Carla Russell: Executive Director & 23 years at the heart of it all

“When I look at my collection, I see twenty-three years of me.”

Back in 2004, when Carla Russell helped launch what would become the NZ Art Show, she had no idea it would transform not only the arts in Aotearoa — but her own life too.

Two decades later, Carla stands at the heart of one of New Zealand’s most beloved creative events — leading a show that has supported thousands of artists and connected tens of thousands of New Zealanders with original art.

Today, she leads one of New Zealand’s most-loved arts events with unwavering passion — connecting people with original art and the artists who create it.

Carla lives between Taranaki and Wellington — two places that feed her creativity and sense of community. Her Taranaki home, close to whānau and the wild beauty of the maunga and coastline, holds much of her ever-growing art collection — discovered piece by piece through the show over the past 23 years.

Alongside her husband Adam and her 3 children, Fin, Rio and Anahera, Carla has built a vibrant, eclectic collection over the years — a visual diary of personal taste, curiosity, and connection. Many of the works have been discovered at the NZ Art Show, each piece a reminder of the artists and stories that sparked something in her.

“The NZ Art Show gave me the courage to trust my instincts — to collect art that makes me feel something deeply, not just what’s trendy at the time.”

Their home now reflects a rich journey of discovery — bold ideas, emerging voices, and art that holds meaning far beyond the walls it hangs on.

For Carla, collecting is about connection – to artists, ideas and sense of self and belonging.

“I hope I’m setting my kids up for a life filled with art.
That it brings them the same joy it brings me.”

Carla’s leadership continues to shape the future of the NZ Art Show — championing accessibility, discovery, and the belief that art is for everyone.

Supporting artists isn’t just part of the job for Carla — it’s a responsibility she holds close, ensuring creators feel valued, seen, and able to thrive in their careers.

23 years on from that first show, her passion still burns as brightly as ever — to uplift artists, grow community, and celebrate the creativity that defines Aotearoa.

‘The NZ Art Show is a place where you can find your art – there is so much to see, so much to love and so much to talk about – a place to discover, to connect and an art collectors delight’.

ARTISTS IN CARLA AND ADAM’S COLLECTION