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Grand plans are underway for the ninth annual Waipu Museum Art’nTartan Wearable Art Awards in the Celtic Barn this weekend.
This year, acclaimed theatre director and actor Stuart Devenie is the executive director for the show.
Stuart’s career spans almost four decades working on stage and screen. He has also taken on a variety of tutoring roles in theatres and colleges.
He says he is excited to be asked to direct the show.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity to work with such a dedicated group of local volunteers and artists who have built, over the past decade, such a high quality regional and national event,” he says.
“Art’nTartan has become Waipu’s taonga and, as such, must be treated with huge respect.”
Preliminary judging for the contest has already taken place, with more than 40 designers of wearable art vying for a share of $40,000 in prize money.
Organisers say complete freedom for artists this year has resulted in a dazzling array of wearable art that will thrill audiences.
The only stipulation artists must adhere to is that there must be some visible tartan in their design.
Local identity Dame Coira McWillie will MC the event and make sure things run smoothly on stage.
For many years, Dame Coira has been part of the large backstage crew involved in the production.
Stuart Devenie urged Coira to come out of retirement and share her talents on stage.
Performances are on July 19 at 8pm and Saturday 20 at 2pm and 8pm.
Tickets: eventfinda.co.nz
