Art Gallery, AUT University partner for Triennial

MEDIA RELEASE

6 October 2006

Art Gallery and AUT University partner to keep visual arts in the public eye

The Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki has signed a major partnership deal with AUT University to support the next three Auckland Triennial exhibitions through to 2013.

The Auckland Triennial has rapidly established itself as New Zealand’s premier international contemporary art event. Held every three years, it provides a window onto the world of contemporary art, creating a dialogue between local artists and their global counterparts.

Mayor of Auckland city Dick Hubbard says AUT has made a significant commitment to Auckland as the new Auckland Triennial Partner, taking a lead position in helping to develop the exhibition for 2007 and beyond.

“AUT’s commitment for the next three Auckland Triennials is integral to the future success and growth of this major contemporary art event,” Mr Hubbard says.

"This partnership provides an ideal opportunity to foster innovation in visual arts which will enhance Auckland’s and New Zealand’s international profile."

AUT Vice-chancellor Derek McCormack says the partnership reflects their commitment to supporting Auckland’s creative sector and, in particular, visual arts. “The Triennials are about contemporary art, so that is a perfect association for AUT University,” says Mr. McCormack.

“With our School of Art and Design and our St Paul Street Gallery, AUT is a significant member of Auckland’s arts community. With this new and exciting partnership we’re further enhancing our contribution."

Auckland Art Gallery director Chris Saines says the major event partnership represents a coming of age for the gallery.

“This partnership supports an event that puts Auckland on the map of the international arts community and gives the public access to some of the world’s most innovative new art – without having to leave the country,” Mr Saines says.

The third Auckland Triennial exhibition will open on 9 March 2007 and is timed to coincide with AK07 as the Auckland Festival’s key visual arts event.

Forty artists from at least 20 countries will present major works not previously seen in New Zealand in diverse mediums including painting, sculpture, photography, video, installation, film, performance and international collaborative actions.

Note to editors

The Auckland Art Gallery initiated and launched the inaugural Auckland Triennial, Bright Paradise in 2001, clearly demonstrating the exhibition as an event that could be owned by the wider art community. In 2004 the 2nd Auckland Triennial, Public/Private: Tumataiti/Tumatanui, successfully presented a mix of artists and projects earning the show Metro’s 2004 Exhibition of the Year Award.

Since the Auckland Triennial was created it has shown 70 artists, from 14 countries, attracted over 30,000 visitors and received extensive media coverage and reviews from national and international media.

ENDS

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