Creative New Zealand Media Release:
Creative New Zealand is pleased to announce the appointment of published writer, theatre producer and documentary
director Makerita Urale as the Senior Programme Adviser, Pacific Arts.
With 18 years of experience in the arts industry including mentoring many emerging artists, Samoan-born Makerita says
her passion for the arts and hands on experience will be valuable in advising artists looking for support from Creative
New Zealand.
“I have been an artist across different art genres and know how difficult it can be to realise creative projects in New
Zealand, or take them to larger overseas markets. I will be working with artists to provide support and advice that will
help them achieve their projects,” said Makerita.
“Pacific arts are unique to our part of the world and I am also looking forward to introducing them to an international
audience where is already a growing interest in the work.”
Recently Makerita was the Project Manager for ARTSpeak Pasifika 2010 a two-day national fono for Pacific artists and
arts practitioners.
The Creative New Zealand event was an opportunity for those working in visual arts, performing arts, film and
television, music, literature and heritage arts to share ideas and participate in panel discussions designed to provide
inspiration and practical advice on making a successful career in the arts.
Having just finished her time as the Fulbright-Creative New Zealand writer in residence at the University of Hawai’i,
Makerita appreciates the opportunities Creative New Zealand presents to artists.
“With the support of Creative New Zealand artists are afforded the space to let their ideas breathe and take life, it’s
exciting to be part of an organisation that can have such a positive impact”.
You can read more about Makerita on the Creative New Zealand website http://www.creativenz.govt.nz/who_we_are/our_staff/arts_development_staff_profiles
ENDS