RAW Celebrates 15 Years Of Skill And Wonder In Local Art

From on-site installations and sculpture to fine arts photography, hand dyed silks and mosaic art, Raglan’s artwork is known to be both varied and accomplished. This Labour Weekend, art lovers across the country will be treated to the 15th instalment of the Raglan Arts Weekend, with arguably the most impressive portfolio of artists to date.

Over 65 artists will be exhibiting in 43 studios, including 5 groups and 12 new studios for this year. “We’re excited to welcome some really well established and credible artists into our fold, including well known site-responsive artist Amanda Watson, whose work is made in-situ and has international acclaim,” says Nicky Brzeska, RAW’s Co-Ordinator.

Work such as this really encourages visitors to understand the processes behind the creations, which is exactly at the core of RAW. “This year, you can watch Ben Grant’s wood-bending demo at Rangitahi, catch Simon Dickey’s intense live kinetic painting on Volcom Lane, participate in an all-ages large art community canvas with Yaniv Janson, or watch Theo Arraj’s beautiful outdoor public mural develop over the weekend, next to the museum,” says Nicky.

Nature lovers are in for a treat too with Jean Carbon’s silk installation in the redwoods, Karin Bettley’s beautiful ceramic sculpture in her garden, or the very popular Waikeri Sculpture Trail back again this year, to name a few.

“It’s like a massive Choose Your Own Adventure exploring our beautiful coastline and township, unearthing all this interesting and inspiring mahi,” says Nicky. “Just grab a Raglan Arts Guide which has a map and choose your own route. If you need some help deciding where to go, visit our web site or speak to our team at the Raglan Arts Centre,” she adds.

Over its 15 years, RAW has grown into one of the North Island’s most favourite self-guided art trails, held over Labour Weekend every October. It’s grown since its inception to now include:

• a three-week Preview Exhibition made possible by The Chartwell Trust and Meridian Energy.

The Hatch, an emerging artist incubator, enabled by Rangitahi and the Waikato District Creative Communities

• An ‘Artist Connect’ program including an opening ceremony at Iso Bistro-Cocktail Lounge and a RAW-artist bus tour, in partnership with Bayleys Real Estate in Raglan
• It’s also partnered with the Raglan Country and Blues Festival which will have various concerts and gigs throughout the weekend, meaning there is something for everyone in Raglan this Labour Weekend.

RAW Open Studio event: Sat 25-Mon 27 October 2025, studios open 10am to 5pm

www.raglanartsweekend.nz

© Scoop Media