Established and budding artists have a creative outlet right here in The West. Waitākere Central Community Arts Council is an artist-led and run organisation based at the Corban Estate Arts Centre in Henderson.
For nearly 60 years, young and emerging artists or well-established and experienced creators have come together to share their knowledge and support each other’s practice and passion. This vibrant community includes diverse artistic styles, techniques and experience levels.
President Sue Butler explains that Waitākere Arts offers open sessions, workshops, and classes in a wide range of mediums. You can choose from painting, drawing, abstract, ceramics and mixed media. Sue says that an average of 200 people take part in classes and activities every month, inspiring and motivating each other.
The organisation holds two exhibitions each year to promote and support artists. These are opportunities for artists to showcase their work to a broad audience, with as many as 2,000 visitors.
Sponsored by The Trusts, The Trusts Art Awards and Exhibition is now in its 37th year and is held in the spring. It’s a must-see event for art lovers across the region, with over 400 artworks and generous prizes for well-deserving artists.
Waitākere Arts has just completed the annual Members Expo. Many members’ artworks were on display and available to purchase at this eagerly anticipated event. There were also plenty of opportunities for artists to attend demonstrations and free workshops to learn new techniques and hone their craft.
As a registered charity, Waitākere Arts relies on funders’ support to keep the show on the road. Sue says keeping membership fees as low as possible is a priority to make art accessible to everyone.
The organisation applied to the 2023 Your West Support Fund for help putting on low-cost and free workshops. Funding of $5,000 has been spent on tutors’ fees and materials.
According to Sue, the support has helped ensure that arts activities are accessible to those who might not otherwise be able to afford to participate. ‘It’s helped our art community come together and enjoy various artistic offerings in groups throughout the year,’ declares Sue.
Waitākere Central Community Arts Council is a hive of creative activity. Why not get involved and unleash your artistic talents? Go to the website for more information.
