In a gesture of outstanding arts philanthropy, $30,000 in awards, spanning three categories, will be granted to artists at this year’s NZ Art Show, highlighting the show’s ongoing dedication to backing the arts community. Carla Russell, the Executive Director of the NZ Art Show, emphasizes the show’s core mission of bolstering the arts: giving back to the artists and providing an exceptional experience for art lovers.
‘The NZ Art Show operates under a charitable trust, and we take pride in supporting thousands of artists over the show’s 21 history,’ says Russell. ‘With the added support of our awards’ sponsors, the NZ Art Show community is well-positioned as a leader in arts philanthropy. Since its inception, the NZ Art Show has contributed over $200,000 to New Zealand artists. We are truly grateful to the generosity of our supporters, who help us sustain the arts in Aotearoa.’
Images: two finalists in this year’s R.T Nelson Awards for Sculpture – Sam-Duckor-Jones and Ben Young.
40 Year 13 secondary school students across the Wellington region are vying for the inaugural Hyundai Emerging Artist Award, supported by Hyundai NZ and Brendan Foot Supersite. This award aims to encourage and empower emerging artists as they embark on their creative journeys.
Images below: Artworks by finalists for the Hyundai Emerging Artist Award: Harrison Smith (Aotea College), Sean De OCampo (Bishop Viard College, Kenepuru), Lily Kalasih (Tawa College)
The People’s Choice Art Award, proudly sponsored by Brendan Foot Supersite since 2018, offers a $3,000 prize. Ten standout pieces will be selected by a jury and curated in a dedicated gallery: the artwork that garners the highest number of votes from attendees will be awarded. This award underscores the importance of public engagement and appreciation in the art world.
The R.T. Nelson Awards for Sculpture, established by arts philanthropist Richard T. Nelson in 2021, will present an extraordinary $25,000 in recognition of exceptional talent and craftsmanship in the field of sculpture. With a premier prize of $15,000, two Highly Commended awards of $1,000 each, a People’s Choice prize of $2,000, and Finalist awards of $250 each, these awards honour the dedication and skill of sculptors across New Zealand
Images below: finalists in the R.T Nelson Awards for Sculpture: Evelyn Dunstan, Mel Ford, Ben Pearce and Tatyanna Meharry.
The NZ Art Show is owned by a charitable trust and the majority of the show’s income is directly for the benefit of the artists and art-loving community.
As New Zealand’s first, largest, and most successful art show, the NZ Art Show continues to be a beacon for artists and art enthusiasts alike. Its commitment to accessibility and affordability, with the majority of works priced below $5,000, ensures that art remains inclusive and accessible to all.
To experience the creativity of New Zealand’s finest artists, come to the 2024 NZ Art Show at TSB Arena Wellington, King’s Birthday Weekend:
- VIP Preview and Opening Gala May 30, for Friends and Sponsors
- Show days May 31 – June 2 (Friday – Sunday)
As the show is fast approaching, we will no longer be posting tickets, but they will be available to collect at the TSB Arena from Monday 27 May.
