It’s a highly anticipated arts event in the North Island, and this year is even more special as Raglan celebrates its tenth annual Raglan Arts Weekend this Easter.
Locals and visitors alike will be treated to the biggest Arts Weekend yet, where 37 artists across a very diverse range of media will share their creative talents over three days.
“Raglan has been an inspiring place for many artists, and we’ve seen top internationally acclaimed talent first start out in our event, which is both humbling and amazing,” says Nicky Brzeska, co-ordinator of the Arts Weekend. “The Weekend gives everyone a chance to connect with artists and artworks and have a sneak peek into studios and creative processes which aren’t usually that accessible.”
Visitors and locals will get a chance to visit Sam Mathers’ new studio which is being built for the Weekend, as well as some other hot favourites including Miranda Caird, Toni Kingstone, Rick Youmans and The Monster Company. It’s possible to tick off a few artists in one visit, such as Studeo where taxidermy, panel & paint and clay come together, or Palm Prints where Jane Galloway, Stuart Mackenzie and Julian Godfrey reside.
The Old School Arts Centre will also host a couple of artist studios, as well as the Preview Exhibition where you’ll be able to get a taste of the arts trail to help you plan your visit. Also on offer is ‘Eats and Treats’, a collection of delicious food stalls open from 10am-2pm on the Saturday and Sunday. Some foodie favourites include Pie-Kai’s hand crafted pies, the coffee guru Mal and Raglan Chocolate.
For full details of each participating artist and directions to their studios, pick up a copy of the official Raglan Arts Trail Brochure, designed by Raglan-based agency Mafia Designs. You can collect them from the Old School Arts Centre, the Raglan i-SITE or various Raglan cafes and galleries. Most studios are open from 10am until 5pm with a handful closing at 3pm over the three days.
You can also learn more about each artist at facebook.com/raglanart or raglanartsweekend.nz.
