Registrations for artists for the annual Raglan Arts Weekend (RAW) have now closed with the same amount of artists signed up as last year, but emerging talent still has a chance to enter through ‘The Hatch’.
Throughout May, those artists who consider themselves ‘new’ or ‘emerging’ will be able to apply to be a part of a group exhibition in the Town Hall over the RAW weekend. Approximately 15 artists will be selected to not only exhibit, but to receive guidance and support in their creative journeys.
“Last year’s opening at The Hatch had well over 200 people attend and it was very rewarding to see our next wave of creatives putting themselves out there, meeting potential buyers and selling their work,” says Nicky Brzeska, RAW co-ordinator since 2019. “We are very fortunate that we have Caleb Osborne running the show for us again as he brings a great inclusive energy, has an instinct for what works, and is clearly well tapped into the scene.”
The team is on the hunt for emerging artists to apply for one of the 15 spots up for grabs. “Our application process is simple and the only two requirements are that you identify with the emerging artist definition on our website, and that you live locally in the Whaingaroa area,” Caleb says. “You won’t need a huge body of work either, typically 3 to 4 larger works or 6 – 8 smaller works per artist. We are here to help our new artists by providing a platform, exhibiting materials and guidance around promoting and exhibiting,” he adds.
Applications will be open until 31 May. Visit www.raglanartsweekend.nz and look under ‘’Emerging Artists” for the application form. For any questions, please reach out to Caleb on rawemergingartist@outlook.co.nz.
A big shout out to the team at Rangitahi Peninsula for their generous support of this event, as well as to the Waikato District Council Creative Communities for their grant.
