Creative New Zealand : Dance 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.

DANZ announces new board

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 14:45:41 +1200

With its inclusion in Creative New Zealand's Toi Totara Haemata leadership programme earlier this year, DANZ is entering a new phase in serving the New Zealand dance community. Following a strategic review, the DANZ constitution was updated to create a smaller, more streamlined Board with a focus on governance for a service organisation.

The new DANZ Board was elected at the AGM held on Saturday 21 April and comprises seven highly respected professionals who bring with them a diverse range of experience and interest in the dance industry, together with a broad range of skills in governance and management in the arts sector.

“These are exciting times ahead and while DANZ has been extremely well served by the Board members over the past 20 years it is a time to welcome new blood and fresh ideas to support a strong and vibrant dance service organisation,” says retiring Chairman, Graham Atkinson.

The new Board, who will serve a three-year term, is:

Beverley Edlin brings to the DANZ Board a wide interest in the arts and extensive governance experience. She holds a Doctorate in Business Administration, having written her thesis on 'Corporate Governance'. She has been with Valeo International Limited and Boardroom 360 since 2006 and conducts the Company's Leadership and Governance consultancy and training courses with Massey University, IoD, NZICA and the Chamber of Commerce.

Karen Fraser Payne is a Board member and secretary of Touch Compass Dance Trust. She has been a former chair and is currently General Manager for Touch Compass and is also on the Board of Hohepa Auckland. Karen brings extensive skills and experience in leadership, management, communications and governance having worked for significant periods in corporate, government and charity sectors, specialising in communications and tourism.

Clare Needham has a keen interest in the arts with a particular passion for literature and dance. She is a lawyer with six years post qualification experience specialising in employment and intellectual property law, and currently works in law reform for the NZ Law Society. Her career includes work as a producer, publicist, and arts consultant. She is a managing editor of the literary magazine JAAM and a trustee of the Sleep/Wake Research Centre.

Moana Nepia is a Visual and Performing Arts practitioner, educator and researcher with governance experience on the Atamira and Orotokare Trust Boards, and brings to the DANZ Board a broad network of national and international arts-related experience and connections. He has taught at Unitec and AUT's Dance programmes - ballet and contemporary dance technique, choreography, dance history and contextual studies.

Gaylene Sciascia brings knowledge, experience and skills in dance and dance development in Aotearoa of over 50 years as a performer, choreographer, director, producer, educator and manager. She was the founder of Whitireia Performing Arts as part of Whitireia Community Polytechnic, and was instrumental in developing and embedding in the programme Performing Arts Management papers. Gaylene sees the arts as an essential part of the spiritual, physical and social wellbeing of our community.

Bronwyn Tweddle is a Senior Lecturer in Theatre at Victoria University of Wellington and Part 1 co-ordinator of the Master of Theatre Arts in Directing, which is co-taught with Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School. She has served on numerous panels, committees and festival juries for arts institutions and academic organisations and has been an Executive Board Member for Playmarket since 2002. Bronwyn has extensive practical arts experience in an adjacent field (theatre) as a practitioner, administrator and teacher, and brings an international perspective and connections to a diverse range of artists, curators, cultural institutions and organisations to the DANZ Board.

Perry Walker has an extensive and wide-ranging interest in the arts, having been involved in fostering artistic endeavour both at amateur and professional levels. He is a Communications Consultant, Director for Bats Theatre and Advisory Trustee for Asian Events Trust, and was Trustee/Chairman for Arts Wellington from 2002-2008. Perry brings to the DANZ Board a desire to promote creativity and cultural wellbeing to the communities he lives in, together with a wide range of experience and skills at executive and governance levels.

DANZ is delighted to welcome our new Board and looks forward to continued growth and service to dance.

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

New Zealand School of Dance celebrates 45 years

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 15:57:56 +1300

In 2012 the New Zealand School of Dance (NZSD) marks its 45th anniversary. Established in 1967 to provide professional training for dancers in New Zealand, the school now has graduates dancing with ballet and contemporary dance companies around the world. There will be a number of events held this year for people to experience the school and to celebrate the NZSD’s 45 years. They include two upcoming performance seasons by students of the school.

INSIGHT Studio Performances

3 - 4 April 2012

New Zealand School of Dance, Te Whaea, 11 Hutchison Road, Wellington

One-hour performances of classical ballet and contemporary dance performed by the students of the New Zealand School of Dance. These intimate studio performances of new dance works and traditional classics are performed in the studio, where the students train and rehearse. This is a chance to see behind the scenes at our national dance school and get up close to this physically demanding and technically precise art form. Performances: 6pm Tuesday 3 April, 1.30pm and 6pm Wednesday 4 April. Entry by koha/donation, no booking required.

ON THE OTHER HAND - New Zealand School of Dance Choreographic Season 2012

18 - 26 May 2012

Te Whaea Theatre, 11 Hutchison Road, Wellington

This year's New Zealand School of Dance Choreographic Season titled 'On the Other Hand' introduces ten new works of expressive dance. Examining conversation through movement, this intriguing show is created by final year contemporary dance students of the New Zealand School of Dance. The choreographers have collaborated with set designer Oliver Morse and lighting and costume students from Toi Whakaari: NZ Drama School to build a multifaceted theatrical experience. Revealing elements of the set as the show progresses and the individual voices of its young protagonists, 'On the Other Hand' is dance that's impulsive yet enchanting. Bookings at www.nzschoolofdance.ac.nz

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.

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

Last Dance - Deirdre Tarrant farewells Footnote Dance

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 16:23:36 +1300

The founder/director of Footnote Dance, Deirdre Tarrant, will present her final seasons for the company this year. Tarrant told her Board of this decision in 2011 and has been actively involved in their plans for succession.

A life time devoted to encouraging opportunity for New Zealand dancers and choreographers has been fundamental to the development of the contemporary dance industry and identity here in New Zealand. Passionate about youth, creativity and the magic of dance to express what is unique about being a Kiwi, Tarrant will leave Footnote Dance as the leading company in the country with both a national and international reputation and a legacy of outstanding dancers and choreographers who have been part of the Footy Crew. Her vision of a repertoire company that gives on going opportunity for development and performance has been central to a New Zealand treasure that has had the ability to change with the times and environment, and to sustain an extensive dance programme and touring throughout New Zealand.

She plans to continue teaching her studios in Wellington, to freelance tutor overseas and to continue her role as a vocational examiner of the Royal Academy of Dance.

She will continue to lead Footnote Dance during this year as a new Director is sought and appointed with a planned overlap of direction to ensure a smooth transition to a new leader.

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

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)

Free International Touring workshop opportunity

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:23:37 +1300

Creative New Zealand, in association with the Performing Arts Network of New Zealand (PANNZ), is calling for registrations from managers, agents and self-managed artists to attend a free International Touring workshop on:

Wednesday 7 March 2012, 9am - 12.30pm,

Te Wharewaka,Wellington.

INTERNATIONAL TOURING WORKSHOP

This is a FREE half day workshop on international touring in Australia, North America, UK and Europe. It will be co-presented by three highly experienced, industry professionals: Fenn Gordon, Laura Colby and Jenny Vila.

The session will comprise a panel and a workshop and will cover key issues relating to touring performing arts off-shore. The content for the workshop will be determined by your suggestions in the registration form.

9:00-9:15am Arrival /registration

9:15-10:15am Panel

10:15-10:30am Morning tea

10:30 -12:30pm Workshops

Submitting Your Registration

For a registration form, please contact Ana Sciascia, International Adviser: ana.sciascia@creativenz.govt.nz, or call Ana on ph 04 4730194 for further information.

Numbers are limited – first in first served!

The deadline for registrations is Monday 13 February 2012.

PRESENTERS

Fenn Gordon, Chief Executive, Performing Lines – Sydney www.performinglines.org.au

Fenn Gordon was appointed CEO of Performing Lines in June 2011. She moved from New Zealand to Australia in 2007 to join Performing Lines as the producer responsible for international projects. From 2009 – 2011 she was the Director, Market Development of the Australia Council, responsible for implementing strategies to develop markets for Australian artists and organisations nationally and internationally. Before crossing the Tasman, Fenn worked as an independent producer in New Zealand for eighteen years, where she managed the national and international careers of independent artists like Douglas Wright, Flight of the Conchords and Miranda Harcourt. She has written and taught extensively about touring and producing in the performing arts.

Laura Colby

Director, Elsie Management – New York

www.elsieman.org

Laura Colby is the Director of Elsie Management, a New York-based artist management company. Now in its seventeenth year, Elsie Management offers a celebrated roster of performing artists for engagements to performing arts centres, venues of all shapes and sizes, festivals, and special event programming. Colby is dedicated to promoting exceptional, award-winning performing artists and companies with singular visions that scope the traditional and experimental gamut of the performing arts. A frequently invited speaker for panels, workshops, and educational sessions, Colby was President of NAPAMA in 2008 & 2009 and served on the board of Dance/USA. From Australia, she represents Strange Fruit, Polyglot Theatre, and the composer David Chisholm.

Jenny Vila

Producer/ Lighting Designer – Perth

www.jennyvilakarpe.com

A multi-lingual international arts producer, lighting designer and project manager, Jenny is currently based in Perth, Western Australia. From 2005 to 2010 she was the International Producer for the Norfolk & Norwich Festival during which time the festival grew to be the fourth largest festival in the UK. Between 1999 and 2005 Jenny produced outdoor shows for the National Theatre in London, was Technical Manager for the Singapore Symphony Orchestra’sMusic Carousel Festival, Venue Director for the New York International Fringe Festival and Producer of the Festival Internacional de Teatre Visual i Titelles de Barcelona. In 2001 she was the founder director of Co-Coproductions, a company specialising in production and tour management for international arts projects.

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

Te Papa commissions performance art from Shigeyuki Kihara

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:19:57 +1300

New Zealand's leading performance artist Shigeyuki Kihara has been commissioned by Te Papa Tongarewa Museum of New Zealand to stage her iconic solo dance performance entitled 'Taualuga; the last dance' which draws on the classical Samoan taualuga dance to retell the cultural legacy of colonialism in Sāmoa from an indigenous perspective. A dancer in a restrictive Victorian mourning dress moves gracefully to a chant sung by village elders, unleashing the aitu (ancestor spirit).

Kihara created the piece in response to a series of historical photographs taken by Alfred John Tattersall, Thomas Andrew, and the Burton Brothers during the colonial administration of Sāmoa by New Zealand (1914–62). Many of these photographs are in Te Papa’s collections.

‘Taualuga: The Last Dance’ has so far been performed at the Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art, Queensland; Haus der Kulturen der Welt, Berlin; Musée du Quai Branly, Paris; and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York.

Kihara states ‘In the wake of celebrating the 50^th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence of the Independent State of Samoa this year in June, it is an honor and a privilege for me to perform ‘Taualuga: The Last Dance’ at a leading institution for New Zealand history, heritage and culture, a rich legacy which partly derives from its close relationship with Samoa together with the diaspora community in New Zealand. I hope that the commission of my performance from Te Papa contributes to the growing awareness of performance art as a serious discipline of Contemporary art practice in New Zealand.’

The video documentation of ‘Taualuga: The Last Dance’ (2006) is included in Te Papa’s current exhibition entitled ‘Collecting Contemporary’. This video work is also part of a permanent exhibition at Jean Marie Tjibaou Cultural Centrein New Caledonia.

Shigeyuki Kihara is a Samoan-born artist and curator. Her work has featured in several international contemporary art surveys and is held in a number of private and public collections, including at Te Papa and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York.

Free public performance: to be held 23 February 2012 at Te Papa, Toi Te Papa, Art of the Nation, Level 5, 4 - 4:15pm

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

Muriwai Beach prepares to celebrate Waitangi Day

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 22:02:08 +1300

Well known Polynesian musicians are joining a host of exciting artists in Muriwai (on Auckland's West Coast) next month, to celebrate the area's first Waitangi Day Festival.

One of New Zealand's best-loved artists, Anika Moa, will join popular South Auckland funksters Ardijah, the soulful Maisey Rika, world music trio Pacific Curls and local musicians including 15year old Majic and family band Muzacon, songstress Nat Rose (just back fromRhythm & Vines) and others.

"I'm looking forward to playing this show on Waitangi Day," says Anika Moa, "it will bring together an amazing bunch of musos and is set at Muriwai Beach, which is part of the path of our tupuna matua. It's very inspiring and humbling to get to be a part of this".

Set within native bush at Houghtons Bush Camp, the first Waitangi Day Muriwai Festival is a festival with a difference. Over 15 Muriwai Beach painters, photographers, sculptors and jewellers will be creating, exhibiting and selling new works for a special Waitangi Day Exhibition. A guided hikoi of small groups to a sacred site on the venue will be made available throughout the day while in between bands, a series of lively speakers and celebrities will sit in ‘the Treaty Hot Seat’ on stage.

All music, art, cuisine, korero and crafts will acknowledge 'Every Day is Waitangi Day’ and in keeping with the theme, the event will be smoke-free, drug-free, alcohol-free and operate with a zero waste policy.Due to the size of the site, tickets will be strictly limited.

Recent Muriwai resident Moana Maniapo will be launching the band Moana & the Tribe's new CD The Best of Moana & the Tribe at the festival and is looking forward to the creative celebration of Waitangi day.

"Muriwai is like an art colony," says Moana "there are so many visual artists, musicians and filmmakers living out here. I knew about the Matariki and Muriwai Music Festivals. I talked to another local singer Nat Rose about building a new event at Muriwai for Waitangi Day that brings visual and performing artists together under the theme ‘Every Day is Waitangi Day.’ Nat talked to someone, who talked to someone else…next minute, there’s a group of us and it’s all on."

All ticket proceeds will be donated towards the Muriwai Lifeguard Services Amenities Trust fundraiser for a new Club & Community Centre and Reweti Marae.

‘Muriwai needs a dedicated venue for community events as well as a new home for the lifeguards who most people probably take for granted until they need them.’

The Muriwai Waitangi Day Festival has received support from Auckland Council, Creative New Zealand and Te Puni Kokiri.

For more information visit the website: www.muriwaifestival.com

New Artistic Director announced for the New Zealand International Arts Festival

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 17:01:05 +1300

New Zealand-born Shelagh Magadza will be the new Artistic Director of the New Zealand International Arts Festival for 2014 and beyond.

Ms Magadza was Artistic Director of the past four Perth International Arts Festivals. She was appointed after a highly competitive selection process involving high-calibre applicants from around the world, says Festival Executive Chair, Kerry Prendergast.

“Shelagh is exceptionally talented and her artistic leadership of the last four Perth Festivals has been characterised by bold and imaginative artistic leadership, an appetite for risk and a focus on reaching into the community. Her programming at Perth contributed to significant growth in audience numbers and box office success during her tenure,’’ says Ms Prendergast.

The Perth Festival is the longest running annual international arts festival in the southern hemisphere, with a strong international reputation. In addition to her position as Perth’s Artistic Director, Ms Magadza was previously the festival’s Assistant Director.

Born in New Zealand, Ms Magadza lived in Zimbabwe until she was 20, before returning to New Zealand. Moving to Wellington in 2012 to take up her new position “gives me the opportunity to re-engage with a place that is one of the most exciting cultural centres in the region”, she says.

Prior to moving to Perth in 2002, Shelagh Magadza had a long and successful relationship with the New Zealand International Arts Festival, working for five Festivals in a variety of roles. She has also held positions with the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Harare International Arts Festival.

“Shelagh is a dynamic and inspiring arts sector leader who will bring an extraordinary combination of skills to her new role,” says Ms Prendergast. “She understands New Zealand audiences, she delivers programmes that are contemporary, inspiring and that take risks. She has a track record of attracting some of the world’s leading artists to her festivals and also commissioning new local works.’’

Ms Magadza will take up her new position in April next year, replacing the current New Zealand International Arts Festival Artistic Director, Lissa Twomey. Ms Twomey’s third and final New Zealand International Arts Festival opens on 24 February 2012.

Ms Prendergast said New Zealand International Arts Festival had been fortunate in attracting highly talented Artistic Directors and paid tribute to Ms Twomey’s programming since 2008. “Lissa’s three festivals have been characterised by exciting and lively programming. Her 2012 Festival is no exception and has already attracted huge interest and healthy ticket sales.’’

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.

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

Fringe Festival 2012 is on its way

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 13:45:00 +1300

NZ Fringe Festival 2012

A fierce, feisty, fabulous, Fringe Festival is ready to roll out some colourful mayhem in the Cultural Capital, from 10 February until 3 March 2012.

We’ve got three weeks celebrating weird and wonderful expressions of art – over 60 Visual, Music, Dance and Theatre performances will be found in 30 sites around the city featuring hundreds of participants!

And we are really excited to see 20 of these performances are free or koha!

Heading the Fringe Festival 2012 is Producer Emma Flack who is proud to be bringing together some of Wellington’s iconic festivals under the banner of The Creative Capital Arts Trust.

Emma says “As a first timer to Fringe, I am astounded to see the creativity and passion that has gone into the 2012 Fringe shows. We have everything from superheroes and space bitches to traditional dancers from Ghana, from garden gnomes from the Netherlands to a poet laureate, as well as several shows direct from the Edinburgh and Adelaide Fringe festivals. It’s what Fringe Festivals are all about – and I feel privileged to be part of it!”

Joining the Fringe Team are two huge fans of the Fringe Festival, Hannah Clarke as Artist Liaison and Brianne Kerr as Publicist.

"I'm super excited to be part of this years NZ Fringe Festival,” says Hannah.“ Having been involved in over 10 Fringe shows in previous years plus venues and events, it's great to be in the Fringe again and now on the other side. I really can't wait for February. It's going to be choice!"

The Fringe Festival 2012 will be a joyous symphony of rap comedy, classical poetry, stunt comedy, rock opera, alternative fashion show, puppetry, circus, choir, and much, much more!

The Fringe festival programme will be launched on February 26th.

For more info check out www.fringe.co.nz<http://www.fringe.co.nz>

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.

Dance and politics a unique mix

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 15:06:00 +1300

The late Rona Bailey was a Wellingtonian who studied with pioneers of modern dance in New York and founded the New Dance Group, with Philip and Olive Smithells, in Wellington in 1945.

The work of the New Dance Group will be presented in the biennial Rona Bailey Memorial Lecture on Tuesday 22 November. This will be a rare chance to see an unusual part of New Zealand’s dance history.

Auckland historian Marianne Schultz’s talk, ‘Dance is a Weapon’, will be illustrated by photographs and excerpts from Shirley Horrocks’ 2008 film Dance of the Instant: The New Dance Group Wellington 1945 – 1947. Marianne will also introduce a short live performance specially prepared by students of the New Zealand School of Dance: a reconstruction of the 1945 New Dance Group piece Sabotage in a Factory.

Marianne Schultz says: ‘The New Dance Group engaged with strong political themes in their work, an approach very much in tune with Rona Bailey’s life and values. Inspired by local and international political movements, as well as the emerging modern dance of America, Rona believed that dance “had a role to play in reflecting life and what it could be. It could be a challenge to people.”’

According to organising group member, Hazel Armstrong: ‘The lecture should appeal to people with a dance background as well as to those interested in Trade Union and left-wing history. It’s a great bonus that we are holding the Lecture in the Rona Bailey Room at the Dance School.’

The Rona Bailey Memorial Lecture is sponsored every two years by the Labour History Project (formerly the Trade Union History Project), of which Rona Bailey (1914-2005) was a long-time, active member.

The 2011 Rona Bailey Memorial Lecture will start at 5.45pm sharp, Tuesday 22 November 2011 at the Rona Bailey Room, Te Whaea, National Dance and Drama Centre, 11 Hutchison Road, Newtown, Wellington. Entry by koha.

For further information, contact Marianne Schultz, (09 308 9072; 0210 23 12340) or email: mschultz@iconz.co.nz.

Alternative contact: Hazel Armstrong, (04 473 6767) or hazel.armstrong@gmail.com

Entry by koha.

For information about the Labour History Project (formerly the Trade Union History Project) see www.lhp.org.nz.

14th New Zealand Performing Arts Market announced for 5 & 6 March 2012, Wellington

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:53:00 +1300

This exciting event is to be held in the heart of Wellington’s prestigious waterfront at the purpose-built Te Raukura – Te Wharewaka o Poneke, from 5 & 6 March 2012. Registrations are currently open for both artists/producers (closing 25 November), and festivals/venues (closing 10 February).

The New Zealand Performing Arts Market is hosted once yearly by PANNZ (the Performing Arts Network of New Zealand) and provides a unique opportunity for presenters, venues and festivals to connect with artists, creators and producers.

The Market is New Zealand’s sole marketplace for the promotion of professional tour-ready dance, theatre and music productions. As well as a launching pad for finished works, it is an essential forum for building relationships, partnerships, and sharing seedling ideas that then develop into our shows of the future.

Attended by festival directors, venue managers, artists, producers and industry stakeholders, the Market is also a key opportunity for individuals and companies working in performing arts across Aotearoa to discuss and debate the issues facing our industry, and to build capacity within the sector.

Market Coordinator Mark Westerby says the Market has been growing steadily since it began in 1999 and that last years Market in Auckland drew record numbers. This year’s Market offers a professional but relaxed environment to introduce your company/production to potential partners and presenters. It is timed to coincide in Wellington with the New Zealand International Arts Festival and the Wellington Fringe Festival. Programme highlights of the Market include:

Pitch Sessions, in which Artist/Producers have 15 minutes to profile their work (with audiovisual support) to an audience of festivals and venues. This is a curated programme of tour-ready work decided by selection panel.
Breakfast of Bright Ideas, providing an opportunity for artists to introduce a new concept or work in development to a wider group. Presenters may identify projects to champion in future, or just enjoy a fun and creative start to their day. Length of presentations will be 2 – 4 minutes, pending the number of submissions.
The Exhibition Space, which creates the opportunity for artists/producers and industry organisations to showcase themselves at display booths. Market catering is served in the Exhibition space, ensuring high visibility and foot traffic through this area.
Workshops, a programme to share knowledge, diversify skills and build capability of the sector. This will include a walking tour of Wellington’s venues and panel or keynote discussions on key industry issues.

The New Zealand Performing Arts Market is happening in 2012 with the generous support of
Creative New Zealand.

For more information, to register, or to pitch your work, go to www.pannz.org.nz.

Or contact the PANNZ Co-ordinator:

Mark Westerby
Market Co-ordinator
PANNZ
PO Box 6513
Marion Square
Wellington 6011
Office: 04 802 3960
mark@pannz.org.nz

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.

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.

Festival of Pacific Arts 2012 application reminder

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 09:57:00 +1300

Applications to represent Aotearoa/New Zealand at the 11th Festival of Pacific Arts close at the end of this month (October 2011).

Māori and New Zealand-based Pacific artists are encouraged to take the opportunity to present a distinct Aotearoa voice at this premier arts and culture event for the peoples of the Pacific.

The Festival of Pacific Arts takes places every four years bringing together more than 2000 artists and other cultural practitioners.

In July next year a Creative New Zealand led delegation will participate in the 11th Festival of Arts in Honiara, Solomon Islands. Invitations are extended to the indigenous people of each country and Creative New Zealand is supporting and co-ordinating the New Zealand delegation.

“As tangata whenua of New Zealand, Te Waka Toi, the Māori arts board of Creative New Zealand has extended the invitation to Pacific artists based in New Zealand,” said Te Waka Toi Chair Darrin Haimona.

Mr Haimona says, “This is an opportunity for Māori and Pacific artists to share their artistry and cultural traditions, with a view to the future. Ultimately, the chosen artists will represent the best of traditional and contemporary arts from Aotearoa New Zealand”.

Expressions of interest are sought from accomplished and emerging Māori and New Zealand-based Pacific artists. The opportunity is open to individual artists and groups that practice a wide range of artforms, including heritage and contemporary arts.

Selected works will relate to the festival’s theme, "Culture in Harmony with Nature".

Aotearoa New Zealand has sent a delegation to every festival since 1972 and has included weavers, sculptors, carvers, theatre groups, storytellers, dancers, musicians and kapa haka.

The application form, selection criteria and information about the festival’s theme are available on the Creative New Zealand website: www.creativenz.govt.nz

Applications close Monday 31 October 2011, 5.00pm.

Request for exhibition proposals from Christchurch based artists

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 14:33:00 +1200

Expressions of interest for solo and group exhibitions by artists based in Christchurch are requested for the period January — December 2012 in Chambers@241 art gallery at 241 Moorhouse Avenue, Christchurch.

Proposal will be considered for exhibitions in either of two gallery spaces or in both. The
gallery spaces available are:

52 Square metres with 21 running metres of wall space.
22 Square metres with 11 running metres of wall space.

Proposals are requested by emaii. Please state:

Which gallery space or spaces you wish to use
Which month you wish to exhibit in (Choose a preferred month)
Dimensions and media of works for exhibition
Optional: A short statement about your practice and an exhibition title
Any requirements regarding installation, hanging placement of work, use of technical equipment, etc
2 to 4 images of your current work

Please email your proposal, no later than 20 November 2011 to: warrenfeeney@xtra.co.nz. This is the second of three requests for expressions of interest.

A selection panel consisting of Warren Feeney, Ronald Mottram and Felicity Milburn, Curator at Christchurch Art Gallery will consider all proposals. Artists will be notiﬁed regarding the success or otherwise of their proposal no later than 9 December.

Chambers@241 will promote the exhibition with an exhibition opening, media releases and listings in newspapers, magazines and websites.

If you have any queries regarding your proposal, please email: warrenfeeney@xtra.co.nz

Proposals held over from the previous request for submissions will be reconsidered.

Chambers@241 is supported by Creative New Zealand, Placemakers Riccarton and the CPIT Facaulty of Creative Industries.