Wanaka Arts Labour Weekend Exhibition - Opening Night

The 44th annual Wanaka Arts Labour Weekend Exhibition & Sale opens Thursday, 19th October 2023 with another festive evening devoted to the arts. Enjoy live music from jazz singer Carla Blue, as well as drinks and canapés, while getting a first look (and option to purchase) this year's fantastic works.

Come celebrate the excellence and creativity of the region's artists, with a diverse range of mediums on exhibit and for sale, including painting, photography, sculpture, woodwork, ceramic art, jewellery, fibre art, and more. Over 300 artworks will be available from nearly 150 artists from across New Zealand. Awards for the grand prize, runner-up, and others specially selected will be given on the night.

Special guests this year are John Walsh (artist in residence), Rachel Hirabayashi, and Neil Driver.

This year's working artists, who will be active on site Friday through Sunday, are art jeweller Anna Claire, abstract watercolourist Sophie Melville, weaver Enger Pelosi-Fear, painter and illustrator Agate Rubene, and ceramicist Essie Steven. 

Come for opening night and visit throughout the weekend. Watch the progress of the working artists, and find that perfect piece to take home.

Opening night tickets are $30 for general admission and $25 for exhibiting artists, and include drinks and nibbles; bring your ticket back Friday-Sunday for free entry to the exhibition floor (otherwise Friday-Sunday entry is $7 for general admission, free for exhibiting artists).