The NZ Art Show is taking a fresh approach to the 2026 People’s Choice Art Award, proudly sponsored by Brendan Foot Supersite.
This year, artists submitted their works online for consideration; allowing time for the artworks to be truly pondered over. Judges will be able to sit with each piece, read the artist’s stories, and consider not only the visual impact of the work, but the feeling, atmosphere, and connection it creates.
In keeping with the ethos of the NZ Art Show, the selection process is not based solely on critical opinion or technical analysis. The Show has always celebrated art that moves people: work that sparks curiosity, evokes emotion, tells a story, or simply lingers in your mind long after you’ve walked away.
To reflect this philosophy, the NZ Art Show Board of Directors will come together this year to select the final 10 artworks for the People’s Choice Art Award, before handing the final decision over to the public during the Show itself.
Visitors across King’s Birthday Weekend will then vote for their favourite work, with the winning artist receiving a $3,000 prize thanks to Brendan Foot Supersite.
Meet the Directors Behind the Selection
Leading the process is Chair Anne Stephenson; a long-time art lover, collector, and dedicated supporter of the NZ Art Show for more than two decades. Anne’s involvement with the Show has spanned from providing accounting services in its early years, through to serving on the Board and now leading as Chair.
Joining her is Neil Paviour-Smith, another passionate art collector and long-standing supporter of the arts.
David Foot, part of the family behind Brendan Foot Supersite, also brings a deep appreciation for creativity, collecting, and supporting New Zealand artists.
Board member Jane Hart contributes a highly creative lens shaped through her background in fashion, interior design, and a remarkable personal art collection.
And while each Board member brings a different perspective, they all share one thing in common; a genuine love of art and the belief that art should connect with people in meaningful ways.
“This felt like the perfect year to change things up a little,” says NZ Art Show Executive Director Carla Russell.
“The People’s Choice Award has always been about connection. Not just what is technically ‘best’, but what resonates. What stops people in their tracks? What creates conversation. By involving the Board in selecting the finalists, we’re bringing together a range of perspectives: collectors, creatives, supporters of the arts; before ultimately handing the decision over to the public, where it belongs.”
The final 10 artworks will be announced prior to the show, with visitors invited to cast their votes throughout the event weekend.
Em Wafer won the People’s Choice Art Award 2025
The runs Friday 29 May to Sunday 31 May 2026 at TSB Arena and Shed 6 on Wellington Waterfront.
Tickets are available now via Universe: Ticketmaster Visitors are encouraged to book early and make the most of one of Wellington’s signature King’s Birthday Weekend events.
