Whaingaroa has risen to the challenge again and delivered the next wave of emerging art talent, a group of 14 new artists to celebrate the fourteenth Raglan Arts Weekend.
The new creatives have been selected to take part in ‘The Hatch’, Raglan Arts Weekend’s emerging artist incubator, set up to nurture and encourage new talent. They will receive guidance and mentorship in the next three months as they work towards their first group exhibition, opening Friday 25th October 2024.
“There are many potential barriers to entry for new artists, from exhibition venues to gallery commission costs as well as support networks to guide artists through,” says Caleb Osborne, who is leading The Hatch for the second year now. “We’re hoping to help artists navigate this through providing a platform, exhibiting materials and guidance around the promotion and exhibiting process.”
This year’s group includes clay work – both functional and sculpture, acrylic and oil painting, Kākahu weaving, as well as a great representation of both digital and analogue photography. Two of 2023’s ‘Hatchlings’ have flown the nest and are in the RAW main event this year (Liza Adams and Zasha Skye), underscoring the successful model being used. Four 2024 Hatchlings are bringing their 2023 experience again to the show, and 10 are completely new.
The Hatch has been made possible by funding from the Waikato District Creative Communities Fund as well as from a long-term partnership with Rangitahi Peninsula. “It’s been great to see these organisations back such an important step in the growth of RAW,” says Nicky Brzeska, RAW Co-Ordinator since 2019. “With their funding, we’re really able to help set up this supportive environment that places importance on collaboration, connection and up-skilling of this new wave of creatives.”
“For a sustainable arts community, we believe that platforms such as these are key to unearthing potential talent,” says Sam Laity, general manager at Rangitahi. “‘The Hatch’ really feels like a groundswell incubator, and we hope it will not only support the next gen of artists but will help Raglan locals and visitors discover new styles and creators.”
Last year’s opening night drew approximately 300 people out to see what was on show. The team would love to have that energy again, so block the date in your calendar to be a part of the action. The event is free and un-ticketed.
The Hatch emerging artists for this year are: Lucy Aitken Read, Honey Armstrong, Kayla Bacon, Lynn Beadle, Ailene Cuthbertson, Emma Galloway, Eleanor Gee, David Grace, Cassey Locke, David Loughlin, Rosa Mackesy , Esther Miro Bryant-Lindsay, Paula Moy, Bridget Tasker.
The Hatch opening night is on Friday 25th October 2024 at 6.30pm in the Town Hall.
The Hatch Group Exhibition is open over RAW from Saturday 26th October to Monday 28th October, 10am to 5pm.
Visit www.raglanartsweekend.nz for more information.
