Patron of Mazda Emerging Artist Award Appointed

31st August 2004

James Wallace Appointed Patron of Mazda Emerging Artist Award

Respected art expert and collector, Aucklander James Wallace has accepted the position as Patron of the Mazda Emerging Artist Award.

Each year over $17,500 in cash prizes is available to 3rd and 4th year and post graduate art students around New Zealand who enter the Mazda Emerging Artist Award – the largest prize pool on offer to art students. The winner receives $10,000 cash from Mazda, while the students who are placed second and third will receive $5,000 and $2,500 respectively.

James Wallace says the decision to accept the role of Patron was driven by his desire to encourage and involve a younger audience with the arts.

“If younger people are not encouraged in art I believe it is a starvation of youth. I have been very impressed with what the Mazda Emerging Artist Award has achieved in the last two years and welcome the opportunity to be involved.”

Peter Aitken, managing director, Mazda New Zealand, says to have a patron with the calibre and standing as James Wallace is a very significant step forward. It truly signals the importance of the Mazda Emerging Artist Award on the arts scene in New Zealand.

“It also reinforces Mazda New Zealand’s on-going commitment to emerging talent in New Zealand. It is something we are passionate about supporting especially in the arts arena.”

ENDS

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