NZ Art Show Executive Director, Carla Russell (pictured on left) with Claire at the 2024 show.
In a nutshell, tell us about your role with the NZ Art Show.
My main focus is to work with the artists to ensure that from the moment they are invited to exhibit with us they feel supported and have everything they need to arrive at the show excited and prepared.
I also arrange and engage with the casual staff that we have working at the show, along with a whole bunch of other bits and bobs. 2025 will be my fifth show. I love the variety, excitement and challenge of each show, and nothing beats the joy of seeing the end result each year!
What are you most looking forward to in this year’s show?
Meeting the new artists and forming relationships with existing ones as well as seeing all of our ideas and conversations that we have during the year come to life. Its so amazing walking into an empty arena on the Monday morning and then on Thursday seeing it alive with Art.
Of the pieces you have personally bought from the show over the years, which is your current favourite – and why?
This is a hard one – I still love most of them! But these two are probably my favourites. I love the simplicity of this bowl by painter Nikki Corbishley and the moodiness of this landscape by Jane Blackmore.
Art by Wellington artist Nikki Corbishley
Art by Wellington artist Jane Blackmore
When you reflect on some of the best stories and anecdotes from shows over the years, what springs to mind?
The first thing that comes to mind is when a first-time artist sold out her artwork on the first day. She was so moved, and all the artists were so supportive and congratulatory towards her – it was a really cool moment.
From an art/artist perspective, what happens between now (March) and the show?
Connecting with the artists regularly (especially those new to the show) to ensure they feel comfortable and ready. We spend a lot of time on the layout and curation of the show to ensure every artist is in the best spot for them and in a gallery with complementary art and artists.
We are getting wall labels and signage designed and printed, artist welcome packs put together, pulling together art images for social media, newsletters and other advertising.
Overall, the artist liaison process is about building strong relationships, offering practical support, and making sure each artist has a smooth experience leading up to and during the event. It’s a lot of coordination, but the ultimate goal is to create an environment where artists can feel proud of their work and where they can make meaningful connections with attendees.
What are the artists busy doing right now?
Creating beautiful work!
How do you organise getting all the artwork from studios around the country to the TSB?
Artists are responsible for doing this. The majority of it is delivered by the artists, but some is also couriered.
Any other quirky/interesting/unusual or noteworthy show details you want to add to bring the 2025 behind-the-scenes experience to life?
From an artist’s perspective, the months leading up to the show are an exciting and crucial time of preparation.
Starting in March, many artists will begin finalising the pieces they plan to showcase, and they’ll be working on new works, or refining existing ones to ensure they’re ready for the event. There’s often a lot of anticipation as artists determine which pieces will best represent their style and creativity, ensuring they stand out in a competitive environment.
In the months leading up to the show, there’s also a significant amount of logistical planning. Artists need to consider framing, packaging, and transporting their works, which can be time-consuming. For those exhibiting for the first time, it can be a steep learning curve in terms of understanding how to display their work effectively and how to navigate the practicalities of a large-scale event like this.
There’s also an element of self-promotion and engagement during this time. Artists often work on their marketing materials—updating portfolios, reaching out to their own networks, and preparing for the spotlight the show will bring. Some may even host studio events or social media campaigns to build excitement for their involvement.
And last but not least, there’s the emotional and personal side of the process. For many artists, exhibiting in such a prestigious event is a milestone in their career. There’s a mix of excitement, pride – and sometimes nerves – a s they prepare to showcase their work to the public. Artists often find themselves reflecting on their creative journey and the significance of being part of an event that highlights New Zealand’s rich artistic talent.
The lead-up to the show is a blend of creative focus, logistical work, and anticipation for the opportunities and connections that will come once the event opens.
