Creative New Zealand : Pacific arts 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.

Nominations called for Creative New Zealand Arts Pasifika Awards 2012

Fri, 18 May 2012 12:19:46 +1200

Nominations for the Creative New Zealand Arts Pasifika Awards 2012 are now open. The five awards celebrate excellence and innovation in Pacific arts in New Zealand.

The annual awards offer the public a chance to acknowledge artists who best characterise the richness and diversity of high-quality Pacific art in this country. Artists can be emerging or established, and practice either heritage or contemporary artforms.

Established in 1996, this year sees a change in nomination criteria to ensure even more quality Pacific artists have the chance to be honoured. The Iosefa Enari Memorial Award is now open to Pacific musicians or composers from all classical genres and career stages, as well as opera singers. For the first time artists who would like to nominate themselves are able to do so.

The Creative New Zealand Arts Pasifika Awards 2012 are:

Senior Pacific Artist's Award ($10,000) recognises the contribution of a senior established Pacific artist in maintaining or developing their artform in New Zealand.
Pacific Heritage Arts Award ($5000) recognises an artist who has made a major contribution to maintaining, reviving or promoting a Pacific heritage artform in New Zealand. This may include language, dance, traditional music, weaving or tatau.
Pacific Contemporary Arts Award ($5000) recognises an artist who has demonstrated innovation within their artform. Artists must have a track record and have achieved in their chosen field. Recognition will be given to those who work in a unique artform, or those who continually push the boundaries of their practice.
Iosefa Enari Memorial Award ($4000) recognises the contribution of the late Iosefa Enari to the arts, in particular his pioneering role in Pacific opera. This award supports the career development of an individual Pacific singer, musician or composer across all classical genres and career stages.
Emerging Pacific Artists’ Award ($4000) recognises an emerging artist showing promise and potential in their chosen art form. The purpose of this award is to recognise achievement at this developmental stage ensuring that the artist will develop their career in their chosen field.

The closing date for nominations is 5pm, Friday 22 June 2012. Nomination guidelines and forms can be downloaded directly from the Creative New Zealand website or by searching 'Browse by Artform', 'Pacific Arts'.

An awards ceremony will be held on 14 November 2012 in Wellington.

The recipients of the Creative New Zealand Arts Pasifika Awards 2011 were:

Emerging Pacific Artist’s Award to Tongan visual artist Kulimoe'anga Stone Maka
Iosefa Enari Memorial Award to Samoan soprano Marlena Devoe
Pacific Heritage Arts Award to master weaver Kalameli Ihaia-Alefosio
Contemporary Pacific Artist’s Award to visual artist Janet Lilo
Senior Pacific Artist’s Award to performing artist Annie Crummer.

For information about nominations and the awards please contact:

Makerita Urale

Senior Adviser, Pacific Arts

04 498 0729

makerita.urale@creativenz.govt.nz

Samoa-New Zealand artistic exchange to celebrate Samoan Independence 2012

Thu, 10 May 2012 09:39:58 +1200

Seven Samoan artists will visit New Zealand for a week in June as part of a cultural exchange celebrating Samoa’s 50^th anniversary of independence and the close ties between Samoa, New Zealand and their peoples.

Creative New Zealand, together with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, Auckland Museum and Mangere Arts Centre - Ngā Tohu o Uenuku will mark Samoa’s Golden Jubilee with a programme of public demonstrations and workshops.

In 1962 Western Samoa became independent of New Zealand after a period of trusteeship from 1919. At this time they signed a Treaty of Friendship which underpins today’s official relationship.

Samoan Independence Day is celebrated on 1 June every year in Samoa, and among the New Zealand Samoan community of more than 130,000 people.

The visiting Samoan artists specialise in heritage arts and will participate in a week of activities in Auckland and Wellington.

Auckland Mayor Len Brown will welcome the artists at a pōwhiri at Mangere Arts Centre on Saturday 9 June 2012. Auckland Museum, Mangere Arts Centre and Te Papa will each run their own public programme. Members of the Samoa artist delegation will also visit 50^th anniversary activities at Victoria University Library in Wellington.

“This exchange recognises the history of Samoa and New Zealand’s relationship, supports the future of Pacific heritage arts in New Zealand, and brings together Pasifika and Māori artists who share so much common ground. It’s a great way for us all to celebrate together,” says Creative New Zealand Chief Executive Stephen Wainwright.

The artists include tattooist Paul Junior Sulu’ape, son of master tattooist Sulu’ape Petelofrom the legendary tatau family Sulu’ape, supported by assistant Heperona Seiuli; two ‘ie toga (fine mat) weavers, ‘Auomala Folasa-Solo andSavelina Afa’ese from Savai’i; two master carvers, Suimatua Kiripele Umu Alaia who is also a matai and expert orator and Felise Ioane who has many years of expertise in sennit making. Sennit is a type of woven cord used in architecture, boat building, fishing and as decoration throughout the Pacific.

The group will be led by Galumalemana Steven Percival, a matai and video maker, who will act as interpreter and liaison for the artists, many of whom have not travelled outside of Samoa. Galumalemana, an independent filmmaker, has produced a number of films capturing Samoa's cultural heritage and is the founder of the Tiapapata Art Centre which was established to promote traditional and contemporary Samoan arts and crafts.

Highlights of the artists’ time in New Zealand include a Samoa ‘Ava ceremony at Auckland Museum, a pōwhiri at Mangere Arts Centre and the artists’ involvement during Te Papa’s Matariki Festival. It is hoped the cultural exchange will give New Zealand communities access to expert Pacific arts practitioners and that positive relationships will be formed, strengthened and advanced.

ENDS

Artist in Residence opportunity at National University of Samoa 2012

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 10:09:31 +1200

Creative New Zealand, in partnership with the National University of Samoa, is offering a three month artist residency in Apia, Samoa for 2012.

The residency runs from August until October. It is open to established Pacific Island artists who are resident in New Zealand.

50th Anniversary of Samoa Independence and Treaty of Friendship with New Zealand

This year (2012) marks the 50th anniversary of Samoan Independence and the Treaty of Friendship between New Zealand and Samoa. To acknowledge these events, Creative New Zealand is particularly interested in projects that have a theme which aligns with the anniversary celebrations and New Zealand-Samoa relationships.

It is important for applicants to be aware that material resources and technology available in New Zealand, are comparatively limited in the Pacific. Applicants are encourgaed to take this into account as they plan their project proposals.

Previous recipients

The 2011 recipient was Auckland-based installation artist Tiffany Singh. Tiffany worked with local communities to rejuvenate an overgrown Peace Garden on the grounds of the university. After the garden was refreshed with sculpture, handmade prayer flags and donated plants, it was opened to the public with live music and performance.

“This was a journey that revived my sense of spirit. It not only fuelled my creative process but made me more complete as a person. For that I am eternally grateful,” said Tiffany.

During her residency, Tiffany also spent time at the Tiapapata Art Centreon Mt Fiamoe where she created work which reflected her experience in Samoa, Itu Papa Itu Lagi ; Part Rock Part Heaven.

Other previous recipients include actor and director Nathaniel Lees, playwright Fiona Collins and the late curator Jim Vivieaere.

Residency support

Creative New Zealand will offer the selected artist financial support by way of:

a total stipend of NZ$10,000 for three months
up to NZ$2,000 towards travel costs; including one return airfare - New Zealand to Apia, Samoa (as well as internal New Zealand flights as required) and insurance
up to NZ$3000 (being no more than NZ$1,000 per month for three months) towards the costs of rental accommodation in Samoa for the resident.

The closing date for applications is 5.00pm Monday 21 May 2012.

The 2012 Creative New Zealand/National University of Samoa artist in residence will be announced by 30 June 2012.

For information about how to apply for this residency, see the Creative New Zealand website.

ENDS

Enquiries

For more information about the residency please contact:

Makerita Urale

Senior Arts Adviser – Pacific Arts

makerita.urale@creativenz.govt.nz

04 498 0729

For media enquiries please contact:

Pirimia Burger

Communications Advisor (Māori and Pacific)

04 498 0727

pirimia.burger@creativenz.govt.nz

Opera in Paradise anyone? Gifted voices, lush gardens, cool island breeze...

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 13:47:41 +1200

You are invited to an intimate and distinguished event creating a fine union of true Cook Islands atmosphere and style, Opera in Paradise Cook Islands.

2012 sees New Zealand's finest sopranos, Mere Boynton and Deborah Kapohe taking the stage at Crown Beach Resort and Spa’s Oceans restaurant where Motone Productions and the Crown Beach team will transform the venue into a performance setting framed with lush tropical gardens and a turquoise lagoon at sunset. Your Opera house for the evening promises fine cuisine and stunning Opera performance.

Talented sopranos Mere and Deborah have toured internationally and performed on a variety of stages including the Royal Albert Hall in London, ‘Opera in the Pa’ Rotorua, Te Papa- New Zealand’s National Museum and more recently the New Zealand Rugby World Cup stage.

Both Mere and Deborah have careers that celebrate their many skills. Mere is well known for her supporting roles in the acclaimed New Zealand Films “ Once Were Warriors” and “ The Maori Merchant of Venice”. Mere has collaborated with leading New Zealand percussionist and composer Gareth Farr and is well respected for her ability to cross genres from Opera to light Jazz always including her love for waiata Maori. Having performed throughout New Zealand and Europe Mere brings a confidence and skill to Opera in Paradise Cook Islands that will surprise and delight.

Deborah has most recently performed in the critically acclaimed “Hohepa” presented at the 2012 New Zealand Festival of the Arts by the NBR New Zealand Opera. She has worked in Australia, China, South Africa and the UK and has an Opera performance resume that includes the traditional favourites of Carmen, The Pearl Fishers, The Marriage of Figaro, La Boheme, The Magic Flute to name a few. To add to that Deborah has been requested to perform for touring royalty to New Zealand and performed at the both the Beijing and Sydney Olympics Arts festivals. With her wealth of experience Deborah’s performance will leave you applauding for more.

Opera in Paradise Cook Islands takes place May 25-26 2012. For more information about the show and how to buy tickets, contact VIBE PACIFIC – Hiria Rae 0274521521.

For those in the Cook Islands, contact Glenda Tuaine email glenda@motone.biz +682 21077

Tawata Productions' World premiere season of new work, "Sunset Road"

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 10:07:10 +1200

Sunset Road is the much anticipated stage play from controversial New Zealand born Cook Islands playwright, Miria George.

Miria’s plays include the provocative and what remains, boutique musical He Reo Aroha (co-written with Jamie McCaskill), and the gritty Urban Hymns, which have been performed in international festivals around the world including the United Kingdom, Hawai’i, Australia and Canada to much acclaim.

Sunset Road is Miria’s first stageplay since the unflinching Urban Hymns in 2009. Her focus recently has been producing theatre, with works including the multi award winning I, George Nepia in 2011 and the epic Tu for the New Zealand International Arts Festival in 2012.

Miria’s journey from poet, to playwright to theatre producer now sees a welcome return to playwrighting with this coming of age drama. Schooled in New Zealand, the Cooks Islands and Costa Rica, Miria is the daughter of renown Cook Islands visual artist Ian George.

Sunset Road is Miria's first play focussing on her Cook Islands whakapapa. The world premiere season will be perfomred at Circa Theatre, 1 Taranaki Street, Wellington: June 20 – July 7, 2012.

Sunset Road is written and directed by Miria George and features design by Tony de Goldi (New Zealand International Arts Festival 2012 Hohepa), Ulli Briese (New Zealand International Arts Festival 2012 Tu), Karnan Saba (New Zealand International Arts Festival 2012 Tu) and Cook Islands dancer and choreographer Tai Paitai.

Sunset Road is a highlight event of Wellington’s Matariki Celebrations, which runs alongside Matariki Development Festival 2012, an international indigenous playwrights festival also at Circa Theatre.

For more information, high-res images and to arrange interviews, please contact:
Hone Kouka, Tawata Productions

021 128 9004

tawata@tawata.co.nz

Synopsis
Akarongo mai...
Summer, 1975. Rotorua, New Zealand.
Jimi Hendrix, motorbikes, ika mata and the dawn raids.

It’s two days before twins Luka and Lucia finally cross in to adulthood. Free, they roam the steam filled streets of Rotorua on Luka’s trusty Bonneville and dream of taking on the world. Luka desperate to escape, Lucia to become Miss Geyserland.

The twins work with their devout father at the local sawmill, uninspiring to them, for him where he has been since he first brought his family to this dry and broken land. A near death experience drags father back to memories of Atiu, Cook Islands and the secrets and mistakes of his past, shaking the family’s foundations and ultimate love of each other.

A coming of age. Sunset Road.

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 announces delegation to Festival of Pacific Arts 2012

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 14:42:22 +1300

Around 100 Māori and New Zealand-based Pacific artists will represent Aotearoa alongside 27 other Pacific nations at the 11th Festival of Pacific Arts in July this year.

Considered the premier arts and culture event for the Pacific region, this is a government-to-government invitation with Te Waka Toi, the Māori Arts Board of Creative New Zealand, responsible for Aotearoa’s representation. Te Arikinui King Tūheitia will lead the delegation as traditional head.

Māori and Pasifika voices

Invitations to the festival have been made to indigenous peoples of the Pacific, and Māori have extended their invitation to New Zealand-based Pacific artists.

“As tangata whenua our story is unique. Part of that story is our relationship with all peoples of Te Moana Nui a Kiwa, so we are proud to collaborate with Pasifika artists. Together we will showcase the best of Māori and Pacific art from Aotearoa - both traditional and contemporary,” said Darrin Haimona, Chair of Te Waka Toi and formal leader of the delegation.

Pele Walker, Chair of the Pacific Arts Committee of Creative New Zealand said, "for New Zealand-based Pasifika artists, this is an important opportunity to reconnect with their origins while presenting a new perspective, shaped by their life in New Zealand."

Artists from North and South

Artists were invited to submit expressions of interest to participate in the delegation. Among those selected are weaver Emaraina Small (Napier), poet Daren Kamali (Auckland), sculptors Carla Ruka (Auckland) and Will Ngakuru (Northland), painter Priscilla Cowie (North Canterbury), Pacific Underground (Auckland) and Koile (Dunedin).

Travelling to the Solomon Islands is especially poignant for one artist. Steven Gwaliasi grew up on Malaita Island, but has lived in New Zealand for more than 20 years. Based in Hokitika, Steven is a sculptor, carver, jewellery maker and teacher. He combines Melanesian imagery and West Coast resources, with much of his work made from pounamu.

Husband and wife team Jeffrey Addison and Whaitaima Te Whare (Taupo) are part of a revival movement of a lesser known Māori artform, puppet theatre. They will present the story, Tāwhaki and the Māori Potatoes using karetao (carved marionettes). Also traditional puppeteers, musician Jerome Kavanagh (Taihape) and James Webster (Whitianga) will participate in the festival. James is celebrated for his work with taonga pūoro, tā moko and sculpture. He recently featured in the MāoriTroilus and Cressida which will be performed in Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre in April.

The performing arts including kapa haka, contemporary dance and an evolution of Māori performance developed 100 years ago called Haka Theatre, are strongly represented by reigning national kapa haka champion Te Mātārae i Orehu (Rotorua), leading contemporary dance company Atamira (Auckland) and multi-disciplinary performers, Kura Te Ua and Ngarino Watt (Auckland).

Niuean writer Dianna Fuemana (Auckland) will be joined by daughter Reid Elisaia and nephew Ali Foai to stage her play Birds. Dianna recently won a 2012 United States Screenwriting Internship Scholarship, securing a three month placement at Killer Films, New York.

In her early 70s, master weaver Misa Emma Keshsa (Dunedin) brings decades of experience. Taught to weave as a child in Samoa, Emma’s subsequent years of sharing knowledge with communities here and overseas, earned her the Queen's Service Medal in 2011.

A group of tohunga of Māori heritage artforms will also join the delegation, adding their expertise, reputation and mana to Aotearoa/New Zealand’s presence at the festival.

The overall group will travel with support from the Ministry of Defence who have donated the use of an RNZAF Boeing 757 for the journey to Honiara and back. Creative New Zealand has invested $500,000 to support Aotearoa New Zealand’s presence at the festival and will provide on the ground support staff in collaboration with the New Zealand High Commission in Honiara.

The 11th Festival of Pacific Arts runs from 1- 13 July 2012. Information about the artists in the delegation can be found on the Creative New Zealand website. Aotearoa New Zealand has sent a delegation to every festival since 1972.

ENDS

For media inquiries please contact:

Pirimia Burger

Communications adviser, Māori and Pacific

04 498 0727 027 290 1606

pirimia.burger@creativenz.govt.nz

Pacific Arts facebook page - join the conversation!

Pacific pot luck lunch at Pasifika Festival 2012

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 14:41:56 +1300

Creative New Zealand will be celebrating the arts and hosting a Pasifika Pot Luck lunch amongst the colour, fragrance, sights and sounds of Auckland’s Pasifika Festival 2012.

Known to draw a crowd of 200,000 in one day to Western Springs Park, Creative New Zealand is proud to support this annual festival of Pacific arts and culture.

Pasifika artists, arts organisations and Creative New Zealand staff are teaming up to share arts news, bounce ideas, answer questions and explain funding opportunities to anyone who wants to drop in to the Creative New Zealand tent.

A warm invitation is also open to join a shared Pasifika Pot Luck lunch from 12- 2pm. Bring a plate to site number #136 in the International/Yellow Section and join in. The Creative New Zealand tent is next to Gate B car parking, access from Bullock Track.

Take this chance to find out what is happening in Pacific arts in Aotearoa, meet some of the best Pacific artists and cool off from the festival crowds.

Pacific Arts facebook page - join the conversation!

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.

Glastonbury Festival & Womad talent scouts seek NZ musicians

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:01:51 +1300

Sounds Aotearoa 2012 is proud to announce a power-packed line-up of festival bookers and presenters this year that will be in attendance at its 2 day “think tank / showcase” in New Plymouth.

Returning this year is Malcolm Haynes from Glastonbury Festival who has become a valuable champion of NZ music in the UK and this year brings with him Glastonbury Festival’s World Music Stage director, Derek Dodd. And for the first time, the powerhouse duo ofPaula Henderson and Chris Smith of Womad International will be in attendance.

Sounds Aotearoa has stacked up an impressive array of successes including 2011 attendees Electric Wire Hustle and Bella Kalolo performing at Glastonbury and The Big Chill in the UK. Maisey Rika has been able to travel to Hawaii and mainland U.S. and Moana and The Tribe, Batucada Sound Machine, Pacific Curls and 1814 have had opportunities across Asia-Pacific including Penang, Korea and across Australia.

Sounds Aotearoa is designed to expose NZ music to the global market and build capacity within the industry and to also expose the overseas delegates to some of NZ’s finest talent via performance showcases. With presenters from major festivals like Womad, Glastonbury, Vision Sound and Music (UK), Sziget Festival (Hungary) andDreaming Festival (Australia), Sounds Aotearoa gives NZ musicians valuable insight & the face to face connections they need to break into overseas markets.

The line-up of presenters also includes: Andrew Messingham from the Vision, Sound & Music Event(UK), and Min Kim from Ulsan World Music Festival (Korea). Simon Raynor (AWME Melbourne), Fruszina Szep (Sziget Festival, Hungary) andJordan Verzaar (Top Shelf Productions,Australia) are joined by local industry experts David McLaughlin (McLaughlin Law) and Jeffery Stothers (Southbound Music Distrubtion). Returning is Vicki Gordon (VGM Media, Australia), Sam Cook from Dreaming Festival (Australia) for the currently confirmed line-up.

Launched in 2010 by director Emere Wano (Tihi) in conjunction with the Taranaki Arts and Festival Trust (TAFT), Sounds Aotearoa deliberately precedes the ever popular Womad New Zealand festival so that international guests can take in both of these national events and experience five days of the best of national and international sounds and networking opportunities.

Sounds Aotearoa will take place on Wednesday 14 and Thursday 15 March 2012 at TSB Showplace, 92 Devon St, New Plymouth, Taranaki.

Registrations for the conference aspect of the two-day event are open now via the official website www.soundsaotearoa.com

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

‘Culture for Sale; a Post-colonial Völkerschau’ - a lecture by Shigeyuki Kihara

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 11:08:51 +1300

Duration: 45 minute talk and 15 minute Q & A

In August 2011 performance artist Shigeyuki Kihara travelled to Germany with the support of the Visitor's program from the Goethe-Institut to investigate museum archives held across Germany to research materials related to the German administration of Samoa from 1900 till 1914.

Kihara’s presentation accompanied by a power point presentation traces the historical footprints of several groups of Samoans including men, women and small children who travelled and toured extensively across cities in Germany including Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Munich and Cologne where they were exhibited in a zoo - a practise commonly known as ‘Völkerschau’ a popular form of exotic entertainment and colonial theatre at the time.

The title of the presentation ‘Culture for Sale’ is the same title of a live public performance and multimedia installation conceived by Kihara staged during the Sydney Festival in January 2012. Conceptually informed by the Samoan participation in the ‘Völkerschauen’, ‘Culture for Sale’ explores the close relationship between performance, identity, power and money.

The presentation will discuss how Samoan identity as ‘the other’ was contextualised under German colonialism, and whether the surrounding ideas of ‘the other’ continues to resonate in the daily lives of Samoan people in the so called ‘post-colonial’ era in the wake of the 50th Anniversary of the Independence of Samoa in June 2012.

For more information please visit:

http://www.pataka.org.nz/node/355

www.shigeyukikihara.com

Prominent Samoan artist responds to Christchurch's survivor spirit

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:37:08 +1300

In post-earthquake Christchurch issues concerning the creative re-growth and rebuild of a community have been of particular concern to Fatu Feu’u.

Ola, explains the artist, ‘explores the affection for or love we have for where we come from.’

His solo exhibition, opening next month, is named with a Samoan word that functions as both noun and verb. Ola means ‘life’ and ‘to create life.’ Feu’u plays with the two merging concepts of Ola in his exhibition, exploring the human capacity to love, hope and grow in times of adversity.

In 2011, to mark the 15th anniversary of the Macmillan Brown Pacific Artist in residence programme, Fatu Feu’u (the first recipient in 1996) returned to Christchurch to complete a second residency. As part of this, Feu’u researched and wrote a new body of poetry which will be published accompanied by a series of lithographs. The paintings in Ola were produced as the foundation for this upcoming publication.

Born in Samoa 1946, Fatu Feu’u settled in New Zealand in 1966. A senior contemporary artist,Feu’u is an adept painter, printmaker, sculptor, designer and poet. He is also considered as both a leader and mentor within the Pacific arts community in New Zealand.

Drawing on his Samoan heritage as well as life in Aotearoa, his work combines traditional and contemporary myth and motif to articulate a graphic visual vernacular. Feu’u has exhibited regularly both nationally and internationally. His work is held in major collections such as the National Gallery, Brisbane; Auckland City Art Gallery; Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, Wellington and Waikato Museum of Art and History, Hamilton.

For further information and images please contact:

Lydia Baxendell, Art Collections Curator

University of Canterbury

Phone: (03) 364 2987 ex 8669

Email: lydia.baxendell@canterbury.ac.nz

"Music and Me": A story of music as redemption

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 10:47:02 +1300

"A family forged, even in the darkest of places"

Music and Me, a riveting new work by Manurewa-based emerging playwright Victoria Schmidt has its world premiere at the Mangere Arts Centre - Ngā Tohu o Uenuku this month.

Music and Me is raw and poetic, while also funny, with fantastic lines. It is guaranteed to pull at your heartstrings.

The story tells of the harsh realities of four individuals, struggling to survive in a forgotten world of prostitution, mental illness, substance abuse, depression and risking all for a dream that is in the eye of the beholder.

"The play highlights universal themes through deep, heartfelt and outspoken characters," explains Victoria.

"on the whole, this story is about survival, broken hope, and the importance of friendship."

Music and Me is Victoria's first, full-length, professionally produced play. New Zealand-born and of Samoan background, Victoria is an acting graduate of the UNITEC School of Performing Screen Arts. She has been seen in numerous theatre productions, most recently in The Factory by Kila Kokonut Krew in 2011.

"This show is about creating awareness of every day people, surviving in the only way they know how,"she says.

Directed by Asalemo Tofete (Toi Whakaari acting graduate, The Minister's Son, Angels in America Part I: Millenium Approaches, Polyzygotic, The Factory). The production features some of New Zealand's best seasoned and upcoming Pacific talent. The cast includes Iaheto Ah Hi (Sione's Wedding, The Market, Matariki, Running With the Bulls,Tautai. Sione's 2: Unfinished Business), Toi Whakaari acting graduate Natano Keni (Privates VS Ninjas, Once Were Samoans), the playwright Victoria Schmidt (Sione's Wedding, Running With The Bulls, Othello Polynesia, Tautai, The Factory) and recent Pacific Institute of Performing Arts graduate and choreographer Amanaki Lelei Prescott-Faletua (Mixed Nuts, Pollyhood in Mumuland, VOGUE).

A resident of Manurewa, Victoria says it was important to set the play in South Auckland, to support the story and to reflect our unique society that is full of colourful characters.

Funded with the support of the Auckland Council Creative New Zealand Communities Scheme, Music and Me will be on show at the Mangere Arts Centre from for a five-night season, opening on Tuesday 14 February.

ENDS

About the Show:
Music and Mefollows the lives and friendships of four outcasts living on the same poverty-stricken street - an old man sinking deeper into dementia, a male hustler-addict always looking to make a quick buck, a street poet who finds solace in gracing the public with her passion for rhyme, and a business-minded drag queen who runs the local beauty parlour.
This is a story that reveals how music can soothe a troubled mind and the desperate measures taken to be able to survive in a forgotten world.

Credits:

Written by Victoria Schmidt.

Directed by Asalemo Tofete

For more information, please contact:

Asalemo Tofete (Director)

Phone: 021 2092942

Email: asalemo.tofete@gmail.com

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.

Young artists to challenge seductive Pacific stereotypes

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 16:59:21 +1300

A lively new Auckland exhibition, The Anatomy of Paradise will challenge romantic Western stereotypes of Pacific nations being tropical, carefree, utopias filled with meek, bronzed, island maidens.

Opening on 21 February at Artstation, Ponsonby The Anatomy of Paradise will feature emerging Pacific artists including photographer Tanu Gago, performance artists Nastashia Simeona and Kalisolaite ‘Uhila, multi-media artists Ahilapalapa Rands, Vaimaila Urale and Darcell Apelu. Artist talks and live performances on Saturday 25 February will feature in the exhibition programme which is supported by Tautai Contemporary Pacific Arts Trust.

Exhibition curator, 2011 co-host of TVNZ’s Tagata Pasifika, Angela Tiatia says, “we will use the body to express ideas of identity and examine what it means to have your identity interpreted by someone else”. Ms Tiatia explains, “the aim is to present identity as fluid, a mix of circumstances and a construct of the multiple worlds all of us live in”.

Inspired by a 1947 book which questioned the period’s artistic representation of the South Pacific, the exhibition will consider how the modern Pacific identity is shaped through spirituality, risk, community, health, fear, loss, sexuality, politics, technology and economics.

Coinciding with the Pasifika Festival 2012, the world’s largest Pacific event of its kind, Ms Tiatia sees an important opportunity to showcase emerging Pacific contemporary artists to a large, new audience.

“We need alternative voices and art forms among largely heritage arts displays. We want to expose audiences to new and emerging ideas of Pacific identities, to stir debate and a new way of seeing ourselves. This is a chance to reflect the modern Pacific community to itself, as well as other communities who share the same passion for understanding and the arts.”

The Anatomy of Paradise opens on Tuesday 21 February and runs until Saturday 10 March 2012.

For media inquiries please contact:

Angela Tiatia, exhibition curator

Sydney based until her arrival in Auckland, New Zealand 18 February - 22 February.

+0061 4000 66 555 (Sydney mobile - two hours behind New Zealand time)

angelatiatia@gmail.com

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

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

Event for world’s best in modern and traditional tattoo art

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 16:59:34 +1300

New Zealand’s premier tattoo event, Auckland International Tattoo Convention, once again plays host to more than 60 of the world’s biggest names in tattoo art and performance.

The artists include renowned Tatau masters from Samoa, the Suluape family, and tattoo artist, performer and world’s most tattooed man, Lucky Diamond Rich. The fifth Auckland International Tattoo Convention celebrates the intersection of global tattoo culture and the Pacific’s rich tradition of Ta Moko and Tatau.

Artists from England, Germany, Japan, Malaysia, Samoa, Tahiti, Tonga, USA and all over New Zealand will design and execute tattoos for the public at the convention, including traditional Ta Moko and Tatau by hand tools. The event also features a packed schedule of entertainment, including DJs, artwork, and Polynesian dance.

Event spokesperson Pip Russell said,

“New Zealand’s tattoo culture is unique. Like many other countries, we’ve seen a massive interest in Western tattoo art and styles over the last 15 years and we’ve grown a thriving industry of studios and great artists. But New Zealand is also home to a rich tradition of Ta Moko and on the doorstep of Polynesian Tatau, which are both enjoying well deserved revivals. When it come to tattoo art, New Zealand has best of all worlds and we want to celebrate that.”

Russell goes on to explain the role of the bi-annual the resurgence of Ta Moko and Tatau.

“When we launched the convention in 1999, the customary Polynesian tattoo techniques were still underground. There were only a handful of Ta Moko and Tatau artists, scattered across the Pacific, who were holding onto their traditions. But we bought the best of those artists together, along with their counterparts in western tattooing, and we showed New Zealand what amazing traditional art was like" she says,

"for most people, it was the first time they had seen Ta Moko and Tatau done properly. Ta Moko and Tatau have enjoyed a huge revival since then, and we’re really proud that the convention has helped with that”.

Entertainment at the event includes the Kalia dance troupe from Tonga, and some of Aucklands finest DJs including Slave, Cian (Conch) and Bobby Brazuka (Conch). A pop-up salon by Teaser Hair Lounge will provide 1950’s style hair dos.

Also included in the event is New Zealand’s only display of tattoo art exhibition “Death” on its world tour from Canada. The exhibition shows a series of artwork from around the world, examining the death of 'traditional western tattoo design' and its rebirth as ‘fine art’.

The Auckland International Tattoo Convention is presented by Ta Moko Tatau Tattoo Trust.

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.

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