Creative New Zealand : Craft/Object news feed

New Zealanders support for the arts is strong: survey results revealed

Mon, 28 May 2012 22:52:52 +1200

New Zealanders continue to enjoy and support the arts despite the difficult economic environment, according to Creative New Zealand’s latest survey.

Most New Zealanders (80%) agree the arts help define who we are as New Zealanders. Engagement in the arts also remains strong, with 85% of New Zealanders attending or being actively involved in the arts in the past 12 months.

The results are included in Creative New Zealand’s triennial survey, New Zealanders and the Arts: Attitudes, Attendance and Participation in 2011.

‘’As a nation we continue to value the arts highly and young New Zealanders, in particular, gain a strong sense of wellbeing from being creative,’’ says Creative New Zealand’s Chief Executive, Stephen Wainwright.

‘’This is despite the devastating Christchurch earthquakes and the difficult economic climate, both creating challenges for the arts sector.’’

The triennial survey also revealed some new findings:

Young New Zealanders are increasingly involved in the arts: four out of five young Kiwis (80%) like to do at least one creative arts activity in their spare time. And the arts makes them feel good about themselves, with nearly half (46%) saying they feel “brilliant” when being creative and a further third (38%) saying they feel “really good”.
Young New Zealanders rate being creative as a favourite pastime (80%), ahead of playing computer or video games (77%) and alongside watching TV and DVDs (80%).
Online engagement with the arts has grown significantly. In 2011, 51% of New Zealanders watched a performance or looked at art online, compared to 38% in 2008. This had a flow-on effect for attendance at live events, with 23% of online arts viewers attending the live event as a result, compared to just 15% in 2008.
Māori and Pacific arts events appeal to a broad range of New Zealanders. Almost three-quarters (74%) of those who attended a Māori arts event in the past 12 months did not identify as Māori and 88% of people who attended a Pacific arts event did not identify as from a Pacific Island ethnic group. “This strong interest in Māori and Pacific arts reflects both our changing demographics and who we are as a nation,’’ said Mr Wainwright.

New Zealanders and the Arts: Attitudes, Attendance and Participation in 2011 aims to provide insights that help the arts community and its supporters identify new trends in a changing environment and take up new opportunities. The research was conducted by independent research company Colmar Brunton and involved just over 3300 New Zealanders. It builds on previous research in 2005 and 2008.

More facts and figures:

The market for arts and culture in New Zealand is large, with 95% of those surveyed saying that they have been to at least one cultural event within the last three years – compared to 87% in Australia and 85% in the United Kingdom according to similar surveys in those countries.
Attendance at arts events in Christchurch has been severely affected by the earthquakes, with two-thirds of Christchurch residents saying they attend the arts less frequently.
Ninety percent of Christchurch people agree that arts and culture are vital to the re-building of the city, and 94% agree it is important for the city to be recognised for excellence in the arts.

A full report of the national results is available now at:

www.creativenz.govt.nz/nzersandthearts2011

The 2008 report is also available.

For further information and interview requests, please contact:

Rebecca Lancashire
Senior Communications Adviser
Creative New Zealand|
04 498 0725
027 677 8070
Rebecca.Lancashire@creativenz.govt.nz

Watch the launch video

Vodafone Foundation Canterbury Fund

Fri, 25 May 2012 20:18:35 +1200

What’s it all about?

The Vodafone Foundation Canterbury Fund was established in partnership with the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal Trust in 2011, to support the rebuilding of Christchurch. The aim is to make a positive, long term difference within Christchurch communities and be agile and flexible as needs emerge. Supporting youth is a major theme of the fund.

The Fund totals $4 million dollars with the first $1 million contributed by the Vodafone Group Foundation, the second $1 million contributed by the Vodafone NZ business and $2 million matched by the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal Trust.

Small Grants

In 2012 grants of between $5,000 and $50,000 will be made available for youth focused projects and capital/infrastructure projects.

more information

More about eligibility and how to apply on the vodafone website.

The Clark Collection/Creative New Zealand Scholarship Winner Announced

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 14:15:21 +1200

Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister Christopher Finlayson has named Greg Donson as The Clark Collection/Creative New Zealand Scholar for 2012. Mr Finlayson said he was delighted to announce the 2012 Scholar as the Scholarship is a partnership which enhances New Zealand's body of expertise in the decorative arts and built heritage.

“The Clark Collection/Creative NZ Scholarship is the generous gift of Mr Errol Clark, a New Zealand financier, art connoisseur and heritage advocate,” said Mr Finlayson.

“Mr Clark’s support of The Clark Collection/Creative NZ Scholarship provides an opportunity for New Zealand professionals in the built heritage and decorative arts field to expand their knowledge through attending the prestigious Attingham Trust Summer School in England. The Scholarship also offers the recipients a number of short internships with organisations such as English Heritage, The National Trust, the Victoria & Albert Museum and The Royal Collection.”

“Creative New Zealand is providing significant support for the Scholarship as part of its grant programme towards professional development for arts practitioners. The Scholarship is facilitated and administered by Museums Aotearoa. This collaborative partnership makes such a comprehensive study programme possible.”

Greg Donson is Curator and Public Programmes Manager at the Sarjeant Gallery in Wanganui, where he is responsible for the development, implementation and management of the Gallery's exhibition programme. With a collection of over 5500 items spanning four centuries of European and New Zealand art, Greg is enthusiastic about bringing new insight back to his role at the Sarjeant Gallery as a result of the scholarship.

The Sarjeant Gallery opened in 1919. It has a Category 1 Historic Places Trust rating and is one of New Zealand's oldest purpose-built galleries, renowned for its neo-classical interiors and its nationally significant collection.

“With the support of Mr Clark, Creative New Zealand and Museums Aotearoa, this Scholarship is advancing the body of expertise on the decorative arts and built heritage in New Zealand,” said Mr Finlayson. “Now in its ninth year, previous Scholars are building on their Attingham experience, and making significant contributions in their fields.”

Recent recipients are Justine Olsen (2010), Decorative Arts Curator at Te Papa, Josephine Hughes (2009), Design Team Leader at Hawke's Bay Museum and Art Gallery, Priscilla Pitts (2008), General Manager Heritage Destinations at NZ Historic Places Trust, Claire Regnault (2007), then Concept Development Manager at The Dowse and now History Curator at Te Papa, and Robyn Notman (2006), Public Programmes Manager at Dunedin Public Art Gallery. In 2011 textile historian Annabel Westman, former Director of Studies at the Attingham Summer School, visited New Zealand at the invitation of Museums Aotearoa. Ms Westman shared her expertise through conference presentations and several very well-attended public lectures.

Dowse announces 2012 Blumhardt Curatorial Intern

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 10:19:50 +1200

Auckland's Ane Tonga is the fifth recipient of the Blumhardt Foundation's Curatorial Internship funded by Creative New Zealand.

A legacy of New Zealand potter Dame Doreen Blumhardt's commitment to arts education, the internship provides a rare opportunity for an aspiring curator to develop their skills alongside professional museum staff, in a contemporary gallery setting. Ane will begin work part-time at The Dowse in May, under the mentorship of Senior Curator, Emma Bugden.

Ane's interest is in the distinction between decorative arts and contemporary art, questioning the value of the object; the basis for her potential exhibition at The Dowse – and her drive to pursue curatorial and public planning roles.

"I am really excited about moving to Wellington and working with The Dowse," says Ane. "My project, while very early in its inception, will investigate taking objects beyond the purely aesthetic; and exploring the intangible values embedded in them."

Ane at 23-years-old is a recent graduate of Auckland University's Elam School of Fine Arts. She is proud to have fulfilled her Tongan-born parents' dream of their children pursuing higher education opportunities in New Zealand.

For three years while studying, Ane worked as a Tuakana Mentor for Maori and Pacific students at Elam. She currently works as Deputy Supervisor at the TSB Wallace Arts Centre, and previously at FHE Galleries.

"We are delighted to welcome Ane to our family of Blumhardt interns," says Kaye McKinley, Chair of the Blumhardt Foundation.

"As previous winners have demonstrated, the internship is a valuable opportunity for career development in the competitive and highly specialised curatorial field."

The 2011 Blumhardt intern was Lily Hacking, now curator of the Hirschfeld Gallery at City Gallery Wellington. Lily's exhibition A View From Where I was Sleeping runs until 22 July at The Dowse. It features works made in collaboration, often forged from friendships between artists.

The Dowse Art Museum, 45 Laings Rd, Lower Hutt, www.dowse.org.nz www.facebook.com/thedowseartmuseum

Do you know how well your online marketing is doing?

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 16:11:54 +1300

**"I know half my advertising isn't working, I just don't know which half." Lord Leverhulme**

Marketers in the cultural sector are hungry for advice and data that guides them in how to set relevant targets and evaluate their marketing success, or otherwise.

Responses to scoping research conducted last year for Optimise – Creative New Zealand’s online marketing capability building programme showed that:

almost half of respondents were not yet tracking online marketing activity
fewer than 20% of organisations were using the available data to make marketing decisions that might improve RoI or effectiveness

To improve online marketing practice, Creative New Zealand is inviting you to be part of a groundbreaking project, Optimiser, that will give you tangible information about your current online marketing activity’s success. Optimiser will provide you with the data and evidence to make smart decisions about your marketing investments.

Optimiser is a pilot project that will collect online marketing data for the arts sector and develop benchmarks to allow you to compare your results against other New Zealand arts organisations for the first time. Optimiser will be led by respected arts marketing consultants Vicki Allpress Hill of The Audience Connection and Tim Roberts of ARTS Australia and will use real data from organisations to answer six burning questions heard regularly from New Zealand arts managers:

ARE WE OPTIMISED? Are we doing as well online as we should or could be?
WHAT SELLS TICKETS?Which online activity results in the most ticket sales?
COMMENCING A RELATIONSHIP:What should my acquisition activity look like?
GOING MOBILE:How should we adapt to mobile trends?
WHAT’S MY EMAIL RoI?Is my email marketing hitting the mark?

6. BEYOND SALES:How valuable is our social media activity?

Project Leader, Vicki Allpress Hill of the Audience Connection, says that “We consistently see a desire for comparative benchmarks expressed at workshops and seminars within the sector in New Zealand. Online marketing benchmarks, and the lack of them, remain a key issue for the cultural sector in New Zealand.”

Issues include:

limited knowledge within arts organisations of how to use analytics tools to extract meaningful data upon which to base decisions
confusion around how to evaluate success
a lack of standardisation of online analytics tools being used across the sector

Optimiser is a pilot online marketing benchmarking study – the first of its kind in the arts sector in New Zealand. An extension of the ongoing Optimise programme, the study offers an opportunity for fine-tuning of online marketing in the arts to enhance drivers and reduce barriers to attendance.

New Zealandarts organizations and venues are invited to be an Optimiser. Project participants will receive a number of benefits that will help them to be a better online marketer:

We’ll check that your online analytics are set up correctly to measure your activity.
You’ll receive a tailored report about your online marketing results and how they compare to the sector. Your data will remain confidential. It will go into an aggregated pool and be segmented to be included in comparisons relevant to your business.
We’ll run a free Facebook advertising campaign for you
You’ll learn how to read, interpret and act on your online marketing analytics.

To participate you must meet the simple criteria outlined at Optimiser and complete the easy online sign-up form no later than Monday 2 April 2012. Participants will be accepted in order of application, so the sooner you apply, the more chance you have of being a part of the project.

This is an internationally unique project and is the first time we will have sector-wide benchmarks specifically relevant to New Zealand arts organisations. Don’t miss this opportunity to be included and have access to real online measures you can use.

Smart talk - Why Give? The Art of Philanthropy

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 10:24:17 +1300

Why Give? is an opportunity to hear directly from three Aucklanders who have shown generosity to our city that will last beyond their lifetimes.

Leading current affairs journalist Mark Crysell will facilitate a conversation with arts patron and philanthropist Dayle Mace, visual arts charitable trustee Sue Gardiner and education benefactor Gretchen Goldwater about philanthropy, its challenges and the immense satisfaction that comes from their giving.

The evening will also provide a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes with Museum curators to see how bequests and philanthropic giving have shaped the Museum.

GALS choir will perform and light refreshments will be served.

The Museum Circle and Philanthropy New Zealand are proud to partner this event.

Please RSVP rsvp@aucklandmuseum.com or phone 306 7031

Read about other events at the Auckland Museum

Creative New Zealand honours the people of Canterbury

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 09:14:31 +1300

Kua taka te wā, kua huri te tau. Kei te tangi mātou o Toi Aotearoa ki ngā mate kua hinga i te rū whenua i Ōtautahi me ō rātou whānau e tangi haehae ana i te mamae i tēnei rā whakamaumahara. Kei te mōteatea ngā mahara mō rātau kua hinga rā, kua rere ki te kāhui rangatira, te kahui o Pūaka. Nā reira moe mai rā.

Creative New Zealand pays deep respect to the people of Canterbury on the anniversary of the earthquake that devastated its people, places and spirit.

Our immediate thoughts go to those who suffered great personal tragedy in the loss of loved ones, a year ago today.

During the months of slow and steady rebuild, we have seen many people fight to keep the arts alive. Communities throughout Canterbury have turned to the arts to express their grief and loss and to lift their spirits.

There have been many voices calling for a place for the arts in Christchurch’s future. Creative New Zealand stands firmly beside them and pledges its continued support to the arts community.

We commend and honour your spirit of resilience, especially on this day of remembrance.

Talente: One Year On

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 17:06:48 +1300

Objectspace is delighted to present Talente: One Year On - an exciting installation to be held in the Objectspace Window Gallery, Auckland.

The exhibition will showcase the new work of 2011 Talente exhibitors Rachel Bell, Corrina Hoseason, Sam Kelly, Flora Sekanova, and Anzac Tasker.

These five makers and designers were selected to represent New Zealand at Talente in Germany in 2011.

Talente is one of Europe’s most prestigious showcases for emerging talent in design, craft, and technology from all over the world. New Zealand’s representation at Talente is funded directly by Creative New Zealand as a key international strategy for New Zealand craft and design.

Situated in a huge exhibition and events center, Talente takes place as a special exhibition at the major International Trade Fair in Munich, Germany in March of each year. It is one of four exhibitions that is organised and funded by the Handwerkskammer fur Munchen und Oberbayern, the others being Exempla, Schmuck and Meister der Moderne.

Talente: One Year On will give its New Zealand audience a chance to see some of the outstanding work that was presented by these New Zealand makers at Talente 2011 through displaying a large scale photograph of this work, as well as showcasing what these five makers have been working on in the past year since they were at Talente – one year on.

Maker Corrina Hoseason states, “One year on, attending Talente is still proving to be a pivotal experience that continues to benefit my practice.”

The significance of Talente for young New Zealand makers and designers:

Contemporary jeweller Rachel Bell has just completed a Masters of Design by Project at Unitec, Auckland (2011), and was included in the exhibition Touch Pause Engage at Keeper Gallery, Sydney (2010) and Objectspace (2011).

"Showing at and attending Talente was an incredible opportunity to view a huge range of high quality jewellery and applied art works while meeting the people involved in this industry around the world" said Rachel, "this experience fuelled major changes in my thinking and making".

Ceramicist Corrina Hoseason will undertake a residency at the prestigious European Ceramic Work Centre in the Netherlands this year, and has been invited to exhibit work at Gallerie Handwerk, Munich, Germany.
"One year on, attending Talente is still proving to be a pivotal experience that continues to benefit my practice" Corrina said, "being given the opportunity to accompany my work to Germany allowed me to sample trends, techniques and opportunities half a world away, encouraging me to take a more international approach when considering my work."

Contemporary jeweller Sam Kelly is part of the international Handshake, Prentice and Prodigy project between 12 New Zealand jewellery graduates and the heroes that inspire them, and has exhibited throughout New Zealand and Australia. Sam recalled, "Talente was by far the biggest opportunity and experience of my life so far. To find out how the jewellery machine works and what each of the components are made up of. To meet the other jewellers, who I consider Superstars. To see more jewellery in one sitting than I ever had before and will again".

Contemporary jeweller Flora Sekanova received second prize at the prestigious Objective Art Awards (2011), and won the Supreme Art Award of Rodney District Council in 2010.

Graphic designer Anzac Tasker was awarded the Urbis Future designer of the year in 2010 and won a number of awards at New Zealand’s Best Awards including the gold for his student entry in 2010. He currently works fulltime at one of New Zealand’s most established design agencies Designworks.

"The time I spent in Munich and at Talente was like a creative dessert. Since the experience [at Talente] I have been able to translate my observations of tactile craftsmanship into my own work space and also implement them into a commercial environment" Anzac said.

--

Talente: One Year On at Objectspace has been programmed concurrently with Talente 2012 in Munich (14-20 March 2012), to generate awareness of this important international event and the significant contribution of New Zealand makers.

On show simultaneously in the Main Gallery at Objectspace, Auckland will be the annual Best in Show 2012 exhibition. Most of the Talente: One Year On exhibitors have been selected for past Best in Show exhibitions.

Public Programme: Friday 9th March at 5.30pm. Join three of the artists – Rachel Bell, Sam Kelly and Corrina Hoseason - for an artists’ floor talk.

===
For more information contact:
Laura Howard
Objectspace Programme Manager
Phone: (09) 376 6216 or 027 508 4311
Email: laura@objectspace.org.nz
www.objectspace.org.nz

Te Waka Toi Scholarships available to emerging Māori artists

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 13:02:20 +1300

Māori who are studying the arts, or an arts related field, are encouraged to apply for this year’s Ngā Karahipi a Te Waka Toi, Te Waka Toi Scholarships.

Every year Te Waka Toi, the Māori Arts Board of Creative New Zealand, awards two scholarships to emerging artists who have talent, promise and commitment to the future of Māori arts. Each scholarship is worth $4000.

“The scholarships often identify future movers and shakers of the Māori art world. It is exciting to support the artists at such an early and crucial stage, then watch their careers flourish as time goes by” says Te Waka Toi Chair Darrin Haimona.

Ngā Karahipi a Te Waka Toi are open to students of all artforms; media arts, theatre, music, visual arts, dance as well as art-related areas such as curation, arts writing and conservation. Students must be studying at a formal place of learning including marae, or other institution such as an accredited university, polytechnic or whare wānanga.

All scholarship applications are assessed on leadership qualities, the applicant’s involvement with iwi and marae as well as their artistic, cultural and academic merit. Applicants need to submit quality examples of their work and two references from people who support them and their path of study. The applicant must also explain their reasons for wanting a career in Māori arts.

The 2011 scholarship winners were contemporary weaver Karangawai Marsh who is studying for her Masters in Māori Visual Arts at Massey University; and graphic designer and carver Tai Kerekere who runs his own graphic design business with his wife, in Wellington.

Te Waka Toi Scholarship recipients represent both heritage and contemporary artforms; they include Nigel Borell (kaiwhakahaere of Toi o Manukau, Auckland), Te Kohe Tuhaka (actor Shortland Street, Billy, Tama Tu), contemporary weaver Ngahina Hohaia, internationally exhibited visual artist Kelcy Taratoa and Taryn Beri (apprentice to tohunga tā moko Mark Kopua).

The 2012 Te Waka Toi Scholarships will be presented at an awards evening in September.

Applications for Ngā Karahipi a Te Waka Toi close at 5pm, Friday 30 March 2012.

All information can be found at www.creativenz.govt.nz/findfunding then select Māori arts.

For further information contact:

Tumarangai Sciascia, Māori Arts Advisor

04 4980705

tumarangai.sciascia@creativenz.govt.nz

Funding for groups to grow and retain Māori arts

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 11:56:07 +1300

Groups who want to see the arts thriving on their marae, are invited to apply for Toi Ake funding from Creative New Zealand.

Toi Ake supports iwi, hapū, whakapapa-based rōpu and māta waka to grow and retain Māori arts. Offered since 2005, Toi Ake projects usually focus on heritage arts including ngā mahi a Te Whare Pora, and te reo based arts including whaikōrero and whakapapa recitation; but contemporary arts projects are also supported. Toi Ake supports the artworks of new wharenui but does not include restoration projects.

“Toi Ake aims to restore the mana of the arts to marae communities around the country by supporting the transfer of knowledge and skill from our tohunga to the next generation, while also enriching whānau and hapū identity through the beauty of art,” said Darrin Haimona, Chair of Te Waka Toi, the Māori arts board of Creative New Zealand.

This year brings changes to Toi Ake. Now a single-stage funding programme, it focuses solely on putting arts projects into practice. Applicants must submit a current arts strategy, which outlines what is needed to cover the development of all aspects of their local arts. Applications can be made for up to $65,000.

Previously Toi Ake involved two application stages. Applicants developed an arts strategy and then the same group reapplied to undertake an arts project outlined in the strategy. While Toi Ake no longer funds the development of arts strategies, funding for such planning is now available through Creative New Zealand’s Quick Response grants.

Another change sees the net cast wider to include more groups. Mātā waka, or kinship groups living outside their traditional rohe/district, are also eligible to apply for funding.

Toi Ake is offered twice a year. The current funding round closes at 5pm, Monday 2 March 2012. The following roundcloses in early September 2012.

All information can be found at www.creativenz.govt.nz/findfunding and select Māori arts.

ENDS

For information about Toi Ake contact:

Tumarangai Sciascia, Māori Arts Adviser

04 4980705

tumarangai.sciascia@creativenz.govt.nz

New Zealand craft and object art featuring in European showcase

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 13:06:15 +1300

Talented young New Zealand jewellers and a textile artist are saying ‘auf wiedersehen’ to Aotearoa as they prepare to showcase their work at Talentè in Germany next month.

Talentè is one of Europe’s most prestigious showcases for emerging talent in design, including craft and object art, and technology. Held in Munich, Talentè is an opportunity for young artists to launch their careers on the European market. Now in its 31st year, Talentè is part of the International Trade Fair for the Skilled Trades.

In 2012 Creative New Zealand is supporting a group of seven to attend Talentè. Jewellers Sunni Gibson (Wellington) and Lynsay Raine (Auckland), together with textile artist Rebekah Harman (Christchurch) will showcase their artwork. Collectively the body of work will include brooches, rings and quilts, made from cardboard, silver and silk.

Three arts practitioners will also attend Talentè as part of the New Zealand delegation. Christchurch gallerist Caroline Billing and Wellington educators, and curators Peter Deckers and Karl Fritsch will have the opportunity to develop their curatorial experience, gain first-hand experience of the European market, and explore exchange and exhibition possibilities.

“Talentè is a powerful opportunity for this group,” said Stephen Wainwright, Chief Executive of Creative New Zealand. “Experience in the European market will strengthen their ability to work around the world, as well as expand the international audience for New Zealand craft and object art.”

Contemporary jeweller and senior lecturer in jewellery at Manukau Institute of Technology Fran Allison, will accompany the artists and act as mentor while in Germany. Ms Allison has previously mentored New Zealand artists at Talentè.

This is the fourth year Creative New Zealand has supported New Zealand artists to participate in Talentè. In 2011 artists included Anzac Tasker, whose typographic design was one of the first pieces to sell at Talentè; and Rachel Bell and Flora Sekanova’s whose work was purchased by a Netherlands museum for inclusion in its permanent collection.

Craft and object art includes ceramics, jewellery, glass, textiles, metal, woodwork and studio-based design.

An exhibition of New Zealand work showcased at Talentè last year called, Talente: One Year On will feature at Auckland's Objectspace Window Gallery gallery Objectspace from 9 March – 18 April 2012.

Talentè runs from 14-20 March 2012.

ENDS

For media inquiries please contact:

Pirimia Burger

Communications Advisor

04 498 0727

027 290 1606

pirimia.burger@creativenz.govt.nz

Grants to improve access to arts events and venues

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 09:03:43 +1300

Arts organisations and venues will become more accessible this year, thanks to 11 grants provided by Creative New Zealand for projects ranging from sign language interpretations and audio described performances to music workshops and concerts for disabled children and young adults, and improved physical access.

Totalling $30,000, the one-off grants are being administered by Arts Access Aotearoa through its Arts For All Programme, a partnership programme with Creative New Zealand. The aim of this programme is to work with representatives from the disability sector to support arts organisations, venues and producers to improve their access.

Stephen Wainwright, Chief Executive, Creative New Zealand said the one-off grants signal the organisation’s commitment to supporting improved access to arts events for all New Zealanders. They complement the publication Arts for All: opening doors to disabled people and the annual Big ‘A’ Creative New Zealand Arts for All Award.

“It’s great to see the range of projects and the organisations’ enthusiasm to build new audiences by making performances, facilities and information more accessible to disabled people,” he said. “I look forward to seeing the long-term impact of this investment and of Arts Access Aotearoa’s Arts for All Programme.”

Richard Benge, Executive Director, Arts Access Aotearoa said the one-off grants build on the work being done through the Arts For All Programme. They have also prompted valuable discussions with the organisations.

“I am very pleased to see the level of commitment and creative ideas coming from the arts community to improve access for everyone wanting to engage in the arts,” he said.

The 11 grant recipients will also contribute their own funding to their projects.

The following is a complete list of grants:

$3000 to Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki to increase access to its programmes, provide disability awareness training for staff, and provide a series of signed talks about works in its collection in 2012
$3000 to the Auckland Theatre Company to install ramps in its premises and make its website more accessible to people with a visual impairment
$3000 to Capital E National Theatre for Children to provide signed performances of three different works in its 2012 programme
$3000 to Chamber Music New Zealand to present a workshop and concert in the Wellington Town Hall for disabled children and young adults so they can experience live music up close, and interact with musicians and their instruments
$3000 to Fortune Theatre, Dunedin to establish best practice methodologies for audio-described performances and present six audio-described performances in 2012
$3000 to the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra to increase the number of its performances to students in special needs schools in Auckland
$1150 to Pablos Art Studios, Wellington to provide staff training for its tutors, enhancing their engagement with those studio’s artists who have visual, hearing or communication impairments
$3000 to Q Theatre, Auckland to develop an accessibility policy and action plan, promote its access to a wide audience, and provide disability awareness training for staff, board and management
$3000 to Silo Theatre, Auckland to provide signed performances of Tribes by Nina Raine, an award-winning work about the politics of communication for hearing, hearing impaired and Deaf people
$1850 to Studio2, Dunedin to display artwork by disabled artists to professional standards in its exhibition space
$3000 to the Theatre Royal Charitable Trust, Christchurch to contribute to the installation of an accessible lift, catering for disabled patrons, to the upper levels of the Isaac Theatre Royal.

For more information, please contact:

IonaMcNaughton, Communications Manager, Arts Access Aotearoa

(T: 04-802 4356 / 021 799 059 E: iona.mcnaughton@artsaccess.org.nz)

PledgeMe re-launch

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 18:26:43 +1300

New Zealand’s first creative crowdfunding platform PledgeMe will re-launch this month with a brand spanking new website and celebratory party. The online initiative is the brainchild of Wellington-based entrepreneurs Anna Guenther and Camilo Borges, and offers Kiwi creatives alternative options in funding their projects.

In a similar vein to American crowdfunding giant kickstarter.com, users of pledgeme.co.nz can post project ideas online for people to help fund in return for a creative reward. Following its inception in 2011, more than $10,000 has been raised through the site, with Wellington band St Rupertsberg raising $1800 in seven days to fund the post-production work on their first album. The site has also helped secure funding for post-production work on a documentary featuring Kiwi artists living in Berlin.

PledgeMe founder Anna Guenther said “…All types of creatives can use PledgeMe - we’ve helped fund projects in film, music, art and journalism and there is potential for so much more. I believe what we’ve seen is just the tip of the iceberg...”

A refurbished version of pledgeme.co.nz will launch on January 25, followed by a shindig at Meow in Wellington on Friday, February 3. Entertainment will include live music from Jeremy Mason, Amy Bowie, Mangle and Gruff and more. Those that arrive before 8pm will get a dollar pledged to the PledgeMe project of their choice.

For more info see, http://www.pledgeme.co.nz

Creative New Zealand announces further Earthquake Assistance Grants

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:10:26 +1300

In November and December 2011, Creative New Zealand approved a further $146,745 in grants from its Earthquake Emergency Response Fund to help re-establish an active arts scene in Christchurch.

“Our focus for the Earthquake Emergency Grants continues to be with the Christchurch artists and arts organisations directly affected. We have also supported New Zealand touring companies who have had to cancel performances because of the shortage of venues in the city, “ said Creative New Zealand Chief Executive Stephen Wainwright.

A range of Christchurch artists received funding to research and develop temporary venues, alongside funding for artists and organisations that have lost revenue due to cancelled performances.

Grants include $25,000 towards research, development and implementation of a mobile gallery model by Martin Trusttum; $6,120 towards rental costs for artists studios; $20,949 toward lost revenue and extra costs incurred by the National Theatre for Children following the cancellation of Christchurch hires and a performance; $10,359 to Christchurch musicians Pacific Underground to support the rebuilding of their company; and $25,000 to Chamber Music New Zealand for lost revenue and costs incurred following the cancellation of concerts.

In addition to the Earthquake Assistance Grants, Creative New Zealand has approved an extra $60,000 to the Christchurch City Council for the Creative Communities Scheme(CCS). This scheme provides financial support to communities to help them participate in and develop the arts.

To date a variety of community organisations have received CCS grants including the Chart Music Industry Trust which has been awarded $10,000 towards a temporary venue for music groups in Cashel Mall, the Dance & Physical Theatre Trust were awarded $5,000 towards ticket subsidies for school students for Body Festival, and the Te Taumatu Runanga Society$3,000 towards Te Atakura Kapahaka Festival.

Since September 2010, Creative New Zealand has provided nearly $1.8 million in grants to artists, arts practitioners, and arts organisations directly affected by the Christchurch earthquakes through its Earthquake Emergency Response Fund.

The fund was established in addition to Creative New Zealand’s existing funding programmes, including the Creative Communities Scheme.

Information about eligibility criteria for the Earthquake Emergency Response Fund and how to apply can be found on the Creative New Zealand website.

The next round of EAG assessments will be in February 2012.

List of EAG recipients, activity and amounts:

Chamber Music New ZealandLost revenue and extra costs incurred following the cancellation of Christchurch concerts, $25,000
National Theatre for Childrenlost revenue and extra costs incurred following the cancellation of Christchurch hires and a performance, $20,949
Pacific Undergroundsupport to rebuild their company, $10,359
Martin Trusttumtowards research, development and implementation of mobile gallery model, $ 25,000
Arts on Tour NZtowards storage of furniture, equipment and vehicle $3,577
Warren Feeney Towards rental costs for artists studios, $6,120
Strike PercussionLoss of incomedue to cancellation of concerts, $54,520
Maria Gobinet-Wattstowards leasing lockable space for tools/equipment at Latimer Square $1,220

JEMposium starts February 10th - register now

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 20:24:52 +1300

JEMposium brings together contemporary jewellers, collectors, curators, critics, and jewellery enthusiasts from New Zealand and abroad to discuss and celebrate the art of jewellery.

The symposium will be held in Wellington over four days from 10–13 February 2012.

See the full programme here

Keynote speakers

Ted Noten (NL), Manon van Kouswijk (NL/AUS), Karl Fritsch (FRG/NZ), Fabrizio Tridenti (IT), Liesbeth den Besten (NL) and other invited guests will their ideas through a mixture of formal and PechaKucha presentations. Taking discussions on jewellery a step further, JEMposium also offers the opportunity of a masterclass workshop with these respected international jewellers.

More about the speakers and examples of thier work

Why Jemposium

Contemporary jewellery in New Zealand has a history of hosting significant international experts to run workshops and give presentations at conferences. Such occasions generate a ripple of inspiration that enriches the local jewellery community, extending to the makers and stimulating their practice.

JEMposium builds on this tradition, with a calibre of artists and experts that marks the event as the most far-reaching yet.The symposium is a unique opportunity for international authorities on jewellery to acquire exposure to New Zealand practices, and for local practitioners to gain insights into global trends and movements.

Call for craft/object curators to attend Talente 2012 in March

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 16:28:40 +1300

Creative New Zealand is calling for applications from curators working in the New Zealand craft/object sector to attend Talente in Munich, Germany in March 2012.

The curator will travel with three artists that have already been selected.

This opportunity closes Wednesday, 21 December 2011 so please apply now if you are interested in this opportunity.

Talente is one of Europe’s most prestigious showcases for emerging talent in design, technology and craft/object art.

Now in its 31st year, Talente is held annually as part of the International Trade Fair for the Skilled Trades and offers a platform for young artists to launch their creative careers to the wider European market.

This is the fourth time the International team has supported selected New Zealand artists to participate in Talente, a professional development opportunity which strengthens their ability to work internationally and expands international audiences for New Zealand craft/object art.

Quirky and gifted artist remembered by Creative New Zealand

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 20:18:28 +1300

Creative New Zealand remembers Don Driver who passed away last week as a visual artist who frequently challenged and stimulated New Zealand audiences.

Don Driver is regarded as one of New Zealand’s most significant contemporary artists. Best known for crafting sculptures out of found and discarded objects, Driver’s work would combine prams, ladders, sacks, door mats, milk crates and stuffed birds in unusual and lively compositions.

“Throughout his career, Don Driver experimented with media, textures, form and colour. The results raised questions and debates about what art is and how it should look,” says Creative New Zealand chief executive Stephen Wainwright,

“Although we have lost the artist, his work will give our communities a legacy of ongoing, healthy discussions about the place, shape and nature of art”.

Although born in Hastings in 1930, Mr Driver lived in New Plymouth since childhood. He was a largely self-taught artist, having received no formal school or tertiary art education. He enjoyed a formative experience as an artist when he travelled to New York in 1965 and was an avid reader of materials that discussed modern art traditions.

Mr Driver’s early work was influenced by Asian and African art. In the late 1960s he shifted towards examining the mundane, everyday objects which surrounded him in New Zealand. He analysed the power of signs and symbols, and grappled with the boundaries and definitions of ‘art’.

He was the recipient of many grants and awards, including several QEII Arts Council awards, New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts Award (1991), BP Art Award (1987), the Sarjeant Gallery Whanganui Art Award (1984), the Hansell’s Sculpture Award and the Benson and Hedges art award. He was also chosen to represent New Zealand in several Australian Biennales.

Mr Driver’s work is well represented in major public and private collections. He is one of this country’s most eminent artists to emerge in the contemporary New Zealand art arena.

ENDS

Winning the wild experience

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 18:20:04 +1300

DOC and Creative New Zealand have announced the three artists who will take up a Wild Creations residency in 2012. They are: Dave Armstrong from Wellington, and Lynn Kelly and Sally Ann McIntyre from Dunedin.

Playwright Dave Armstrong will spend his residency in Bannockburn, Central Otago where he will research and work on a play dealing with the impact of humans on the landscape and the history of the area.

Jeweller Lynn Kelly is also going to Bannockburn, to develop a new body of work inspired by the plants, reptiles, insect life and minerals specific to the local environment.

Sound and radio artist Sally Ann McIntyre is going to Kapiti Island to explore and pay homage to the unique sound-print of the island, specifically the sounds of New Zealand native birds, and to communicate it in a variety of ways.

The Wild Creations artists-in-residence programme is a partnership between DOC and Creative New Zealand which combines conservation and art. “Wild Creations’ artists spend six weeks in some of New Zealand’s best natural environments and historic places,” said DOC’s Wild Creations Co-ordinator, Elena Sedouch. “They’re inspired by the place they visit and share the story of its history and people through their art, while also developing their own arts practice.”

Creative New Zealand offers the artists a $5,000 stipend and up to $2,000 for travel and materials, and DOC provides accommodation and support for the artists on location.

NZ Arts Awards recipients announced

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 16:55:04 +1300

Ten prestigious awards totalling $360,000 were presented tonight to New Zealand artists at the inaugural Macquarie Private Wealth New Zealand Arts Awards at the Viaduct Events Centre on Auckland's Waterfront.

The Arts Foundation awards included five $50,000 Laureate Awards, three $25,000 New Generation Awards, the $25,000 Marti Friedlander Photographic Award and the first $10,000 Mallinson Rendel Award for children's book illustrators.

Laureates announced include musician Whirimako Black, photographer Fiona Pardington, writer Emily Perkins, filmmaker Leanne Pooley and choreographer/director Lemi Ponifasio. Musician/artist Sam Hamilton, who is currently on tour with Lemi in Europe, received a New Generation Award alongside photographer Ben Cauchi and playwright Eli Kent. Fiona Pardington's brother Neil Pardinton received the Marti Friedlander Photographic Award and the inaugural recipient of the Mallinson Rendel Award is David Elliot.

The five hundred guests at the awards were greeted by a gallery of works by artists previously awarded by the Arts Foundation and artists who have been commissioned by the Arts Foundation for award trophies. Sculpture, paintings and photographs were joined by live theatre and digital sound art installation in an amazing display of New Zealand depth of artistic achievement. The ceremony concluded with 2010 New Generation Award recipient Anna Leese performing Zueignung by Richard Strauss. Anna sung as the curtains of the event centre were draw to reveal performers silhouetted by the nights sky surrounding the venue and then blasted by aviation search lights. The design of the extraordinary finish was donated by Marie Adams and Mike Mizrahi from Inside Out Productions.

Arts Foundation Chair, Fran Ricketts, said "the Arts Awards are an occasion for New Zealand to focus on the national and international achievements of our finest artists. She also said that the Awards were an opportunity to celebrate and grow philanthropic support for the arts. All of our awards are privately funded or secured. We expect to grow the amount of donations to artists presented at these awards through private partnerships and are already in discussion with a number of philanthropists about establishing new awards."

The Arts Foundation was a winner on the night. Ian Witters, Head of Macquarie Private Wealth New Zealand, announced that in addition to naming rights to the New Zealand Arts Awards, Macquarie Private Wealth New Zealand will be the Arts Foundation's Principal Partner. "The Arts Foundation's investment in talented New Zealanders and bringing us together as a nation, through these awards, is applauded by Macquarie Private Wealth New Zealand," said Ian. "We are thrilled to be able to partner with the Foundation to show our commitment to New Zealand and the entrepreneurial spirit embraced by the arts."

In conjunction with the Macquarie Private Wealth New Zealand Arts Awards the Foundation is producing a series of events on the Auckland Waterfront. The Wynyard Quarter Arts Series features a writers walk, outdoor cinema, a concert in silo park, a series of events in the Stoneleigh 'pop up' container bar an information hub where viewers can watch the TVNZ 7 series The Artists and there is a literary sandpit for children featuring the writing of Arts Foundation Icon, Margaret Mahy with illustrations by David Elliot. "The Series is introducing New Zealanders to our finest artists and ensuring public access to the celebration of the Macquarie Private Wealth New Zealand Arts Awards", said Fran Ricketts.

Dr Takirirangi Smith, tohunga whakairo (master carver), to receive Honorary Doctorate

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 16:54:27 +1300

Victoria University will confer an honorary degree on Dr Takirirangi Clarence Smith, a master carver in Maori carving. He will receive an Honorary Doctorate in Literature.

Dr Takirirangi Clarence Smith is a tohunga whakairo, a master carver, whose work can be found throughout New Zealand and overseas. The rare title of tohunga has been bestowed on him in recognition of his knowledge and artistry.

Dr Smith studied at Victoria in the 1980s, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Maori Studies in 1984 and a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Maori Studies the following year. During this time he led the carving of Victoria University's meeting house, Te Tumu Herenga Waka.

After graduating from Victoria, Takirirangi Smith went on to supervise and carve nine other meeting houses, as well as numerous waharoa (entrances), pou (carved figures), and pataka (raised storehouses). He is also interested in traditional navigation and has carved twelve waka.

His works can be found throughout the world, notably at the New Zealand Consulate in Shanghai, China, the St Louis Museum in the United States, and the Museum Volkenkunde in Holland. He completed a PhD in Education at the University of Auckland in 2007.

Professor Pat Walsh says Takirirangi Smith has played an important role in Maori art and culture.

"He has made a significant contribution to Maori carving and, more broadly, Maori knowledge. Takirirangi Smith's work displays high artistic skill and historical understanding.

"As a young man, Dr Smith carved Victoria University's meeting house, which is recognised nationwide for its pan-tribal representation. He has also been carving a new entrance-way to Te Herenga Waka Marae that will be unveiled as part of the 25th anniversary celebrations of the carved meeting house on 6 December."

Victoria December Graduation-honorary degree

At Victoria's December Graduation, Honorary Degrees will also be conferred on: Dr Ross Ferguson, the international authority on kiwifruit biology; and Dr Jack Richards, a renowned specialist in second and foreign language teaching.

ENDS

Polynesian Diva reigns supreme at Creative New Zealand Arts Pasifika Awards night

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 21:08:44 +1300

The Creative New Zealand Arts Pasifika Awards are the only national Pacific arts awards to celebrate artistic achievement across all art forms, with five awards presented on the night.

Visual artist Michel Tuffery (M.N.Z.M.), winner of last year’s Contemporary Pacific Artist Award and set to open the 2012 New Zealand International Arts Festival, gave the keynote speech; while respected musician and poet Tigilau Ness, father of hip hop icon Che Fu, was Master of Ceremonies.

Chair of Creative New Zealand’s Pacific Arts Committee, Pele Walker, said the awards are an opportunity to celebrate the creative success of those making a difference internationally, nationally and in local communities.

“The awards recognise the richness and diversity of Pacific culture in this country. We honour those who share their expertise, to preserve heritage artforms; and those who push boundaries, to create an exciting contemporary Pacific arts scene in New Zealand,” said Ms Walker.

Annie Crummer’s long-term artistic achievement was honoured with the Senior Pacific Artist Award and $10,000. Starting her music career as a child-performer, Ms Crummer released her first single at age 16 and as an established solo artist, has supported some of music’s biggest acts including Sir Paul McCartney, Ray Charles and Michael Jackson. Of Tahitian and Cook Island descent, Ms Crummer is a household name, with numerous music awards behind her. She has released two albums, a ‘best of’ CD, is working on her next album and has expanded her career to include musical theatre.

New media and installation artist Janet Lilo received the Contemporary Pacific Artist Award and $5,0000. An Aucklander of Samoan, Niuean and Māori ancestry, Ms Lilo uses digital and online platforms to provoke and challenge. Community and audience involvement is a signature of her work. Commended for her innovative practice , Ms Lilo presents insights into contemporary daily life for urban New Zealanders through landscapes, homes, communities and personalities. Ms Lilo’s work has been included in group exhibitions in Honolulu, Taiwan, Indonesia, Europe and Australia. She has recently returned from artist residencies in Japan and New Caledonia.

Christchurch based visual artist Kulimoe’anga Stone Maka suffered damage to his studio, equipment and artwork in the February earthquake. In his studio, Mr Maka had developed a contemporary technique based on the traditional Tongan practice of smoking mats. The resulting artwork has earned him artistic favour and the nickname ‘The Smoke Collector’. Mr Maka’s recent exhibition of smoke paintings, Ngatu Tu’uli – the Past is Now, has lead to invitations to exhibit overseas. His talent and promise was acknowledged by the Emerging Pacific Artist Award and $4,000.

Expert weaver Kalameli Ihaia-Alefosio received the Pacific Heritage Arts Award and $5,000 for the major contribution she has made to maintaining and promoting the art of Tokelauan weaving in New Zealand, especially the techniques and styles of her home island Nukunonu. Mrs Ihaia-Alefosio is an active member of Wellington’s Tokelauan Community and teaches at the first Tokelauan early childhood centre established in New Zealand.

Opera starlet Marlena Tifaimoana Devoe received the Iosefa Enari Memorial Award. This award recognises the late Samoan baritone Iosefa Enari’s contribution to the arts, particularly Pacific opera. Miss Devoe, a New Zealand born Samoan, is in her first year of study at the prestigious Manhattan School of Music, New York. Her award was accepted by her family.

ENDS

For media inquiries, including bios, please contact:

Pirimia Burger

Communications Advisor Maori and Pacific

pirimia.burger@creativenz.govt.nz

04 498 0727

Wellington Maori art gallery to follow online trend

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 16:00:00 +1300

After six years and close to 100 exhibitions, Iwi Art gallery in Wellington will turn its focus to the increasing online demand.

Iwi Art gallery will close its doors at 19 Tory St on 24^th December 2011 and concentrate solely on upgrading its Gallery website; iwiart.co.nz

Gallery owner Tia Kirk says the decision has been difficult, and the economic situation has been the biggest factor.

“We are not closing the business but we’ve had to take a long, hard look at Iwi Art, and find creative ways to continue to operate successfully while minimising the risks. We have assessed that a large number of our sales actually come from queries through our website and we will be investing into technological growth for the next couple of years while we ride the unstable economic times”.

Over the past six years Iwi Art has helped develop the careers of many artists, with several going on to exhibit internationally, entering international art competitions and winning several prestigious awards.

“We will continue to provide a platform for both new and established artists to exhibit and sell their work, however, we endure to do so online and with a more strengthened Gallery website.”

Tia states that this that will allow Iwi Art to continue to grow without having to have an actual physical space.

“Our international sales have provided the stability for our business over the years and we’re in the process of developing the new website. Being online as well will allow us to plan more events such as pop-up group exhibitions both here in New Zealand and abroad”.

Iwi Art will trade in its current Tory St space until Christmas Eve 2011.

Chance to attend a Major Gift Fundraising Masterclass - Wellington

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 15:17:00 +1300

The Ministry for Culture and Heritage would like to offer you the opportunity to attend an all-day masterclass on major gift fundraising, presented by major gifts specialist Canadian Guy Mallabone (of Global Philanthropic). Internationally recognised as an inspired leader in not-for-profit fundraising, Guy has over 30 years' experience in integrated fund development, including regular giving, major gifts and gift planning. For more information, see: http://www.guymallabone.com/

The masterclass will be held in Wellington on Monday 14 November. It will cost $389 per person and will run from 9.00am until 5.00pm, followed by refreshments and the opportunity to network with other invited guestsfrom a range of cultural organisations.

The masterclass, based on those run each year by Artsupport Australia, will be a challenging and practical opportunity to develop strategies and maximise income from major gifts. (Depending on the size of an organisation, a major gift could be anything from $500 to $5,000 or more.)

Ultimately, gift fundraising means asking someone for money face-to-face, not necessarily a natural or easy thing to do.Knowing when and how to ask is the most essential weapon in any effective fundraiser's arsenal. Participants will learn the strategic overview of major gift solicitation, review the elements that influence a decision, and examine the psychology of a successful ask and the secrets to success.

The masterclass is designed for general managers, CEOs and other senior staff experienced in development and philanthropic fundraising but it will also be accessible for new staff keen to learn. There is no limit on the number of attendees per organisation.

Guy's broad experience covers:

donor prospecting and qualification techniques
cultivation and solicitation strategies
campaign management
stewardship practices
board and organisational development
fund development
performance audit
feasibilitiy/planning studies, and
strategic planning.

We appreciate this is short notice but we hope you'll agree Guy's visit 'Down Under' is an opportunity too good to miss.

To guarantee your place at the masterclass, please confirm your attendance as soon as possible by emailing ingrid.kamstra@mch.govt.nz

There is also an opportunity the following morning (on Tuesday 15 November) for a more targeted session with Guy Mallabone to work through a fund development audit tool he has developed. This audit tool is designed to draw attention to 8 critical fundraising areas and to assess whether, in any particular organisation, they might need further work or consideration. It is designed to assist with fundraising/marketing/business planning, and is a useful way to measure effective progress in fund development. It enables better decision-making about where to start, what priorities to address first and how best to achieve your objectives to move forward.

There is a small additional charge to attend this second workshop ($35 if you're also attending the masterclass).This session will run from 9.00am until 12.30pm, and will also be in Wellington.

Earthskin Creative Art Residency Scholarships - Muriwai

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 15:57:00 +1300

Calling all established Creative Artists for 2012 who seek a Residency opportunity for peace and practice, to draw inspiration from within the natural surroundings of our sacred spaces.

During the months from March to November, residencies are available for 4 weeks duration, Muriwai Earthskin offers an Creative/Artist scholarship, free of all charges except Power and Phone.

The space is open to Individual or Multiple Creative Residencies. We would like to encourage more than one artist (and up to three artists) to share the residency at Muriwai Earthskin. This is to allow each person to experience the solitude of their practice, as well as the benefit of proximity and sharing with other artists.

We seek application from diverse range of “creatives” to invigorate a wider nourishment and sharing of ideas and practice of the Arts. Artists, Potters, Sculptors, Musicians, Scientists, Designers, Performing Artists, Philosophers, Writers and Poets…

For more information and to apply, visit the Earthskin Muriwai website

Creative New Zealand announces further Earthquake Assistance Grants

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 13:22:00 +1300

Creative New Zealand has approved a further $54,159 in grants from its Earthquake Emergency Response Fund in September, to help re-establish an active arts scene in Christchurch.

Grants include $9,000 towards a series of wānanga for local kapa haka in support of Māori Heritage Arts, $22,150 to assist the Centre of Contemporary Art (CoCA) with transitional programming, $5000 to Christchurch artist Miranda Parkes to restage an exhibition at the Sarjeant Gallery in Wanganui, and $3200 to Pacific artist Kulimoe’anga Stone Maka towards the costof replacing lost equipment.

“One of the most exciting aspects of the aftermath of the earthquakes is to see how responsive the Christchurch arts community has been to its new surrounds. It is important for Creative New Zealand to aid the sector to rebuild the arts infrastructure and in doing so, engage the Canterbury community,” said Creative New Zealand Chief Executive Stephen Wainwright.

CoCA will use its funds for a new programme of exhibitions.

“While we wait for engineering and insurance reports, CoCA will keep supporting the arts. We are pursuing on-site and off-site projects that will demonstrate the vital role of contemporary art to the recovery of the city,” said Board Trustee, Dr Jessica Halliday.

“Our on-site Window Projects will be in the full-height window of our building and safely visible from the street. The first two projects will be: Secular Variations, a moving-image installation by Ed Lust and We Won't Have Legs To Stand, a kinetic sculpture and film project by Sam Eng. A vital aspect of these projects is that both are with local artists and are curated by a young local curator, Chloe Geoghegan. We hope to launch the first one in the new year.”

Since September 2010, Creative New Zealand has provided more than $1.65 million in grants to artists, arts practitioners, and arts organisations directly affected by the Christchurch earthquakes, through its Earthquake Emergency Response Fund.

The fund was established in addition to Creative New Zealand’s existing funding programmes, including the Creative Communities Scheme.

Information about eligibility criteria for the Earthquake Emergency Response Fund and how to apply can be found on the Creative New Zealand website.

List of recipients, activity and amounts:

Waitaha whānau support towards a series of wānanga for local kapa haka, $9000

National Concerto Competition towards covering anticipated loss on 2011-12 competition, $11,250

CoCA towards transitional programming, $22,150

Elizabeth Moyle towards the cost of lost equipment and materials, $3,559

Miranda Parkes towards restaging an exhibition at the Sarjeant Gallery, $5,000

Kulimoe’anga Stone Maka towards the cost of replacing lost equipment, $3,200.

Dunedin’s Cabinet of Curiosities - Group Show

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:58:00 +1300

Featuring Dan Roberts, Anne-Mieke Ytsma, Craig Freeborn and Mariya Semenova.

Curated by Suzanne Claessen.

The Blue Oyster’s Reading Room has been transformed by several Dunedin artists into a Cabinet of Curiosities. This experimental space shows sculpture, jewellery, painting and photography exploring the concept of Kunst- und Wunderkammern (art and wonder room). This is a type of exhibition and collection space that emerged in Europe in the seventeenth century in which collectors sought to create mini-cosms of the world by acquiring and presenting a plethora of objects and artefacts.

In the Cabinet of Curiosities a tension between fiction and science becomes visible through artefacts that are presented as both scientific objects and unreliable story-telling creations. From a wild unicorn captured by scientists exploring the ‘new land’ to a cave painting created by an unknown Dunedin-based community – these are elements of one particular Dunedin Myth.

The Cabinet of Curiosities explores elements of story telling – the primitive and irresistible desire we all have to construct narratives about our surroundings and histories. It also raises questions about exhibition environments that are often taken for granted: is it a museum? A gallery? A scientific archive? A domestic display space? Or is it a personal obsession? The viewer is challenged to distinguish between elements recognised from the outside world and from their own imagination.

Artist and Curator Information

Dan Roberts is currently studying at the Dunedin School of Art. Anne-Mieke Ytsma is a Dunedin-based jeweller, who owns the jewellery label Underground Sundae. Art school dropout and anxiety ridden neo figurative painter Craig Freeborn is an artist based in Dunedin. Mariya Semenova majors in photography at the Dunedin School of Art.

The Cabinet of Curiosities exhibition is part of the curatorial internship Suzanne Claessen is undertaking as part of her Museum Studies course at the University of Amsterdam.

Listing Information

Exhibition runs from October 25 2011 - November 26 2011

Location

Blue Oyster Art Project Space

Basement Moray Chambers Building, Blue door, down alleyway opposite Rialto, 24b Moray Place, Dunedin.

View Larger Map

Treasured weaving techniques detailed in beautiful new book

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 11:28:00 +1300

A major new publication from Te Papa Press is being launched at the National Weavers’ hui in Kawhia this weekend.

Whatu Kakahu: Maori Cloaks is a beautifully illustrated new book that hopes to help open the storeroom doors of the Maori collections held in our national museum, home to the largest collection of kakahu (Maori cloaks) in the world.

The heavily illustrated new book grew out of a wananga (school of higher learning) in 2007 and is a celebration and a tribute to all those who keep the art and spirit of weaving alive, according to its editor Awhina Tamarapa.

“The concept was to help bring these taonga (treasures) out into the world, rather than leaving them isolated in the storeroom drawers,” says Awhina – who is herself a weaver and who began work as a curator with the Museum in 1996.

“Arapata Hakiwai, the museum’s specialist Maori scholar, initiated the idea while he was director of the Matauranga Maori team. It was then raised with Te Roopu Raranga Whatu o Aotearoa, the national Maori weavers’ collective, whose leadership suggested a wananga as a way for all the interested parties to work together.”

“The conference was held over three days and led to some of the book’s themes being chosen, based on their importance to the weavers who had gathered. It was also decided that forty of the more rare and precious kakahu from the Museum’s collections would be specially featured in the planned book with descriptions of the techniques and materials used and the stories of their often remarkable provenance.”

The cloaks that readers can see in the finished book are a combination selected by the weavers wānanga, the contributing writers, and the book’s editor.

With over 300 new colour images taken by photographer Norman Heke, and essays by five prominent practitioners and experts, the book also includes detailed close ups and diagrams of some of the rarer techniques used in the weaving for adornment and finishing which guarantees it will be of great interest to all who are interested in textiles and traditional weaving techniques. An exhibition based on these themes is also in planning for 2012.

The publication of Whatu Kakahu: Maori Cloaks will be celebrated as part of the Weavers’ National Hui at Maketu Marae, Kawhia, this coming Labour Weekend. The book will be available to purchase there and will also be available from bookstores and libraries nationwide and online from www.tepapastore.co.nz

A public exhibition of kakahu will also show at Te Papa from 9 June until 21 October, 2012.

Artbox Auction 27 October - Fundraising for Christchurch Artists

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 10:23:00 +1300

Your support is requested for the ArtBox Auction, featuring work by more than 50 leading New Zealand artists to be held at Webb's Auction House, Auckland, 27 October at 7pm. All funds raised will contribute to new spaces for Christchurch artists.

ArtBox has been created to address the serious shortage of galleries and studios in Christchurch.

Transportable gallery and studio modules that can be interlocked and clustered to create temporary arts precincts will be rented to Christchurch artists at a minimal weekly charge.

In the first stages,18 modules will be built for $12,500 each. These have already been booked for use by 100 Christchurch artists. Funds raised will contribute towards the construction of these first 18 modules.

ArtBox is supported nationally by leading New Zealand artists including: Don Binney, Nigel Brown, Dick Frizzell, Kristy Gorman, Jason Greig, Sam Harrison, Glen Hayward, Andrew Hemer, Simon Kaan, Hannah Kidd, Peata Larkin, Tony de Lautour, Julia Morison, Miranda Parkes, Seraphine Pick, Jude Rae, Michael Smither, Marte Szirmay, Michel Tuffery, Philip Trusttum, Wayne Youle, and many more.

To view the works for auction and to bid visit:

http://www.webbs.co.nz/auction/artbox-auction

To see and learn more about ArtBox visit: http://artboxnz.weebly.com/

Bids may also be made by phone on the night.

Creative New Zealand mourns the loss of former Chair of Arts Council - Christopher Doig

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 16:52:00 +1300

Creative New Zealand the Arts Council of New Zealand mourns the loss of international opera singer, sports administrator and Southern Opera founder Christopher Doig.

“Chris was a remarkable man, and in many ways a force of nature,“ says Creative New Zealand Chief Executive Stephen Wainwright. “Not only was he a celebrated artist in his own right, he also used his knowledge and experience to champion the idea of arts-business partnerships because he never saw the obstacles others saw, he only saw opportunity.”

“His generosity was extraordinary, and even during his illness he considered himself to be a fortunate man. His drive and determination was manifested in the extraordinary efforts he went to bring Placido Domingo and Katherine Jenkins to Christchurch. Chris knew that this event would strike a chord with Cantabrians, lift spirits and bring the community together. The sold-out concert ensured that key Christchurch arts organisations were financial beneficiaries.”

Christopher Doig was appointed Chair of the Arts Council in May 2006, before leaving in early 2007 to take up the role of Executive Chairperson for Southern Opera ensuring the survival of opera in the South Island.

Born and educated in Christchurch and graduating from Canterbury University with a Masters degree in English. Chris was a former director of the 1990 and 1992 New Zealand Festivals, and had been a professional singer for more than 25 years.

After winning the 1972 Mobil Song Quest he became a principal tenor at the Vienna State Opera and spent the next 10 years singing in the major opera houses in Europe including Stuttgart, Hamburg, La Scala, Barcelona, Linz and Cologne, and the Salzburg and Vienna Festivals. In 1995 he relinquished his full-time singing career to become the Chief Executive of New Zealand Cricket, a job in which he distinguished himself transforming NZC into a dynamic vibrant modern business and sporting organisation, until he resigned in March 2001.

In 1992 he received a prestigious Green Room award for his performance as Herod in Australian Opera’s Salome and was awarded the OBE for his services to the arts. In more recent years he revitalised the sponsorship of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra spearheading their campaign to secure sponsorship for their overseas tours.

Chris was the Director of the New Zealand International Arts Festival from April 1988 to April 1992. During that time the Festival started producing its own opera beginning with Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg, which was an enormous success and garnered the festival a much needed public profile At the same time, he introduced a fringe festival, a school’s programme and began to umbrella New Zealand work, including bringing Jim Moriarty on board to develop and programme a season of Maori work Te Raku Hua O Te Wao Tapu. He also introduced the dawn ceremony, which has started every festival since, as acknowledgement of the contribution made by Maori culture to the festival.

Chris managed his own business as a consultant specialising in the sports, arts and entertainment sector, and had a number of directorships.

Creative New Zealand acknowledges the passing of a master potter

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 16:44:00 +1300

Creative New Zealand joins the arts community in mourning the loss of one of New Zealand’s most prestigious potters, Len Castle.

Mr Castle died last week after a long illness. It was his request that news of his death not be made public until his family and friends had the opportunity to farewell him in private.

Initially self-taught, Mr Castle worked with clay for more than 60 years to create some of New Zealand’s most sophisticated, innovative and beautiful pottery. He was the first potter to be awarded a fellowship from the Association of New Zealand Art Societies, travelling to England to work with Bernard Leach in 1956-57.

However Mr Castle’s professional life began not in art, but in science. He completed a Bachelor of Science in 1946 and trained as a secondary school teacher. For five years he lectured in science at Auckland Teachers' College, all the while learning the technique and artistry of ceramics.

In 1963 he resigned from his teaching position to concentrate on pottery full time. The grounding in botany, chemistry and biology was never lost on Mr Castle and science continued to inform his approach and overall career as a professional potter.

Mr Castle received a CBE for Services to Pottery in 1986 and a New Zealand Commemorative Medal in 1990. He received an Arts Foundation of New Zealand Icon Award in 2003, and a Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Auckland in 2004. In the same year he was made a Distinguished Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for Services to Pottery.

The publication Len Castle: Potter (Ron Sang Publications) was joint winner of the Illustrative Category of the Montana Book Awards 2003 and Len Castle: Making the Molecules Dance (Lopdell House Gallery) won the NZ Post Book Award for Best Illustrative Non-fiction in 2009.

Len travelled extensively, demonstrated and judged at exhibitions, while producing his works. Mountain to the Sea, a touring exhibition containing approximately sixty works, toured to selected galleries around New Zealand throughout 2009 and into 2010.

The expertise Len Castle acquired in his chosen artform and the contribution he made to the development of ceramics both in New Zealand and overseas, make him a craftsman of superior standard whose memory and work will serve as testament to his consummate artistry.