middle-class men in New Zealand during that era. These images challenge the stereotypical notions of stoic, unemotional masculinity, often depicting men in close physical proximity, displaying a comfort with touch and intimacy. Gant's work invites a reevaluation of the boundaries between male friendship and eroticism in a time when such concepts were not clearly defined.

Gant's photography also carried undertones of spiritual and classical themes, sometimes portraying his subjects in religious or mythological settings. This approach offered a socially acceptable way to explore and express same-sex attraction. Gant's use of such themes aligns with a broader international trend among photographers who sought to express homoeroticism through nuanced visual narratives.

After a few years in England, Gant returned to New Zealand, setting up a chemist shop in Greytown. He continued to engage in local arts and community activities, writing a comedy for the stage and a short story that won a competition. These works, like his photographs, often contained subtle references to homoeroticism and male beauty.

In the latter part of his life, Gant settled in Wellington with his partner, Charlie Haigh. The two shared a home and a life filled with artistic and cultural pursuits. Gant's photographs from this period continue to reflect his interest in religious and classical imagery, and his relationship with Haigh is evident in many of these works. Gant's death in 1936 marked the end of a life that had significantly contributed to the cultural landscape of New Zealand.

The legacy of Robert Gant is preserved in his photographs, which are housed in various collections, including the Alexander Turnbull Library and the Wairarapa Archive. These images are a testament to his artistic vision and offer a rare glimpse into the complexities of male relationships and homoeroticism in a time and place far removed from modern understandings of sexuality and gender identity. His work remains an important part of New Zealand's LGBTI history, capturing a world where expressions of male friendship and affection transcended the rigid norms of Victorian society.

Further information can be found at:

• teara.govt.nz
• pridenz.com