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Waipu Art in Motion’s return to the runway has been hailed a resounding success, with organisers confirming a sell-out show and strong community support.
The event raised $15,000 for the Northland Emergency Services Trust (NEST), a result organisers said was deeply rewarding after months of planning and hard work.
“We were delighted with the outcome – it made all the effort well worthwhile,” they said.
Planning is already underway for next year’s show, which will be held at the Coronation Hall on October 16 and 17. The deadline for entries will be July 31 and designers can register their interest now.
Several new and creative categories have been announced for next year.
Upcycle and Unruly will challenge designers to give discarded items a second life, showcasing sustainability through dramatic and inventive wearable art.
From the Workshop invites artists to transform materials from any workshop – including clay, fabric, metal, paper or wood – into engineered pieces, with styles ranging from polished and futuristic to gritty or steampunk.
Wear the Wonder encourages storytelling on the runway, drawing inspiration from Māori or other cultures, as well as personal, historical, legendary or imagined tales.
Organisers are keen to encourage new and young designers to enter, pointing to this year’s emerging talent as inspiration.
The Best of the Bunch award went to 15-year-old Kyla Mansell, who designed and made her own costume, while 12-year-old Charley Kate Brown won the Young Designer accolade with a costume created from beach rubbish.
Entry forms will be available soon via the Waipu Art in Motion Facebook page or by emailing waipuartinmotion@gmail.com. Artists can also register their intention to enter through Facebook or email.
“The show will follow a similar format to this year,” organisers said. “We’re excited to see what next year’s designers bring to the Waipu runway.”
