The No. 8 Wire - Issue 20

Gondwanaland Ministry of Culture
Artists' Information Bureau

************************************************************************

An Electronic Alert for 519 of Wellington's Creative People



20.00
ACT I, SCENE I

On a ship at sea: a tempestuous noise of thunder and lightning heard.

(Enter a Master and a Boatswain)

Master: Boatswain!
Boatswain: Here, master: what cheer?

_____________________________________________________________________

20.01
ICH BIN EIN BERLINER?

Creative New Zealand seeks applications to its Berlin Writers' Residency
The Arts Board of Creative New Zealand is calling for applications to the 2005 Creative New Zealand Berlin Writers' Residency, which offers a New Zealand writer the opportunity to live and write in Berlin for a period of between eight months and one year.
The biennial residency includes the rental costs of an apartment in the centre of Berlin, a stipend of NZ$3000 a month and a return airfare from New Zealand to Germany. The selected writer will work on an approved project and must be able to undertake the residency for a negotiable period between August 2005 and July 2006.
Previous recipients are Sarah Quigley, Tina Shaw, Kapka Kassabova and Philip Temple. Temple, who returned to Dunedin from the 2003 residency in late May, worked on two projects while he was in Berlin. The first - a work of fiction/history/memoir - is called White Shadows and will be published by Vintage New Zealand in March 2005. The second project, a novel, involved extensive research.
The residency is open to established New Zealand writers who have been resident in New Zealand for at least three years prior to making the application. Applications close at 5pm on Friday 11 February 2005. Residency guidelines can be downloaded from the resources section of Creative New Zealand's website
www.creativenz.govt.nz
or by contacting
Rosemary Wildblood
04-498 0741
rosemaryw@creativenz.govt.nz
or Danielle Tolson
Tel: 04-473 0184
daniellet@creativenz.govt.nz

__________________________________________________________________

20.02
DEAR NO.8 WIRE

My name is Charles Barrie and I am a student at Victoria University of
Wellington. I am in the process of organizing a multicultural extravaganza
which has been given the name of “The Be What You Are Festival: a
celebration of unity in diversity”. The vision of “be what you are” is
threefold:

-To create a safe, joyous, healing space where people can come
together to celebrate life and unite across all boundaries of race,
religion, sex, creed or age.

- To attempt to eliminate fear, isolation, discrimination, and
separation from our lives by experiencing and attempting to understand the way others live in, and view the world.

- To bring people together and unite in the attempt to build a
more peaceful world based on peace, sharing, creativity and cooperation.

The festival is a one day (11am-5pm) celebration which will be held in Cuba mall on Saturday, 4th of December. It is aimed at all people, families and young children included, from Wellington and beyond. Helen Ray at the WCC has given her approval for the festival, and the Cuba mall has been booked.

The festival will include a range of diverse bands and music (both popular
local bands and cultural/ethnic performers), interspersed with speakers and presentations from representatives of different cultural, religious and
lifestyle groups. Each speaker will give a brief talk on the topics of
peace, creativity, unity and cross-cultural harmony.

There will also be performances and participatory activities throughout the day. The idea is to create a vibrant atmosphere where people can feel free to step out of their comfort zones and more fully embrace the glorious unity and diversity of life. Confirmed performers and speakers include ethnic fusion dance group “Indigo fusion dance co.”, yoga monk Dada Jiterananda, Zen teacher Phillip Squire, poets; Lewis Scott, Basim Furat and Yilma Tasew, violin virtuoso Elena, Gareth Farr and Ryan Prebble. The Wellington group Dances of universal peace have agreed to conduct a participatory peace dance to finish off the day.

On the day there will also be stalls from local volunteer, environmental,
and creative groups hoping to inspire the festival goers to take a more
active role in the community; these include Unicef, Trade aid, The Learning Connexion.. I have also spoken to Vincent’s community art centre and they are very enthusiastic about the day. I have encouraged them and a large number of other artists to come to the mall on the day and sculpt, paint, draw, dance, write and sing in order to create a general aura of creativity and cooperation which hopefully will rub off on and inspire others. Festival goers will be invited to bring along their own creativity and diverse ways of celebrating life to the festival also.

The idea for this festival arose under the stimulus of the recent threats to
cross-cultural stability in Wellington, New Zealand and the whole world. It
is hoped that by exposing the audience to such a large variety of different views on, and ways of celebrating life, a feeling of the importance of attempting to reach out, unite and cooperate across perceived boundaries will develop. If this idea speaks to you and you would like to get involved or offer support in anyway please don’t hesitate to contact me.

prophetofmaitreya@hotmail.com
Phone: 04 475 5085
__________________________________________________________________

20.03
WRITING THE WORLD

Applications are invited for the New Zealand Book Council Creative New Zealand International Writers' Programme 2005.

The International Writers' Programme gives writers the opportunity to attend an offshore festival or undertake other promotional activities associated with overseas publication of their work during 2005.

The programme is open to writers of fiction, poetry, children's literature, drama and non-fiction who are New Zealand citizens or have New Zealand residency.

For more information and an application form, contact the International Writers' Programme, New Zealand Book Council, Level 5, Old Wool House, 139 Featherston Street, Wellington 6001, email director@bookcouncil.org.nz

Applications close on 22 December 2004.

___________________________________________________________________

20.04
MEZZO-SPACE

Paintings by Andrei Overweel
December 2 to 9

Paintings by Mark Molnar and Adrienn Gyongyosi
December 13 to 23

Wellington Main Library
Mezzanine Floor, next to Clark’s Café

Mezzo-space is a new initiative by Wellington City Council’s Community Arts Office, to provide no-cost temporary exhibition room for local artists. The hall is located on the mezzanine level of the main library, in the former BAM Bookstore space. Artists and groups interested in proposing an exhibition for mezzo-space, should contact Eric Holowacz on 385-1929 or arts@wcc.govt.nz to learn about the guidelines and requirements.

___________________________________________________________________

20.05
GLOBAL FLEET

The start gun has been fired for Leg 2 of the Global Challenge 2004 – 2005 from the Yacht Club Argentino. The yachts sail south from Buenos Aires, turning westwards to round Cape Horn. The fleet battles across these isolated waters for more than five weeks, and 6,100 nautical miles, before landfall in Wellington.

The Global Challenge fleet of 12 identical yachts, crewed by amateurs, races around the globe against prevailing winds and currents. The leading yachts are expected to arrive in Wellington at the end of leg two from Buenos Aries between 3-10 January. The fleet will leave Wellington for Sydney on Waitangi day, completing a harbour course before racing across the Tasman.

A number of stopover events are planned including a street parade on 10 January through downtown Wellington to Civic Square where all crew members and sponsors will be officially welcomed to Wellington. Queens Wharf will also be full of action with live entertainment, corporate sailing, sponsor giveaways, and the official farewell ceremony on Waitangi Day.

The public will also get the chance to board the yachts and support Save the Children New Zealand during a public open day on 30 January – a rare opportunity for an international sailing event of this scale.

To keep track of the action as the Global Challenge fleet closes in to Wellington check out www.globalchallenge2004.com.

___________________________________________________________________

20.06
COMEDIC CHIROPTERA

This week at BATS we are very excited to present Taki Rua's Untold Tales of Maui. If you haven't already booked the season is completely sold out. You can book on to a waiting list by replying to this email or turn up at 8pm any night of the performance to put your name down for standby return tickets for the evening. Alternatively you could call Downstage as the season has extended there for 5 nights - 14 - 18 December. Call 802 6946 for more information.

But don't despair! Cracks in the Garden has returned for a three night season this week - Jo Randerson and Gentiane Lupi present their critically acclaimed show for a limited season. Book now to avoid disappointment, this show is hot.

To book for any performance simply email BATS with your name, number of tickets and date you wish to attend. We will reply to confirm your booking and you can pay when you come to the show.

Coming up next at BATS - The 8: Reindeer Monologues and Glamarama - seeing the year out in style. Check out www.bats.co.nz for more information.

Cracks in the Garden
Season: Thursday 2nd - Saturday 4th December
Time: 7pm
Tickets: $15 full/ $12 concession

STOP PRESS!! Cracks In The Garden is back at BATS for Three Nights Only!!

We're doing a quick pre-Christmas season because heaps of people want to see the show again or missed it the first time, and also so we can film the show to send to festivals overseas. Don't miss Jo and Gentiane before they take off to Europe - this could be your last chance.

Cracks In the Garden won the Best Comedy Award at the 2003 Melbourne Fringe Festival and has received rave reviews around New Zealand.

”There are hints of violence and sexual involvement, breakdowns and sulks, mental instability, co-dependency and religious obsession. There is also a bear suit and a giant cheese. Intelligent, disturbing, character-based comedy....works brilliantly." The Age, Melbourne, 2003.

BATS Theatre is at
1 Kent Terrace
Wellington
bats@bats.co.nz
bookings 802 4175
office 802 4176
fax 802 4010
www.bats.co.nz

___________________________________________________________________

20.07
MAORI SHOWBANDS - TE PAPA'S FIRST ON-LINE EXHIBITION

Maori Showbands, Te Papa's first on-line exhibition is being launched on 4 December.

This exhibition celebrates the musical phenomenon of the 1950s and 60s when a generation of multi-talented performers took their unique blend of popular music and Maori culture from New Zealand to the world.

Visitors to Maori Showbands will experience an insight into the sensational rise of the showbands through stories, photographs, quotes, scrapbook memories, music and film clips. The parade of singers, musicians, and bands profiled include such greats as the Maori Hi Five, the Maori Hi Quins, the Quin Tikis, the Maori Premiers, Maori Volcanics and the Howard Morrison Quartet.

The roots of the showbands are explored through Maori musical traditions and kapa haka concert parties. The exhibition also highlights notable musical forebears in the popular entertainment field such as Epi Shalfoon, Ana Hato, the Tahiwi whanau, and Ruru Karaitiana.

Visitors will learn about the influences that have shaped popular Maori music. The styles that were drawn on such as - rhythm and blues, Hawaiian music, show tunes, even music hall comedy to create their own unique genre.

The Maori Showbands website is being launched on Saturday 4 December, 1.30pm, followed by a panel discussion. Visitors will hear musicians talk about their showband experiences and will enjoy a live performance. Soundings Theatre, Level 2, Free entry.

To celebrate the launch of the website, Te Papa presents The Maori Volcanics and Rim D Paul with friends reuniting for a one-time only concert. Soundings Theatre, Te Papa, Saturday 4 December at 7.30pm. Tickets available from all Ticketek outlets.

Maori Showbands, www.maorishowbands.co.nz Te Papa's first online exhibition is being launched on 4 December 2004.


___________________________________________________________________

20.08
LIVE AND ALIVE AT HAPPY

Thursday December 2nd at 10pm
The Jonathan Crayford Trio
Wellington’s finest jazz pianist performing with Anthony Donaldson and Patrick Bleakley

Friday December 3rd at 10pm
Olmecha Supreme with guests DJs
Feat. Imon Starr (from Rhombus) and more.

Saturday December 4th at 10pm
Odessa
The core of OdESSA formed in 2002, when guitarist Armitage met up with an old friend Pender by chance and the two got talking. "I had a few songs and ideas kicking around and we thought it'd be fun to get together and work on them" remembers lead-vocalist Pender. Shortly after, Armitage was asked by a friend to scramble together a band to play at her farewell party. Paul Mouncey was asked on board to play bass. An old friend that studied with Armitage at Wellington's Conservatorium Of Music 3 years previous, Mouncey was a regular on the local circuit with bands Fisting Gorillia Man and Benny And The Jets. His input fleshed out the bare-bones of the new compositions with fluid rhythms and funkier grooves. The bands first drummer, Myles Climo, completed the groups first line-up.

They decided the group needed a name but settling on one proved difficult. We argued for ages about other names" says Pender "But we couldn't agree." The girl who invited the band to play at her party was named Odessa. The group adopted her name partly in tribute, partly for lack of anything else. "We decided on OdESSA as a kind of in-joke, until eventually we'd come up with something else." After that first night, the band agreed to continue together to try and find some other work. After taking round a cassette tape of the band's rehersals to various bars trying to convince their managers to hire them, OdESSA were booked for nights at three seperate bars, the first of which was Cuba Street's Blue Note on June the 8th 2002.

After that first public outing, Climo quit the group. Matt Swain - aka 'Puba' - who had recently departed local punk band Monkey Puzzle, was recruited and the band managed to get more gigs, including an 18 month residency at Amba bar. With just a handful of gigs behind them, the band entered the 2002 National Battle Of The Bands competition, winning the Wellington leg before travelling to Auckland and finishing second overall. The prize money helped the band to invest in some better equipment. "We played gigs anywhere," remembers Pender "Anywhere that would have us. We just wanted as many people to see us as possible. And in the process we got better as a band."

In the two years since forming, OdESSA have played over a hundred shows. These include the 2004 Alpine Unity, an acclaimed performance at the 2003 Wellington Music Awards and support slots with Auckland funk collective one million dollars, Darren Watson and others. OdESSA will release their debut L.P in late 2004.

Tuesday December 7th at 10pm
The Dodecahedrons

Wednesday December 8th at 10pm
Tessa Rain
From City Chorus. Featuring members of Bleakhouse and Spartacus R

Coming up at Happy:
Pine with Hot Swiss Mistress (Dec 11th); Damo Suzuki with the Flower Orphans (Dec 12th); Gerard Masters Trio (14th-15th Dec) . . . and next year, The New Zealand Fringe Festival, Nights of the Flaming Anvil 2 and more and more music. Music makes us Happy.

If you would like to be added to Happy’s weekly email, please sent message to producer@happy.net.nz

Happy
underground, corner Vivian and Tory Streets
PO Box 9069
Wellington
+64 4 384 1965
www.happy.net.nz

presenting: improvised music, rock'n'roll, jazz, afrobeat, experimental music, funk, dub, free jazz, turntablism, contemporary classical, noise, punk, performance art, theatre, hip hop, reggae, electro-pop, folk, minimalism . . . live music, live performance

__________________________________________________________________

20.09
ARTISTS GET ARMED

Because of public demand, ARMS have scheduled two more sessions of its popular (and free!) arts/business workshop about marketing and promotion (in association with The Biz Centre).

“Get Bizzy and Make Some Noise” is designed for visual artists, performers, musicians, writers, designers and others who want to boost their income and develop long-term sustainable careers in the creative industries. During a fast-paced, humorous and interactive 180 minutes, participants find out ways to boost profitability and promote themselves and their work in the local, national and global market.

We'd appreciate you notifying anyone you think may be interested in this opportunity…

The two options available are:
Thursday 9 December from 2-5pm
OR
Tuesday 14 December from 2-5pm.
FREE

The venue is the Wellington Chamber of Commerce, which is on Level 9 of Gen-i House, 109 Featherston Street (railway station end, just north of Waring Taylor Street).

Prospective participants MUST register (numbers are limited). Register by emailing (workshops@arms.org.nz) or ringing 021 2200 400 with a contact email address and/or phone number, indicating session preference.

_____________________________________________________________________

20.10
A GOOD READ

http://www.theartnewspaper.com/

____________________________________________________________________

20.11
GOING WILD

Three New Zealand artists – Tabatha Forbes, Waikerere Gregory and Alison Isadora - have been selected by the Department of Conservation and Creative New Zealand to take up Wild Creations artist residencies in 2005.

Raglan mixed media artist Waikarere Gregory will take up her residency in Aniwaniwa, Te Urewera National Park to develop a body of work involving sculpture, written work and performance.

She plans to work with the local Tuhoe people, bringing her artistic training into practice alongside the Maori perspective of the inter-relationship between all the natural forces.

Auckland multi-media artist Tabatha Forbes has chosen Kingston in Central Otago as her residency site. She will develop a painting project, producing a series of botanical studies unique to the environment and a video work that explores the “sublime” experience within the environment in the tradition of late nineteenth-century painters.

Audio artist and composer Alison Isadora, formerly of Wellington but now based in the Netherlands, intends to spend time in Bannockburn, Central Otago collecting sound material to produce a collection of songs. She will also collect images of the river and create an interactive performance piece or installation.

Wild Creations is a partnership between the Department of Conservation and Creative New Zealand. It aims to foster links between conservation and artists by encouraging artists to create work inspired by New Zealand’s unique places, people, stories and natural environment.

More than 60 artists applied for the 2005 six-week residencies, which will take place at a range of conservation sites throughout New Zealand. DOC provides accommodation and logistical support for the artists. Creative New Zealand provides a stipend of $5000, plus up to $1000 for travel and materials to each artist.

Chair of the selection panel Kerry Marshall said the panel was impressed with the high calibre of entries, and thanked all the artists for the time and thought put into their applications.

Members of the panel looked for applications that demonstrated an excellent understanding of the purpose of the Wild Creations programme and how a residency would expand their practice. They also looked for an expression from artists of a clear connection between the natural and cultural values of their chosen area and how a residency in that area would inform and inspire their work.

“The three artists we finally selected ranked highly against the selection criteria and we anticipate great outcomes from the residencies,” Mr Marshall said.

Anne McLean, programme co-ordinator for DOC, said that the residencies were an ideal way of promoting New Zealand’s natural and historic heritage.

“The high standard of applications received since Wild Creation’s inauguration in 2002 is a clear affirmation of the programme’s potential. The artists involved to date have demonstrated the purpose and value of the programme through their involvement with the people and place of their chosen site, and have shared that experience through the works resulting from their residencies.”

Elizabeth Kerr, Chief Executive of Creative New Zealand, said that New Zealand artists had always been influenced by this country’s landscape – the coastlines, the open spaces and the long views.

“There’s a clarity about New Zealand art that springs from our wild places and we’ve seen some exciting outcomes from previous Wild Creations recipients,” Miss Kerr said. “This partnership continues to demonstrate the way government organisations can work together to enhance their resources and achieve their goals.”

For further information please contact:
Anne McLean, DOC Senior Awareness Conservation Manager, 04 471 3182
Undine Marshfield, Senior Media and Communications Adviser, Creative New Zealand

Tel: 04 498 0725 Mob: 0274 965 925 Email: undinem@creativenz.govt.nz

___________________________________________________________________

20.12
CREATIVE SUN ALSO RISES

Call for Participants from Fletcher Hanscomb

On Saturday, 11th December at Aro Community Hall, I am holding a
creative poster making evening. The aim is to create a range of original one-off posters for the Wellington Festival of the Sun, planned for early 2005. it is also an opportunity for individuals to meet and communicate with their creative counterparts. I am inviting a number of young and older creative types, whom I hope I have inspired enough to attend.

I am providing a light meal BBQ styles on the night and basic materials for
the poster creation: paper/paint/brushes etc. It is also a great opportunity to explain my vision for Festival of the Sun to those who come along.
If you know of anyone who would like to get involved, including yourself
of-course, here are the details.

Where: Aro Community Hall
What: poster making, great social environment, light dinner.
Why: To further communication in the creative community and promote the Wellington Festival of the Sun.
When: Sat the 11th December 2004 from 4pm onwards.

Give us a bell with your thoughts.

Fletch
fletch111@hotmail.com

____________________________________________________________________

20.13
ABC’S AT INVERLOCHY

Inverlochy Art School
ABC Group Exhibition

4-12 December
Opening Reception at 7pm on 4 December
Guest Speaker: Tony Arthur

Ten emerging artists from Inverlochy’s ABC Painting Course, under instructor Roberto Paulet, exhibit their work.

Inverlochy@paradise.net.nz
__________________________________________________________________

20.14
LAND OF DIXIE

Wellingtonians will be able to enjoy Dixieland jazz next Sunday 12 December while they explore the historic Melrose house and garden where the Plunket Society had its origins.

The former home of Plunket Society founders Dr Frederic Truby King and his wife Isabella will be open to the public as part of an annual open day from 1pm to 5pm.

Truby King Trust and Friends of the Botanic Garden members will be taking guided tours of the house and garden, there will be live music and a room where visitors can look at historic photos and listen to recorded conversations with nurses, staff and others who lived or worked in the house at one time.

Truby King and his wife co-founded the Plunket Society in 1907 and later founded similar societies in England, Australia, South Africa, India and Canada. Their bodies are buried in a mausoleum in the garden.

The Plunket Society took over the property and adjacent baby products factory in 1932. The house was used as a dormitory for senior nurses and at other times as Plunket Society offices.

City Council Botanic Gardens Manager David Sole says the 1.9 hectare property now known as Truby King Park has been owned by the Council since 1990. The garden is always open to the public but the house is normally only open by arrangement.

"The hill-top property has fantastic views and numerous elaborate brick walls and pergolas," he says. "It is a very special place that many people probably aren't aware of and well worth a visit."

Designed by prominent local architect William Gray Young, the 1923 house has New Zealand Historic Places Trust and City Council heritage listings and lots of original features including wood panelling and an inglenook fireplace.

It is intended the library of the house will eventually be developed as a small museum with the living and dining rooms restored so they can be more regularly used by the public for functions.

Parking for the open day is available on Manchester Street, Rodrigo Road and Sutherland Road but not in the park itself.

___________________________________________________________________

20.15
CONNECTING ART AND LIFE

This is your personal invitation to the End of 2004 Student Art Exhibition @ The Learning Connexion – please come and visit and see how hard our talented students have worked this year!

Our exhibition opens on Thursday 9 December 2004 at 7.30pm, and final entry will be at 9.30pm – but we promise to leave you a little bit of “meandering time”! We’ll also be open Friday 10, Saturday 11, and Sunday 12 December, 10.00am to 4.00pm.

Over 600 fabulous artworks will be on display, including paintings, drawings, pastels, sculpture, ceramics, photography, print, computer graphics, videography, and design … These innovative works from up-and-coming as well as established artists reflect their passion for art, with an emphasis on creativity and thinking beyond the usual thoughts. You’re welcome to bring your friends, family, workmates, neighbours … you will walk away from our exhibition stunned and amazed!

We hope to see you – and by the way, Merry Christmas and we wish a safe and happy holiday season to you!

Debbie McGuire
The Learning Connexion
PO Box 9811, 31 Avon St, Island Bay, Wellington
DDI: (04) 383-4325
www.tlc.ac.nz

_______________________________________________________________________

20.16
GOOD FOLKS

Step back in time to celebrate the days of yore when the FOLKLORE FESTIVAL comes to Frank Kitts Park on Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 January 2005. From Blacksmiths to Fortune Tellers, Craft Stalls to Medieval Feasts, Games to Story Tellers – this free event will appeal to young and old – so don your suit of armour, blacken your teeth and get set for a merry old time! Save the weekend in your diary, and check out

www.wellingtonwaterfront.co.nz

________________________________________________________________________

20.17
IN THE LONG GRASS

Long Grass Theatre Creating theatre in the Outdoors…
Following the successful theatrical event of Te Ngararahuarau in 2001 at the Tui Tree field, Suzan Jessie and Bert van Dijk have teamed up again to offer another invigorating and uplifting experience for young and old, novices and professionals, shy and bold.
Long Grass Theatre is a 6-day creative outdoor event in beautiful Wainui Bay (Golden Bay).
With the use of an old fantastical story to inspire the creation of original songs, choreography, puppets and action, the dramatic scenes will be placed in the natural environment of bush, creek, beach and field.
Long Grass Theatre is community theatre at its roots with the participants living, eating and creating together in breathtakingly beautiful surroundings, just a skip and jump away from the golden beach of Wainui Bay. The treefield is well provided with communal toilets, showers, cooking facilities and a number of huge tents in the unlikely case of bad weather.
Imagine sitting in the dark around a huge fire, listening to an ancient tale or dancing amongst the trees and waves and streams or making puppets out of driftwood and the treaures of the land…….
This imaginative venture will be facilitated by internationally renowed theatre maker Bert van Dijk, local artist Suzan Jessie and creator extraordinaire Kim Merry.
Dates: January 18 – 23, 2005
Venue: Tui Tree Field, Tui Community, Wainui Bay, Golden Bay
Cost: Adults (16yr +): $550.00
Kids: single $350.00 / 2 kids or more $275.00 each
If paid in full by December 14, 2004
Adult: $475.00
Kids: $275.00 / $225.00
This fee includes: food, materials, camping cost and tuition fees!
Further information:
Suzan Jessie, Ph: 03 525 9641 / Email: jimsuzi@goldenbay.net.nz

_______________________________________________________________________

20.18
TEACHING THE WORLD OT SING

Wellington World Choir
End of Year Performance
Saturday, December 14 at 8pm
St. Hilda’s Church, Island Bay
311 The Parade
koha appreciated
bertvd@clear.net.nz

________________________________________________________________________

20.19
MAORI ARTS

To launch the New Year, the 5th Toi Maori Festival will be taking place in Hastings at the Hawke's Bay Exhibition Centre and adjacent Civic Square in a week-long programme of events across all of our artforms. The 'Te Maia Exhibition' will be the center of attention with readings, floortalks and artist demonstrations to accompany the exhibition of Maori and International Indigenous Art.

Toi Maori will also be presenting a programme of events during the AK05 Auckland Festival during February - March, alongside 'The Eternal Thread - Te Aho Mutunga Kore' exhibition of traditional and contemporary weaving at Auckland War Memorial Museum before it tours to North America. The 'Waharoa' exhibition at the Rotorua Festival of Arts (Feb-March) will be installed at the Rotorua Convention Centre, and an exhibition and ta moko demonstrations will be held at Te Matatini Festival at the end of February in Palmerston North.
http://www.maoriart.org.nz/events

http://www.maoriart.org.nz/
And finally - opening at Pataka Museum next week on December 11, Sandy Adsett will be having his first solo exhibition to be held in the Wellington region. All this and more can be found on our website, with new information being updated daily.
http://www.maoriart.org.nz

________________________________________________________________________

20.20
NEW FOOTNOTES

Footnote Dance has much pleasure in announcing two new appointments to our management team working to coordinate the work of Footnote Dance throughout the country as a national company developing and presenting new New Zealand contemporary dance works to audiences all around the country. Welcome to Carey McDonald as Manager for Footnote Dance and to Nina Baeyertz who joins as Artistic Coordinator working to support the activities and projects undertaken by the company under the direction of Deirdre Tarrant.

Carey has a diverse background, covering performance, composition and direction in Music and Theatre, performing arts teaching at all age levels as well as production work for corporate videos, conferences and events – in New Zealand as well as the U.K.

She is currently teaching Dance and Drama at Wellington East Girls’ College, and also working as an announcer on Concert FM.
Nina has danced since she was young and travelled extensively. She has recently returned to Wellington and has been working for Footnote in administration for the past two months.

2005 is well advanced in planning with Choreolab 2005 (Jan 24-Feb 10th) starting the year and a full national tour programme in place that sees the company taking contemporary dance from Warkworth to Winton! Festivals confirmed for the year include Wellington Fringe in February (Perforum Thursday Feb 17th), a world premiere of Outside the Square at Capital E’s Youth Festival (March 16-19), Gisborne Arts Festival (17-20 April), the Wanaka Festival of Colours (26-30 April), Hawkes Bay opening of the new Opera House in Hastings (14-16 August) and Tauranga’s Arts Festival (Oct 22nd). Alongside these performances a national tour is also planned to include Auckland (Aotea Centre June 12-14), Wellington (Soundings Theatre, Te Papa, August 18-22) and Christchurch (James Hay Theatre August 26-27).

Current holder of the prestigious Guggenheim Award for Choreography, Jeremy Nelson is coming to New Zealand from New York and with the support of the USA Embassy to be the guest tutor/masterclass teacher for Choreolab. New choreographies confirmed so far for the company will be made by Raewyn Hill, Moss Patterson, Geordan Wilcox (RNZB) and Deirdre Tarrant. Erynne Gleeson, Debbie Fulford, Halina Wolynciewicz, Hannah Stannard and Lance Riley all return as company dancers.

_______________________________________________________________________

20.21
PROP ME UP

Propaganda Posters Exhibition at the National Library
10 December 2004 - 20 March 2005
Towards the Precipice
A new exhibition opening at the National Library Gallery next week brings together a remarkable selection of propaganda posters from the period 1935 to 1942.
Towards the Precipice: propaganda posters collected by WB Sutch features a selection of Spanish, German, British and Soviet posters that illustrate some of the crucial events and activities going on as Europe headed towards all-out war. The exhibition includes the personal papers of WB Sutch, along with books, pamphlets and photographs from the Turnbull Library collections.

The Spanish posters represent the voice of Republican opposition to the right wing Nationalist forces of General Franco in the Spanish Civil War of 1936-39, with rousing calls to arms like 'No Pasaran, Pasaremos - They shall not pass, We shall overcome'.

The selection of German posters focused on their use by the Nazi regime to win ordinary Germans over to their worldview by showing them, and the world, the promised material advantages of belonging to Hitler's Germany, particularly on the various arms of the 'Strength through Joy' movement.
The British posters cover the early years of the Second World War and build upon the generally accepted idea that the war was both just and necessary to defend traditional British values. Included in the show are two of the British government's early attempts to win over the British public - 'Your courage, Your cheerfulness, Your Resolution' and 'Freedom is in peril'. These posters are notorious for their absolute failure, the criticism directed towards them being that they perpetuated class differences.

Finally, the Soviet posters were designed following 'Operation Barbarossa', the German invasion of the Soviet Union in 1941. They were later adapted by the British to reinforce the resulting Anglo-Soviet alliance against Hitler.
The exhibition also tells of some of WB Sutch's experiences in Europe from his initial travels in his early 20s to his overseas visits with Walter Nash for the New Zealand government in the late 1930s.
Towards the Precipice will be on show at the National Library Gallery from 10 December 2004 until 20 March 2005.

_______________________________________________________________________

20.22
SCRIBE OF THE MAGPIES

Denis Glover Exhibition at the National Library
10 December 2004 - 20 March 2005

The National Library Gallery has a programme of presenting exhibitions on New Zealand writers, and the next subject is the illustrious and infamous poet Denis Glover (1912-1980). A larger than life personality with prodigious talent, educated and articulate, an accomplished sailor with a University 'Blue' in boxing and a fondness for the bottle, he cut a rare figure.
Glover excelled as a publisher and founded the Caxton Press in Christchurch while at University. The modest 'Caxton Club', as it was initially known, went on to become the chief publisher of an emerging New Zealand literature. Fellow Cantabrian and writer Anton Vogt stated, 'The man who made and ran the Caxton Press before the State Literary Fund existed is the undisputed god-father of new New Zealand writing,' and 'he likes to play buffoon and tough, but he is a serious, gentle man. Indeed, God help him, he is a gentleman.'
During World War II in England Glover came to know many of the leading literary lights, and his work was included in the prestigious journal Penguin New Writing along with luminaries like of Jean-Paul Sartre and Laurie Lee. Glover's talent and exacting standards as a printer and typographer were also appreciated by this circle. In the late 1940s the London editor and publisher, John Lehmann, sought Glover out to have two books printed at Caxton Press.
As well as drawing on the Turnbull Library collections, the exhibition also presents items from private collections. One of the remarkable documents to have survived has been lent for the exhibition - Glover's official 'Top-Secret' instructions for the invasion of Normandy on D-Day, which should have by rights been returned to the Navy. His Commanding Officer later wrote: 'The most outstanding personality among them was the New Zealander Lieutenant Denis Glover DSC, RNZNVR. [*] and I had picked him to take over as guide of the fleet if my craft should be put out of action.' Glover's irascible irreverence had him playing hunting songs from a gramophone over a loud hailer as he landed his troops on the beach amidst heavy fire. Yet he then went on to save the crew of two other craft that were in significant difficulty. For this he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross (DSC).
Denis Glover would not suffer fools gladly. The exhibition includes quotes from many of his unpublished letters which make lively and pointed reading. For example, he addresses a letter to the Readers Digest, which seems to have ignored his request to be removed from their address list, 'Persistently intolerable people'. A letter of advice to a literary hopeful is extraordinary in its blunt yet courteous criticism.
And of course he is the author of New Zealand's iconic poem, 'The Magpies,' with its unforgettable 'And Quardle oodle ardle wardle doodle / The magpies said.' The exhibition presents a man who is talented, vociferous, boisterous and brave.

_____________________________________________________________________

20.23
I LIKE TO WATCH

Fame & Comedy on Frontseat, 11.00pm this Sunday 5th December
The Tragedy of TV Comedy: Jeremy Hansen discusses the long search for a top-rate NZ television comedy with Australian laugh legend Rob Sitch (Frontline, The Castle, The Dish), Jemaine Clement, Te Radar, Paul Horan, NZ On Air's Jo Tyndall and more. And Frontseat host Oliver Driver debates what's funny and how to get it on screen with TVNZ's Tony Holden and Scott Blanks from the Classic Comedy Bar.
Baby Remember My Name: With the impending birth of her first child, Frontseat reporter and former Aaria singer Amomai Pihama seeks out schools that encourage the performing arts, from the private Corelli School to Selwyn College in Auckland and Hagley High School in Christchurch.
Ballet Bites: The ever-popular choreographer and costume-maker Paul Jenden and co-star Louis Solino are preparing their next season of dance comedy at the Court 2 Theatre in Christchurch. It's a mad-cap journey through the history of dance from ballet to ballroom to, ah, the New Zealand contemporary dance scene.
Plus: Watch to find out how to win 'Phaic Tan - Sunstroke on a Shoestring', the new travel satire from Rob Sitch's Jetlag Travel, and 'Downstage Upfront' - a history of Downstage Theatre's first 40 years by John Smythe.

http://frontseat.co.nz/

_____________________________________________________________________

20.24
BIGGER THAN TEXAS

First NZ acts announced for South by Southwest 2005
The first part of the NZ contingent to next year's South by Southwest conference in Austin, Texas, has been announced. Invited to perform at SXSW 05 in March next year are:
* The Coolies
* The Have
* The Mint Chicks
They will join the 1100 artists that SXSW 05 will host over five days in concert at 50 venues between March 16th and 20th.
These initial artists were some of the first wave which got their submissions in early and complete with recordings and support material such as bios and media. Other artists whose submissions arrived toward the October 30 deadline are still in evaluation.
Other artists invited to perform will be announced in the coming weeks.

Mosey on down to
http://2005.sxsw.com/

________________________________________________________________________

20.25
LASTING MOMENTS
THE LAST MOMENT: RECENT WELLINGTON VIDEO ART
Now to 16 January 2005
Wellington City Gallery’s Hirschfeld Gallery

That Last Moment brings together four recent video-works by five Wellington-based artists: Kaleb Bennett, Damon Meade, Johanna Sanders and Bek Coogan, and VJ Rex. Each of these artists has drawn on the rich tradition of cinematic history in the creation of their works; at times playing homage, at other times parodying the genres of science-fiction, b-grade horror and the grand old Western.

Kaleb Bennett was born in Hamilton in 1976. His work was included in the 2004 Trust Waikato Contemporary Art Award exhibition and has been exhibited in various locations around Wellington in galleries including Enjoy Public Art Gallery and in the art projects Interventions, House/Layered and The Ouse Project. He currently works in Wellington and lives in Melrose.
Bek Coogan was born in Palmerston North in 1972. She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Quay School of Fine Arts, Wanganui Polytechnic, and has recently completed her Masters in Fine Arts at Massey University, Wellington. She lives and works in Wellington.
Damon Meade was born in Gisbourne in 1979. He has just completed his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree at the School of Fine Arts, Massey University Wellington. Meade’s work has been included in the exhibitions in Wellington and Gisbourne including Simmer: a painting show at a temporary venue in Wellington and as part of the cupcup exhibition (collaboration with Thomas Bayrle) at The Dowse, Lower Hutt. Meade lives in Wellington and Gisbourne.
Johanna Sanders was born in 1970 in Sydney, Australia. She is currently completing a Masters in Fine Arts at Massey University, Wellington. Sanders’ had an exhibition portal4 at Enjoy Public Art Gallery, Wellington and her work Rear Window Projection was included in the 2004 Wellington Fringe Festival. She works in Wellington and lives in Lyall Bay.
VJ Rex was born in Otahuhu in 1969. He graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Canterbury in 1991 and has a Master of Fine Arts from RMIT, Melbourne in 1998. VJ Rex has exhibited widely throughout New Zealand including City Gallery Wellington’s Telecom Prospect 2004, Whare at SoFA Gallery, Christchurch and Techno Maori: Maori Art in the Digital Age at City Gallery Wellington and Pataka Museum of Arts and Cultures in 2001.

http://www.citygallery.org.nz/mainsite/HirschfeldGallery1.html

______________________________________________________________________

20.26
MAX GIMBLETT: THE BRUSH OF ALL THINGS
12 December 2004 - 6 March 2005
Wellington City Gallery
Although he has lived in New York for the past three decades, expatriate artist Max Gimblett has a strong commitment to maintaining and developing his connection with New Zealand. Since leaving, Gimblett has continued to exhibit regularly in New Zealand and returns to paint here; he is recognised as an important figure in the development of abstract painting in New Zealand, and his work is held in numerous private and public collections throughout the country.
Max Gimblett – The Brush of All Things is the first public gallery survey show of Gimblett’s work to be shown in New Zealand. Curated by independent curator and art historian Dr Wystan Curnow, the exhibition draws upon the past 25 years of the artist’s practice, representing all the main strands of his prolific practice. Combining new work with older work, and work from New Zealand collections with work from international collections and the artist’s studio, this exhibition will demonstrate the impressive range of this important expatriate artist, emphasising his place as one of our leading abstract painters.
Exhibition initiated and toured by the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o T?maki.
http://www.citygallery.org.nz/mainsite/MaxGimblettTheBrushOfAllThings.html

_____________________________________________________________________

20.27

CREATIVE SWITCHEROO

HAMES LEVACK are giving away their London Mayfair offices for three months of next year and are looking to give everyone in the world the chance to be the ones that get them. The idea is part of our latest project 'The Exchange', which will see the directors of HAMES LEVACK swap places with complete strangers from somewhere around the world. Whoever ends up coming to London will have three months and all the resources of HAMES LEVACK to put on an exhibition on whatever they want in whichever way they want to do it.

In order to give the world a chance we are spreading the word to every single country and we would appreciate it if you could help us by letting anyone in New Zealand who you think will be interested know about the project.

Would you be able to pass on information about the Exchange to people who you think would be interested and/or post information about it on your website? The deadline is the end of the month so there is not much time left.

See the website to get a better idea about the type of people we are looking for and to read the application form www.hameslevack.com/exchange.

_______________________________________________________________

20.28
LOST WETA, FOUND ARTIST

Artist Exhiled on Matiu/Somes Island

Wellington artist Kristelle Plimmer will be able to indulge in her passion for weta after winning a week-long residency on Matiu/Somes Island.

Weta cast in silver dancing on a dead possum was the creation which won her most public acclaim at the Global Eye exhibition, run by the Department of Conservation in Wellington during Conservation Week. It featured the work of 11 Wellington artists from varying ethnicities who presented their thoughts and feelings on conservation and the environment in an alternative form. Purveyors of the works chose their favourite piece with the winning artist treated to a week-long, expenses-paid artist-in-residence stay on Matiu/Somes Island…where introduced weta have their own (tree) motel.

Wellington tree weta and giant Cook Strait giant weta were introduced to the island as part of a long-term plan to restore the island habitat. During her stay on the island, from December 6 to 13, Kristelle will have the chance to get the chance to meet Victoria University entomologist George Gibbs and learn more about the “fascinating creatures” which she has immortalised in metal. Kristelle’s workshop will also be open during the week, enabling the public to see her at work. Work resulting from the residency will be exhibited during Conservation Week 2005.

Department of Conservation community relations programme manager Dairne Poole says Matiu/Somes Island, with its colourful past, fascinating flora and fauna and spectacular 360 degree views, is the perfect place to inspire creativity.

“Reminders of the island’s past as an internee camp, quarantine station and defence post remain and it is these, along with the flora, fauna and perspective that the island offers, that will inspire Kristelle during her stay.”

She hoped it there would be future artist in residence opportunities on the island.

“Conservation needs to be accessible to all. Through making it accessible, greater conservation and environmental outcomes can be achieved for both the environment and the people of Aotearoa/New Zealand.”

Kristelle says she plans to spend her time on the island “looking and thinking, sketching, making some jewellery, soaking up the atmosphere, absorbing the place as much as possible and getting close to the weta.”

“I love them. They’re are so cute… and ancient.”

She hopes that visitors to the island will take time to call in on her during her stay there.

“I’m planning on displaying jewellery made on the spot, exclusive to the island.”


Artist – in – Residence: Kristelle Plimmer

Matiu Somes Island from

December 6th – December 13th 2004

Studio Open: 10.30am to 2.30pm, Wednesday to Friday, and 10.30am to 4.00pm on Saturday

Exclusive Matiu Somes Island jewellery will be under construction:
Call in and say hello.

Follow the signs from the wharf

_____________________________________________________________________

20.29
CARVED UP

Wellington’s Soft as Stone Symposium has come about for a number of reasons, one being we are keeping the tradition alive of having a big stone carving event on the Wellington waterfront.

Tarietanga, the Wellington stone symposium, which is no longer being held, was an integral part of Wellington's artistic and cultural life. Soft as stone will fill this summer artistic niche and continue to do so over coming years.

Many people visited Tarietanga over the period it was going, our symposium will capitalise on the knowledge Wellingtonians have that it is nearly stone symposium time again. We will add to this by bringing the symposium a step closer to Civic Square, the hub of Wellington’s artistic, cultural and administrative area. This will be of value to all those people who at lunch time walk down to see the unfolding of the sculptures. The visitors to the city who may spend longer interacting with the artists. Also to give the art buying public of Wellington the opportunity to interact with, and purchase pieces from national and international artists. As well as this access, the symposium is a good vehicle for artistic exchange and growth for artists.it is an vent that has appeal to many different people, and promotes a very New Zealand art form - Oamaru stone carving.

We already have interest from national and
international sculptors. This will be a stand out
event in Wellingtons summer cultural calendar for 2005
and many summers to come.

Hope to see you there,
Aaron Frater
afraternz@yahoo.com

___________________________________________________________

20.30
WHAT A SMASH

A $600,000 sequel to last year’s successful pilot of a Smash Palace Collaboration Fund will give more New Zealand artists and scientists the opportunity to work together on projects that bring their two disciplines together.

The Smash Palace Fund, the result of a partnership between the Ministry of Research, Science and Technology (MoRST) and Creative New Zealand, was announced at Futurability, a workshop looking at the future of skills development for research, science and technology, hosted by MoRST on 1 November.

Building connections across different disciplines is seen by the Government as an important part of fostering New Zealand’s innovative and dynamic culture.

“Connections, collisions and other surprises can happen when science and art meet,” said Chief Executive of Creative New Zealand, Elizabeth Kerr.

Creative New Zealand will manage the fund on behalf of MoRST.

“Innovation thrives in a climate that supports risk-taking, encourages true experimentation and allows for the possibility of failure – or magnificent success! That’s what Smash Palace provides,” said Dr Helen Anderson, MoRST Chief Executive.

The Smash Palace collaboration between MoRST and Creative New Zealand was recently recognised as a leading initiative in the public sector, winning the State Sector Category at the 2004 BearingPoint Innovation Awards. Last year’s pilot fund supported three projects, which involved a virtual reality children’s picture book, a web-based performance venue and a work portraying social and environmental interconnections in the Motueka River catchment. Applications for this year’s fund close on 18 February 2005. For application details please contact John McDavitt, Creative New Zealand, 04 498 0736.

The term “Smash Palace” refers to the panelbeater’s shop in the New Zealand film of the same name. MoRST and Creative New Zealand chose the title because they wanted to convey the fact that both artists and scientists are passionate people, who bring their own dreams and expectations to the collaborative process. This process can involve creative collisions that ignite ideas to achieve extraordinary and unexpected results.

Funding for the extension to the collaboration fund was provided through the Growth and Innovation Framework component of the Government’s Budget, announced in May this year.

For application details contact John McDavitt
Email: johnmcd@creativenz.govt.nz

____________________________________________________________________

20.31
CUBA FLOTATION DEVICE

We are now calling for submissions for parade floats for the 2005 Cuba St Carnival Parade. The Parade is taking place on Saturday February 26th at 8.30pm.

We are seeking awe-inspiring creative pieces of art to send down the street to wow our audience!

The Cuba St Carnival is one of the creative highlights of Wellington's social calendar. A showcase for local musicians and artists, with a strong Latin theme, the 2005 Carnival will be an opportunity to revel in the street. The 04 Parade was a great hit, with a wide range of diverse and fascinating entries. The 05 Parade will be bigger and brighter with a greater emphasis on the creative components of the entries.

The theme for this year’s parade is ‘The Body Electric’

This theme is an expression of dynamic movement, a celebration of the body, dance, impulse, momentum, percussion, spontaneity, magnetism, a fusion of the body and technology.

And, as a way of acknowledging the energy and effort put in by all parade entrants, the 2005 Parade will be judged in three categories by celebrity judges, and the winners will receive highly coveted prizes. This is the first year that competition has been introduced into the Parade.

Larissa Marno
Parade Supremo
Cuba St Carnival Parade 2005

Mob: 021 480 140
Fax: 04 473 8873
parade@cubacarnival.org.nz

_______________________________________________________________

20.32
XMAS X-MAZE

The Hunt for Christmas at Capital E!
You can get lost in Christmas with a visit to an amazing new interactive maze of Christmas fun at Capital E.
Using the special Xmaze clue pack, visitors are invited to have fun finding their way through this interactive maze, featuring a wish-tree forest, hall of mirrors, and glistening passages leading to art areas. There are fun activities for children including decorating cards, dress ups and making a glow-in-the-dark Christmas montage. The maze has been designed for Capital E by Wellington designers Debz Ruffel and Aaron Frater.
$2 per person.
Capital E, Civic Square, Wellington
http://www.cape.org.nz/whats_on/exhibitions_events/Xmaze.htm

_________________________________________________________________

20.33
TLC ONLINE

The Learning Connexion’s regular newsletter is on-line at

http://www.tlc.ac.nz/newsletters/index.html

Check it out for new, opportunities, cultural commentary, and creative dialogue.

____________________________________________________________

20.34
AFFORDABLE ART UPDATE

The paint pots have been put away and the walls have been washed down. Time has flown by quickly and the New Year is knocking on our doorstep.
There were many success stories from our August show as we saw galleries scouting out new talent, artists selling work for their very first time and artists selling their entire work on exhibition. There were also many first time buyers and the hungry appetites of the art enthusiast got the ball rolling.
For a show enduring for only 3 days, this was amazing. We sold close to a quarter of the work that was showcased, which valued to nearly $400,000. We can confidently say that this was a complete success for artists, and it has made us all the more enthusiastic to make the next one a bigger success for artists and the Trust alike.
The Events Centre transformed itself from a sports centre to a busy, classy creative space. So much colour, so much talent, so many faces with expressions of wonder – all under one roof, all there for one reason – to support and appreciate the talent of New Zealand artists. People from all walks of life were able to embrace the talent and word spread far and wide. Over 5800 people attended the show and art was walking out the door, with over 800 pieces sold.
A big thank you to everyone that helped out and volunteered their time to support this initiative to help new and emerging artists in New Zealand.
Our sincerest appreciation to our funders and sponsors: Wellington City Council, The Community Trust of Wellington, Pub Charity, ASB, The NZ Community Trust and Unison Trust.
2005 New Zealand Affordable Art Show
The dates have been set for the 2nd New Zealand Affordable Art Show:
July 22nd , 23rd, 24th 2005
Gala Evening - July 21st 2005

http://www.affordableart.co.nz/

_______________________________________________________________

20.35
THE NO.8 WIRE: PAST AND PRESENT

Archives of the No. 8 Wire are on-line at
www.arts.blogspot.com

______________________________________________________________

20.36
CONTACT THE NO.8 WIRE

To be removed from this email list…

To be added…

To submit contents, events, opportunities, or comments to contribute to…

Please send word to arts@wcc.govt.nz

Furthermore, send comments, questions, requests, etc to

Eric Vaughn Holowacz
Community Arts Co-ordinator
Wellington City Council / Wellington Arts Centre
P. O. Box 2199
Wellington, New Zealand
Arts@wcc.govt.nz

_____________________________________________________________

20.37
PROSPERO’S PROJECT

And pardon'd the deceiver, dwell
In this bare island by your spell;
But release me from my bands
With the help of your good hands:
Gentle breath of yours my sails
Must fill, or else my project fails,
Which was to please. Now I want
Spirits to enforce, art to enchant,
And my ending is despair,
Unless I be relieved by prayer,
Which pierces so that it assaults
Mercy itself and frees all faults.
As you from crimes would pardon'd be,
Let your indulgence set me free.