Local businesses in Raglan have really come to the fore in their support of one of the township’s most loved events, the Raglan Arts Weekend (RAW).
“Grant money is getting more difficult to attract, and so we’ve been looking at a more sustainable business model that can support all the ideas and growth we’re seeing as an event,” says Nicky Brzeska, RAW Co-ordinator since 2019.
Two long term partnerships have been set up with Rangitahi Peninsula and Bayleys Real Estate this year, to add to the support Tony Sly and other businesses in Raglan have shown since the event’s inception 13 years ago. The investment is helping the event to expand beyond the self-guided trail – and include activities for both visitors and the registered artists to enjoy.
The Bayleys Real Estate’s partnership is enabling an ‘Artist Connect’ event, a coach for the RAW 2023 artists before the weekend kicks off, allowing them to meet each other and see other art studios. It culminates in an opening cocktail/ dinner event at Rock-it, open to all, and the official start of the RAW weekend.
The Rangitahi partnership is, amongst other things, co-funding ‘The Hatch’, together with the Waikato District Council Creative Communities. ‘The Hatch’ is an Emerging Artists exhibition of 15 new artists in the Town Hall over the RAW weekend. There will be an opening night where everyone is welcome to visit and show support of the next wave of Whaingaroa art talent.
Other local businesses who have always been loyal to RAW include Palm Prints, Tony Sly, Little Hill Studios, Artists at Work Studios & Gallery, La Petite Galerie, Rivet, Monster Gallery, Jet, Raglan Sunset Motel and Raglan Holiday Park.
RAW is a ‘Creative Raglan’ event that is run by the Raglan Community Arts Council
RAW Opening Night @ Rock-it: Thurs 19th Oct, 6.30pm to 8.30pm; tickets are $40 for a 4 course ‘walk and fork’ menu and drink upon arrival
‘The Hatch’ Emerging Artist Exhibition Opening @ Town Hall: Fri 20th Oct, 6.30pm; free event
RAW Open studios self-guided art trail: Sat 21st Oct to Mon 23rd Oct, 10am to 5pm. (Both Rangitahi Peninsula and Bayleys Real Estate will have artists showcasing work in their offices).
