A rare glimpse behind-the-scenes of Wellington’s creative hub

Toi Pōneke Art Centre opens its doors for the public to go behind-the-scenes and discover the backbone of the local arts community for Wellington Open Day, Sunday 25 May, 11am–4pm.

For a gold coin donation, people will be able to meet the artists, see the studios or join a workshop; enrol in free Tango lessons in the dance studio; join a choir for a day with Community Music Junction – all abilities welcome; or take a yoga class.

Paora, Director of Toi Pōneke, believes the Art Centre adds to the cultural wellbeing of the city, “by nurturing emerging artists alongside established arts professionals. Toi Pōneke feeds into the wider cloak of Wellington’s creative fabric. The Open Day provides a great opportunity for the public to meet and view resident artists and arts organisations at work in their studios and offices.”

Funded by Wellington City Council, Toi Pōneke is home to 20 arts businesses and organisations and more than 40 independent studio artists across 50 studios and offices. Facilities include wifi, computers, private meeting rooms, dance and music studios, rehearsal spaces with kitchens and greenrooms scattered throughout.

As well as Toi Pōneke Gallery and its many studios, the centre also provides offices for Arts Access Aotearoa, Soundz New Zealand, Fishead, Workspace Studios, Fringe Festival, Dance Aotearoa and Shakespeare Globe Centre among others.

The buildings teem with visual artists, audio artists, directors, writers, dancers, creative businesses and arts organisations and offers a supportive environment for emerging artists through to artists with extensive CVs.

A day for art lovers, friends, families and kids, Toi Pōneke is great for all weathers and you can avoid the queues. Mention Toi Pōneke at the Laundry on Cuba and get yourself a discount.

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