Contact

Contact Carla
For general enquiries, sponsorship, partnerships, or Friend memberships:
📧 carla@artshow.co.nz

Contact Claire
For artist or partnership enquiries:
📧 artists@artshow.co.nz

Carla Russell has led the NZ Art Show | Whakaatu Toi since its inception in 2004, shaping it into New Zealand’s largest and most loved art event dedicated to supporting local artists. A finalist for Wellingtonian of the Year (Arts Category) in 2016 and a Kiwibank Local Hero Award recipient in 2019, Carla’s leadership has been defined by vision, creativity, and a deep commitment to the arts in Aotearoa.

With a background in event management and creative strategy, Carla combines big-picture thinking with exceptional organisational skill. Under her direction, the NZ Art Show has pioneered the art market scene in New Zealand and won its category in the Gold Awards 2023 for its contribution to Wellington’s cultural landscape. She’s passionate about creating spaces where artists, collectors, and communities connect — celebrating the power of art to spark conversation, joy, and belonging.

Carla also serves on the organising committee for Women of Pōneke, a Wellington-based movement that celebrates and supports women to thrive in their city, and is the Treasurer for her local Boardriders Club. She currently divides her time between Taranaki and Wellington.

Claire joined the NZ Art Show team in 2021 and brings a wealth of experience as a qualified accountant and former Group Accountant for Z Energy. Her sharp eye for detail, methodical approach, and calm efficiency ensure every element of artist engagement and partnership delivery runs seamlessly.

Super organised and deeply reliable, Claire thrives on bringing structure to creative chaos. She manages artist communications, allocations, and logistics with precision — ensuring that every exhibiting artist feels supported from application through to showtime. Her ability to balance data-driven processes with empathy and care has made her an integral part of the team.

With a genuine appreciation for art and the people who make it, Claire is passionate about creating a positive experience for everyone involved in the show — from first-time exhibitors to long-standing partners.