Creative New Zealand : Visual 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.

Artspace shapes budding curators

Tue, 22 May 2012 16:34:37 +1200

Artspace is pleased to announce the exhibition alienate/demonstrate/edit curated by Arron Santry, Artspace’s Curatorial Intern 2011/2012.

Santry is the 8th intern to be given this sought-after role. Established in 2004, the programme was the first of its kind in New Zealand, since then Artspace has been training curators in a one-year mentored position that remains a vital instrument in growing the experience and professionalism of contemporary art in New Zealand.

“The Curatorial Intern is an invaluable resource in the life of the office and Arron has made great use of his first-hand experience working alongside local and international, emerging and established artists, solidifying his writing skills and gaining confidence in the many tasks a curator needs to be familiar with,” says Artspace Director Caterina Riva.

As the culmination of his internship, Santry will mount an ambitious exhibition, which features work by artists from around the world including: Japan, Holland, USA, Austria and New Zealand.

alienate/demonstrate/edit considers the way technology, particularly the Internet, affects our experience and understanding when used as a tool to research art or access images. "In some ways, the process of curatorial research in the context of the internet became the subject of my research. I became more and more interested in the tensions generated by the aesthetic contexts in which I was seeing work viewing copies, low-res images, art blogs. The show then crystallised around the ways artists deal with these conditions, and the conditions of aesthetic mediation in contemporary society," says Santry.

Along with the exhibition at Artspace, Santry has invited Japanese artist Yousuke Fuyama and Dutch artist Vincent Riebeek to visit Auckland to offer free public performances, and the opportunity to meet and work alongside local artists.

“I feel extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to develop this project under the guidance of a curator as engaged as Caterina Riva. Her support and insight have enabled me to bring together an amazing group of international artists and pursue an exciting curatorial project," says Santry.

alienate/demonstrate/edit with Yousuke Fuyama (Japan), Oliver Laric (Austria), Joseph Nerney (NZ), Vincent Riebeek (Holland), Sean Snyder (USA) opens at 6pm on Friday the 25th of May (with a performance by Vincent Riebeek) and runs until the 30th of June.

Artspace gratefully acknowledges Dame Jenny Gibbs for her support of the Artspace Curatorial Intern programme.

For more information please contact Leah Mulgrew on +64 9 3034965 or email media@artspace.org.nz

Artspace receives major funding from Creative New Zealand

Local curators to gain Asian inspiration

Tue, 29 May 2012 15:08:14 +1200

Three New Zealand curators working to build art links with Asia have been chosen to tour the cutting-edge contemporary arts scenes in China, South Korea and Japan.

Auckland curators Andrew Clifford and Vera Mey, and Wellington’s Mark Williams will participate in the three-week 2012 Curator Tour, supported by Creative New Zealand and the Asia New Zealand Foundation.

The tour, which is the third of its kind, includes visits to leading museums, galleries, and artist spaces in the three countries. The curators will visit the Gwangju Biennale and Media City Seoul in Korea, and the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennial in Japan. The locally facilitated tour will also include meetings with leading institutions and artists in Beijing and Shanghai.

Asia New Zealand Foundation director of culture Jennifer King says she is particularly excited to have Japan included in the programme for the first time.

“The Echigo Triennial is not well-known in New Zealand but it’s a really interesting concept that combines modern art with the traditional countryside, and will certainly provide fresh inspiration for the curators.

“We’ve been told by the curatorial community that these tours allow them to gain access to networks they would otherwise not be able to, and to gain a real understanding of the region. We’re aware of exciting exhibitions being planned by New Zealand curators who participated in the previous tours, as a result of the contacts they have made.”

She thanked Creative New Zealand for supporting the tour again this year.

“Creative New Zealand recognises the importance of building strong artistic links with Asia,” says Cath Cardiff, senior manager Arts Policy, Capability and International at Creative New Zealand “We look forward to seeing relationships and opportunities that have been nurtured over the last three years, continue to develop and grow”.

Background about the curators:

Andrew Clifford is a freelance writer and works as a curator at The University of Auckland’s Centre for Art Research. The Centre administers the Gus Fisher Gallery, the University’s art collection and the student-led Window gallery. Andrew has a longstanding interest in New Zealand’s cultural context as part of the Asia-Pacific region. He has been involved in bringing many Asian artists and their works to New Zealand, and in curating exhibitions with Asian-New Zealand artists.

Vera Mey is the assistant director of Auckland University of Technology's ST PAUL St Gallery. She aims to become an expert in contemporary Asian art and histories, informed by her curatorial practice and her background as a first-generation Asian New Zealander of Cambodian and Indonesian heritage. Last year she participated in the Gwangju Biennale’s third International Curator Course in South Korea, and was able to build extensive networks in Asia.

Mark Williams is the founding director of arts agency CIRCUIT Artist Film and Video Aotearoa New Zealand, launched this year. The agency’s collection features a number of Asian New Zealand artists, including Jae Hoon Lee, Seung Yul Oh, Hye Rim Lee and Samin Son. Mark worked at the New Zealand Film Archive from 1999 to 2010, for much of that time as exhibitions manager. Earlier this year, he was invited to attend the Bangkok Experimental Film Festival, where he screened a number of films and took part indiscussions about the reuse of archival images.

For media inquiries contact:

Rebecca Palmer

Media Adviser

Asia New Zealand Foundation

Telephone 64 4 470 8701

Email: rpalmer@asianz.org.nz

Pirimia Burger

Communications Adviser

Creative New Zealand

Telephone: 64 4 498 0727

Email: pirimia.burger@creativenz.govt.nz

2012 John Fries Memorial Prize for emerging visual artists: entries close soon

Tue, 15 May 2012 12:04:28 +1200

This $10,000 annual non-acquisitive award is open to Australian or New Zealand artists of all ages and disciplines, who are not enrolled as students and whose work is not held in the collection of a state, territory or national public art gallery. Entries close on 4 June 2012 at 5pm.

The winner will be announced at the opening of the exhibition on August 14. The finalists' exhibition is curated by Venita Poblocki. The prize will be judged by Wayne Tunnicliffe, Head Curator of Australian Art at the Art Gallery of NSW and artists Bronwyn Bancroft and Kath Fries. The finalists’ exhibition will be held at Gaffa Galleries, Sydney, from 11 August to 1 September. The competition is administered by Viscopy.

For further information, go to
http://www.viscopy.org.au/john-fries-prize
Email: jfmp@viscopy.org.au

Pacific city inspires new exhibition at Auckland Art Gallery

Thu, 10 May 2012 09:44:37 +1200

The first major group exhibition of contemporary Pacific art developed by Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki will open on Saturday, 7 July. Home AKL is a dynamic exhibition presenting works by Pacific artists, most of whom live in Auckland.

Home AKL reveals the increasingly significant role Pacific art plays in New Zealand’s identity and cultural landscape, and includes work by more than 20 artists whose heritage derives from the Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Niue, Samoa,Tonga and Tuvalu.

"New Zealand’s contemporary Pacific art reflects many distinctive voices, stories and perspectives – it’s urban, biographical and affected by its grass-roots community," says the Gallery’s Senior Curator, New Zealand and Pacific Art, Ron Brownson.

"Home AKL is a unique exhibition presenting work by both contemporary and heritage Pacific artists. Heritage artists use traditional techniques and media while often incorporating modern materials in their work."

Artwork by three generations of Pacific artists shows how these practitioners use personal experience to examine concepts of "home" and belonging. A range of media, including painting, sculpture, photography, video and adornment has been selected.

Alongside artwork from the Gallery’s collection and loans, Home AKL will feature 13 new commissions.Artworks include those by prominent Pacific artists – Lonnie Hutchinson, Ioane Ioane, Shigeyuki Kihara, Andy Leleisi’uao, Paul Tangata and Teuane Tibbo – and emerging talents such as Leilani Kake, Janet Lilo and Siliga David Setoga. There are also five heritage fine art collectives from Fiji, Kiribati, Niue, Samoa, Tonga and Tuvalu.

"It is impossible to consider New Zealand art today without taking account of the influence of the Pacific," says Home AKL Associate Curator ,Ema Tavola of Fresh Gallery, Otara.

Home AKL’s opening day will be celebrated with free entry to the exhibition, music and performances. A family-friendly Big Day Art will also be held with art workshops inspired by the exhibition. Over the course of Home AKL, the exhibition’s supporting visitor programme will include free artist talks, film screenings and a seminar.

The exhibition is generously supported by Creative New Zealand and art patrons Rose Dunn and the Friedlander Foundation.

For more information please contact:
Tae Allison
Communications Coordinator
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki
P +64 9 307 7706
M +64 27 291 9953
E tae.allison@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Blair French announced as 7th SCAPE Curator

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 09:45:14 +1200

Executive Director of Sydney's Artspace Visual Arts Centre, Blair French has been appointed as curator of the 7th SCAPE Christchurch Biennial of Art in Public Space to be held in September 2013.

Born in the Cook Islands, he grew up in New Zealand and is a graduate of the University of Canterbury. Blair has been based in Sydney since the mid-1990s working as a curator, writer and teacher across a range of practices in art from the late-1960s through to the present.

French was convenor of the curatorial group for the earthquake-beleaguered 6th SCAPE and has agreed to return in a similar role for the 7th SCAPE.

“I am delighted to have been offered the opportunity to curate 7^thSCAPE and in so doing continue work with the Art & Industry Trust, its partners and the Christchurch arts community. It is a wonderful opportunity, a significant challenge and a great responsibility. As is the case across all aspects of life and work in Christchurch, we obviously face a unique situation and set of challenges in developing public art projects in the uncertain and changing post-earthquakes environment. But with these challenges come extraordinary opportunities to reconsider the way in which public art can contribute to processes of community rebuilding and urban development, and to demonstrate it’s important to the vitality of civic life,” he said.

His reappointment to the role will bring a continuity of curatorial process from the work he has undertaken over the past two and a half years in Christchurch. His knowledge of the SCAPE model has also enabled him to suggest amendments to the curatorial process, and for 7th SCAPE he will be working with a newly appointed International Curatorial Advisors Group and a Christchurch Reference Group who will act as concept sounding boards and provide specialist advice.

Deborah McCormick, Director of SCAPE and the Art & Industry Trust says, “we are delighted at the level of consultation that Blair has recommended for 7th SCAPE. The Trust’s vision is for Christchurch people to be excited, engaged and stimulated by highly regarded contemporary public art, and to aid us in delivering this vision, the Christchurch Reference Group from the resident art community has been convened”.

Confirmed members of the Christchurch Reference Group include Tony de Lautour (Artist), Coralie Winn (Gap Filler), John Chrisstoffels (Filmmaker and senior lecturer in Fine Arts at the University of Canterbury), Stephen Cleland (Director of The Physics Room), Lara Strongman (Independent curator and writer), Dr Jacky Bowring (Associate Professor of Landscape Architecture and Head of School at Lincoln University’s School of Landscape Architecture). The appointment of an International Curatorial Advisors group is currently underway.

While French will work closely with the two advisory groups, he comes to SCAPE with an impressive and full curriculum vitae. He has curated a range of exhibitions in Australia and New Zealand, has published widely including a book of his texts, Out of Time: Essays Between Photography and Art (2006) and two books on photography in Australia. He has worked in public galleries in Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom and taught at the Universities of New South Wales, Waikato and Western Sydney. He holds a PhD from the University of Sydney, was President of CAOs (Contemporary Arts Organisations Australia) 2006-2009, and is currently an external member of the Academic Board of Sydney College of the Arts, University of Sydney.

French is in Christchurch on 23rd and 24th April to take part in the SCAPE Public Art Development Workshop and to Chair the panel discussion The River of Arts: creating new ways for The Arts to work in Christchurch’s public spaces.

For more information and high resolution imagery contact:

Deborah McCormick, Director

Tel: +64 (0)3 365 7990, Mobile: +64 (0)27 280 9557, Email: deborah@scapebiennial.org.nz

Tribute to William McAloon,1969-2012

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 17:45:37 +1200

Creative New Zealand mourns the recent passing of respected curator William McAloon.

Director of Collections and Research for Te Papa, Claudia Orange has written a tribute to his contribution as a curator, writer and art historian working with artists and institutions throughout New Zealand.

Elizabeth Caldwell to take up City Gallery directorship

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 09:18:20 +1200

To all followers of City Gallery Wellington we would like to announce that Elizabeth Caldwell, the current Director of the Dunedin Public Art Gallery, will take up the reigns as Director, City Gallery Wellington in July 2012.

After a great deal of speculation and guesswork within the art world, Wellington Museum Trust Chief Executive Pat Stuart says, “We are delighted Elizabeth has accepted the challenge of leading City Gallery Wellington into the future. She has both the leadership skills and commitment to contemporary art that will ensure the gallery will continue to flourish.”

Ms Caldwell brings over 20 years experience in the New Zealand visual arts sector to the role and is excited to be taking up the post. “City Gallery Wellington has established a reputation for delivering high quality contemporary art exhibitions. I look forward to working with the team and continuing to bring the very best of international and national art to the Wellington public.”

No stranger to the capital, Ms Caldwell has worked as the Senior Curator Visual Art and Collection Services at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, and as the Arts Adviser for Visual Art and Craft/Object Art at Creative New Zealand.

Ms Caldwell was previously the Curator of Contemporary Art at the Robert McDougall Art Gallery (now Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu) and her academic qualifications include an MA in Art History from the University of Canterbury, Diploma of Secondary Teaching (Christchurch College of Education) and a Postgraduate Diploma in Art Curatorial Studies (University of Melbourne).

The team at City Gallery Wellington look forward to welcoming Elizabeth in July. John Cordner remains as Acting Director in the interim.

Call for Applications: 2012 curator tour to Korea, China and Japan

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 13:20:30 +1200

Creative New Zealand, in association with Asia New Zealand Foundation (Asia:NZ), will support up to three emerging to mid-career New Zealand curators to visit China, Korea and Japan - countries all at the edge of the global contemporary art scene.

The tour runs from 5 to 28 September, 2012, but curators may also add on an optional visit to the Shanghai Biennale.

What is the curator tour?

Selected curators will visit leading art museums, galleries, and artist spaces in China, Korea and Japan over a three-week period to build their professional networks and explore possible future collaborations and artist exchanges.

The tour will include visits to the Gwangju Biennale and Media City Seoul in Korea, and the Echigo Triennial in Japan.

Participants have the option of staying on in China at the end of the tour for the Shanghai Biennale (at own expense).

Asia:NZ will arrange formal programmes in each city, in collaboration with local art experts. The selected curators will be invited to provide input into the tour itinerary.

Eligibility

To apply, curators must:

show a desire to work with artists from Asia, learn about Asian art and explore opportunities for collaboration
have support from their gallery director, or, in the case of independent curators, an expression of interest from a gallery in a specific project area
demonstrate a track record in terms of knowledge of New Zealand arts and curatorial practice
be prepared to share information from the tour on their return
be prepared to make a short presentation, with images, on their institution/curatorial practice/perspectives on contemporary New Zealand art
be available to complete the tour and have no date restrictions. (Curators leave New Zealand around September 5 and return around September 28 – unless they stay on for the Shanghai Biennale.)
have a current passport.

Applications must be received at Asia:NZ by 12pm, Friday April 20. (contact details for application forms at end of page).

Why do we offer the tour?

The purpose of the tour is to assist curators to:

develop and share market knowledge of the contemporary art of Korea, China and Japan and its relevance for a New Zealand audience
explore opportunities for New Zealand artists to exhibit their work in China, Korea and Japan
explore opportunities for exchange and/or joint exhibitions/projects
develop their curatorial practice.

What’s expected of the curators?

During the tour, curators may be asked to give a short presentation about their institution and its perspective on contemporary New Zealand/Pacific art.

On their return to New Zealand, curators will be expected to disseminate and share information from the tour. This includes taking part in a public panel discussion, organised by Creative New Zealand and Asia:NZ.

What costs are covered?

Creative New Zealand and Asia:NZ will cover:

Return economy class airfares
Professional guides
Accommodation
Per diems
Ground transport.

Depending on the final itinerary selected, curators may need to contribute some funds to cover all costs.

Curators may add on an optional visit to the Shanghai Biennale in China at the end of tour. Any costs beyond the allotted grant will need to be met by the curator.

How to apply

To download an application form visit the Asia:NZ website. After completing the application form, attach all relevant documents and materials and send to:

Jennifer King
Asia New Zealand Foundation,
Level 16, Fujitsu House
141 The Terrace
PO Box 10144, Wellington 6143
Phone 04-4708704

Email: jking@asianz.org.nz or Lma@asianzorg.nz

Plunging into the Asian art scene - read about the 2011 curator tour

Eulogy for Jan Nigro 1920-2012

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 15:22:31 +1300

Creative New Zealand mourns the recent passing of celebrated New Zealand visual artist Jan Nigro.

Auckland Art Gallery’s senior curator for New Zealand and Pacific Arts, Ron Browson, has prepared a eulogy on her exceptional contribution to New Zealand arts over a more than 70 year career.

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

Marilyn Waring and Susan Guthrie join Letting Space to talk about productivity

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 15:27:47 +1300

Why do we use markets to define human value? What are the alternative ways to value time, energy, creative contribution and original ideas? A free talk entitled Being Productive this Wednesday lunchtime as part of the New Zealand International Festival of the Arts discusses these questions. Artist Mark Harvey, whose performance work on Monday Productive Bodies, has seen the unemployed and those with experience of redundancy trying to be of service around the city, is joined by leading academic and former MP Marilyn Waring and economist Susan Guthrie of The Morgan Foundation.

"There continues to be the assumption," Marilyn Waring has written, "that the only way in which work can be visible or valuable is if you treat it as if it were a market commodity or a market service and you attribute a value to it."

Over many years Waring has questioned the economic model by which we value human productivity and our environment. Susan Guthrie meanwhile is well-known for her writing with Gareth Morgan about how wealth disparity is threatening the social fabric and how comprehensive tax reform is required to deal with this. Chaired by co-director of Letting Space Sophie Jerram the talk will also consider what role an artwork like Harvey's Productive Bodies plays in exploring some of these issues.

In Mark Harvey's Productive Bodies, a group of people with experience of redundancy and unemployment are brought together as a community to explore and perform ideas of usefulness and productivity. For more information about the work go to www.lettingspace.org.nz/productive-bodies

Marilyn Waring: feminist activist and political economist:
Marilyn's work, Counting for Nothing/ If Women Counted is an international economics classic. She has been a Director of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand and is Professor of Public Policy at AUT University in Auckland.
During her nine-year career in politics, Professor Waring never shied from confrontation. She become National MP for Raglan in 1975 at the age of 22, but was soon at odds with Prime Minister Rob Muldoon. When she crossed the floor to support a Labour bill to ban nuclear-armed ships in 1984, Sir Robert called a snap selection, which he lost.

Susan Guthrie, economist:
Prior to joining the Morgan Foundation in August 2010, Susan was the economist and finance writer for Consumer NZ, reporting on business practices which hurt consumers and investors. This followed an earlier career as a senior economist in the New Zealand, and Hong Kong finance industries. Susan has also held positions at NZ Treasury and the Reserve Bank of NZ.

Mark Harvey, performer:
Mark is a lecturer in Creative Arts and Industries at The University of Auckland and like most artists has been on the unemployment benefit for periods of his life. Harvey’s performance practices are conceptually driven and test out notions of endurance with constructions of idiocy, seriousness and deadpan humour, and draw from his visual arts and contemporary dance training.

EVENT:
Being Productive
A conversation with Marilyn Waring, Susan Guthrie and Mark Harvey
Free entry. Wednesday March 14th, 1-2pm, Festival Club, Odlins Plaza, Wellington Waterfront
Part of the New Zealand International Festival of the Arts sculpture series The Active City
http://festival.co.nz/visual-arts/art-talks-being-productive/

Local Asburton artist Robin Arnst to exhibit at Gallery

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 13:08:18 +1300

Local Asburton artist Robin Arnst is preparing for her upcoming exhibition ‘Lift the Spirit’ which opens Saturday 17 March, with an artist talk commencing at 1:30pm. Arnst’s latest work is inspired by Tai Chi, the year of the dragon and art, by focussing on how these three aspects complement and enhance each other. “Tai Chi is a lot like painting – you try to observe the world and ones’ outer surroundings, yet at the same time trust ones’ inner vision and intuition.”

Arnst describes this exhibition as a “journey of self discovery” and hopes that viewers will feel the same beauty and strength that Tai Chi has inspired in people for thousands of years. “By using art as a holistic medicine we can all benefit from the mystery of art. Balancing ourselves physically, mentally and spiritually so a pathway to better health/better understanding/a relaxed body and mind sums up Tai Chi to me.” – Robin Arnst.

Robin Arnst’s exhibition will be available for viewing from Saturday 17 March to Sunday 15^th April 2012.

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.

Photographer awarded the 2012 Creative New Zealand Berlin Visual Artists Residency at the Künstlerhaus Bethanien in Berlin.

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 09:16:22 +1300

Auckland-born photographer
Ben Cauchi has been awarded the 2012 Creative New Zealand Berlin Visual Artists Residency at the Künstlerhaus Bethanien in Berlin.

The biennial 12-month residency is an opportunity for New Zealand visual artists to work on an approved project, gain professional development, build international networks and help raise awareness of New Zealand visual arts.

Ben’s work employs the 19^th century photographic process which creates one-off positives on glass or metal. While resident at the Künstlerhaus Bethanien, Ben will work on a project entitled One’s own Grey which will expand on his photographic practice as well as furthering his recent exploration of pre-cinematic technologies.

In particular he will explore specific sites in Berlin and Germany and investigate how the history and memories associated with these places affect peoples’ perceptions.

“I'm thrilled to be given the opportunity to immerse myself in such a melting pot of diverse cultures and arts as well as having access to Berlin's great art collections and being within striking distance of other major collections elsewhere in Europe.”

“The rich and colourful history of Berlin is something I'm particularly interested in working with. Being offered a space at the Kunstlerhaus Bethanien, which is such a hub for other artists, curators and writers from across Europe, is something I'm very grateful for.”

Creative New Zealand Chief Executive Stephen Wainwright said the residency was a great chance for visual artists to dedicate twelve months to the development of their chosen project. “Ben will also be at the centre of a creative hub in a year when New Zealand will have a high profile presence in Frankfurt which will provide a back drop of opportunities for Ben to not only develop his career opportunities but also represent New Zealand visual arts practice. ” he said.

Christoph Tannert, director of the Künstlerhaus Bethanien, said the jury was impressed by Ben’s exciting combination of classical photography within a contemporary concept. “Especially interesting is Ben’s approach to light within the photographs as well as the examination of the psychological elements of his work.”

About Ben Cauchi
Currently based in Whanganui, Ben Cauchi has just completed an artist-in-residence at the McCahon House studio in Auckland. He developed a keen interest in history at an early age, coming to photography in his mid 20's, inspired by the work of its pioneers. Since completing his studies at Massey University, Wellington in 2000, Ben has become highly recognised both for the ‘wet-plate' processes, which he has used almost exclusively since 2002, and the intriguing photographs he creates. In 2007 he was the Francis Hodgkins Fellow at the University of Otago in Dunedin. This proved to be a key year as his work started to shift from the mystical and spiritualist concerns of his earlier practice, to tackling more psychological subjects. The resulting exhibition, Dead Time, was mounted at the Hocken Gallery in Dunedin and also toured to Christchurch Art Gallery.

In 2011 Ben completed the Rita Angus Cottage residency in Wellington and is working towards a solo show at City Gallery, Wellington, which will open in October 2012. His most recent exhibition, The Lunar Apogee is currently being showcased at the Lopdell House Gallery. Ben’s work has been collected by every major public collection in New Zealand, as well as the University of Wollongong and the National Gallery of Australia collections. A significant holding of his work is also housed at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Ben was the recipient of an Arts Foundation New Generation Award in 2011.

For images of Ben’s work please see http://bencauchi.com/work/

Previous recipients

Previous New Zealand recipients of the residency at Künstlerhaus Bethanien are Peter Robinson (2000), Michael Stevenson (2002), Ronnie van Hout (2004), Mladen Bizumic (2006), Sara Hughes (2008)and Alicia Frankovich (2010). The Berlin residency is one of a number of international artist residencies offered by Creative New Zealand to provide opportunities for New Zealand artists to develop their practice and build international networks.

Call for entries for the Zonta Youth Art Awards 2012

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:40:45 +1300

Entry forms for the popular Zonta Youth Art Awards are now available at the Ashburton Art Gallery. This year marks the 14th annual exhibition of artworks from the youth of Mid and South Canterbury, and staff at the Gallery are looking forward to seeing the entries;

"The standard of work from last year's exhibition was extremely high, so it's exciting to see what this year's entrants have to offer"- Lucy Sharp.

The exhibition provides a great opportunity of the creative youth within our community to experience what it is like to enter an exhibition, to have the chance to win awards, recognition and be encouraged for their artistic achievements. It is also a fantastic opportunity for those students who wish to pursue art after college to work on their professional practices. Students are required to liaise with the Gallery and Zonta regarding their work, and this year extra attention will be given to meeting criteria's of presentation, hanging requirements and attentiveness to pick up and drop off deadlines.

The award is open to all 16-19 year olds normally living in Mid or South Canterbury. Each entrant may submit up to two works in any medium. All entries should be delivered to the Ashburton Art Gallery, Baring Square East, Ashburton by Friday 9 March 4:00pm and be accompanied by a copy of the completed and signed entry form. Entry forms are available from the Ashburton Art Gallery or via email. This year Karen Smith of Methven has been selected to be the judge of the works, and the awards will be presented at the opening function on Friday 23rd March 2012.

Te Waka Toi Scholarships available to emerging Māori artists

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For further information contact:

Tumarangai Sciascia, Māori Arts Advisor

04 4980705

tumarangai.sciascia@creativenz.govt.nz

Funding for groups to grow and retain Māori arts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ENDS

For information about Toi Ake contact:

Tumarangai Sciascia, Māori Arts Adviser

04 4980705

tumarangai.sciascia@creativenz.govt.nz

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

Door of international opportunity opens to Māori visual artists

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:04:29 +1300

Māori carvers, printmakers, painters and fibre artists are invited to apply for the 2012 Toi Sqwigwialtxw artist’s residency in Washington State, North America.

The biennial Toi Sqwigwialtxw (pronounced : skweg-voy-out) Residency is supported by Te Waka Toi, the Māori arts board of Creative New Zealand; and the Longhouse Education and Cultural Center at Evergreen State University in Olympia. Sqwigwialtxw means ‘house of welcome’ in the language of South Puget Sound Salish.

Applications are now open to established visual artists of Māori descent, who wish to apply for a six week residency during 1 May and 30 June 2012.

“The successful candidate will be an ambassador for Māori arts and culture. They will have an opportunity to undertake a project of their choice, as well as collaborate with Alaska Native and Coast Salish artists” says Te Waka Toi Chair Darrin Haimona.

“Just think of the powerful and creative new work that could emerge from such a collaboration”.

Longhouse Education and Cultural Center Director Tina Kuckkhan says, “We have just opened our Northwest Native Woodcarving Studio which will also function as a weaving or other studio. We are excited to be able to host another wonderful Māori artist in our new, purpose-built facility”.

Candidates for the residency will need to demonstrate excellence in visual arts. Previous artists selected for the residency include; weaver Tina Wirihana (2006); master carver Dr Takirirangi Smith (2007); visual artist June Northcroft Grant (2008) and Henare and Tawera Tahuri (2010).

Initially a 12 week visual arts residency, in 2008 the initiative grew into a biennial exchange. This residency provides professional development opportunities and the chance for Māori artists to broaden networks with other indigenous artists from the Pacific Rim.

Applications for the 2012 Toi Sqwigwialtxw artist’s residency close on Friday 16 March 2012.

All information can be found on the Creative New Zealand website: www.creativenz.govt.nz/findfundingand select Māori arts.

For information about the 2012 Toi Sqwigwialtxw Residency contact:

Tumarangai Sciascia

Māori Arts Adviser

04 4980705

tumarangai.sciascia@creativenz.govt.nz

For media inquiries please contact:

Pirimia Burger

Communications Advisor (Māori and Pacific)

04 498 0727

027 290 1606

pirimia.burger@creativenz.govt.nz

For information about the Longhouse Education and Cultural Center at Evergreen State University:

http://www.evergreen.edu/longhouse/

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)

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

ISEA2013 - expressions of interest now open

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 16:13:45 +1300

The 19th International Symposium on Electronic Art is being held in Sydney in June 2013.

The first call for Expressions of Interest from artists and organisations wishing to develop, commission or present work in association with ISEA2013 is now open. Please note that first call out is focussed on projects with impending grant due dates and large-scale projects with long lead times, see the Proposals Page for some general information on future rounds.

Also, in this round ISEA2013 is working with the Australia Council for The Arts to support a few major projects to secure support through the Creative Australia program. Applicants interested in these opportunities (please read the guidelines on the Australia Council site) are also encouraged to submit in this round. Short listed projects may be asked to submit, with our support, an Australia Council application form.

So, if you have an idea for a projects that is dependent on funding from other sources (i.e. government, philanthropic agencies, etc.) with deadlines approaching or you have an idea for a Creative Australia project that might be suitable for an outcome in ISEA, we are encouraging you to apply now.

Please make sure you read the FAQ and the Proposals page before making a submission.

As ISEA2013 is still working on attracting funding and partners that will allow us to commission other works other applications would be preferred in later Rounds.

PledgeMe re-launch

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

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

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

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

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

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

Creative New Zealand announces further Earthquake Assistance Grants

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

List of EAG recipients, activity and amounts:

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

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

Tukutuku designs wanted for United Nations Building, New York

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 15:40:36 +1300

While at the UN Headquarters in 2010, Hon Dr Sharples identified an opportunity to both demonstrate New Zealand’s long-term commitment to the UN, while showcasing the unique cultural identity of Māori as tangata whenua, the indigenous people of Aotearoa.

“I learnt about the major refurbishments happening at the UN and saw that the New Zealand Wall was in need of maintenance; this was an opportunity too good to miss as the wall is in a very prominent location in the building,” Minister Sharples says.

Those interested in submitting a tuktuku panel design can find more information on how to do so, on the Te Puni Kōkiri website. Entries close on 01 February 2012.

When the original UN buildings were constructed in the early 1950s, New Zealand as a founding UN Member State gifted a rimu wall that was integrated into the structure of the building.

“It has become damaged over time and the addition of the tukutuku panels will bring life back to New Zealand’s special place in that building. This is a collaborative project that will strengthen bonds, old and new: among countries, cultures and art forms.

“We want to explore the use of designs by New Zealand artists that will then be incorporated into the panels by Māori weavers” Dr Sharples says.

The project is supported by the UN Capital Master Plan (responsible for the refurbishment), and the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Te Puni Kōkiri is managing the project and has identified an internationally-renowned provider, the Jack Lawless Whanau Trust, to complete the design and construction of the panels. Te Roopu Rāranga Whatu o Aotearoa/Māori Weavers of New Zealand will play a key role in making the final panels.

As part of the design of the panels, interested parties are invited to submit design ideas, which may be incorporated into the final panels by 1 February 2012.

“I’m very excited to see inspiring designs from across the country: whether or not you have done tukutuku before, this is your chance to get involved in a project that will show the world how important Māori culture is to all New Zealanders,” Dr Sharples says.

New Sydney residency for Canterbury artists

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 16:37:31 +1300

A new residency for Canterbury-based professional visual artists to spend twelve weeks at the renowned Artspace Visual Arts Centre in Sydney was launched today in Christchurch.

The inaugural SCAPE Christchurch /Artspace Sydney residency will take place from August to November 2012.

Artspace is Australia’s leading international residency-based contemporary art centre. Housed in the thriving arts hub of The Gunnery complex in Sydney, its residency programme supports artists to create new work that defines the present and proposes future possibilites for contemporary art.

"The SCAPE Christchurch Biennial of Art in Public Space is constantly looking for chances to develop new opportunities for Christchurch artists," says the Director of SCAPE, Deborah McCormick.

"SCAPE has a long-term commitment to installing art by Christchurch artists in our city. As part of that brief we also provide opportunities for local artists to develop their skills and to be exposed to new creative stimulus. Creative New Zealand have recognised the extraordinary opportunity that Artspace are offering our artists, and have supported the project enthusiastically."

The recipient of the residency will be offered accommodation at the Artspace Visual Arts Centre and return flights to Sydney. In addition they will receive an artist-in-residence production budget, one return economy domestic airfare in Australia and up to three nights accommodation, and the opportunity to give a public presentation of their work via the Open Studio @ Artspace programme.

Blair French, Curator of the SCAPE Christchurch Biennial of Art in Public Space, and Executive Director of Artspace Sydney says "After spending much time in Christchurch, I have been inevitably struck by the level of damage and devastation in the city. The lives and working practices of many artists have been seriously disrupted by the earthquakes. We are thrilled to provide a Christchurch artist with a welcome space for research and development."

Potential applicants can visit the SCAPE website to read and download further information at http://www.scapebiennial.org.nz/residency. Applications close on Friday 24 February 2012.

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Eulogy for Jan Nigro 1920-2012

Do you know how well your online marketing is doing?

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

Smart talk - Why Give? The Art of Philanthropy

Marilyn Waring and Susan Guthrie join Letting Space to talk about productivity

Local Asburton artist Robin Arnst to exhibit at Gallery

Creative New Zealand honours the people of Canterbury

Photographer awarded the 2012 Creative New Zealand Berlin Visual Artists Residency at the Künstlerhaus Bethanien in Berlin.

Call for entries for the Zonta Youth Art Awards 2012

Te Waka Toi Scholarships available to emerging Māori artists

Funding for groups to grow and retain Māori arts

Prominent Samoan artist responds to Christchurch's survivor spirit

Door of international opportunity opens to Māori visual artists

Grants to improve access to arts events and venues

Young artists to challenge seductive Pacific stereotypes

ISEA2013 - expressions of interest now open

PledgeMe re-launch

Creative New Zealand announces further Earthquake Assistance Grants

Muriwai Beach prepares to celebrate Waitangi Day

Tukutuku designs wanted for United Nations Building, New York

New Sydney residency for Canterbury artists

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