Artifice: A Celebration of Fashion and Craft Culture in the Waikato is an exhibition being held in Hamilton from November 26 — December 3. The exhibition features over 70 artists from all over the Waikato, with a 37-strong contingent from Raglan.
The exhibition aims to promote the strong fashion and craft culture in the greater Waikato community.
The organisers/curators, Hilary Elliot and Tiffany Alderman, aim to turn the show into an annual event where artists and designers can work together to create a platform for showcasing their work to the public, and a social network for Waikato crafters.
The theme for this years show is ‘functional’, meaning every submission must be usable in every day life. The theme has encouraged a diverse range of entries, including sculpture, carving, men’s and women’s fashion, jewelry, toys, games, cobbling, knitting, crochet and much more.
The show has been made possible by a grant from the Creative Communities Scheme, which is run by the Hamilton City Arts Council. Organisers Hilary and Tiffany are grateful for the support and the opportunity to get involved with the Waikato fashion/craft community. “We hope by holding the show near Christmas that we can really push the ‘buy local’ ethic”.
Raglans involvement isn’t just limited to art. Locals Rick and Liz of Taunga Kereru will be serving up their pesto, dukkah and elderflower cordial at the opening night event. Meanwhile guests will be able to listen to live local music, including Marten Ten Broek, Felix, Karin Bettley, Dougal Greer and Lucy Cioffi, playing alongside other Waikato musicians.
You are all invited to the opening night event, to be held on Saturday November 26 from 6pm at 27 Collingwood St, Hamilton.
The event is free and family friendly, featuring a fashion show, drinks and nibbles, live music, great art and better company. The gallery is open from 10am thereafter until December 3. So come along, chances are you will know someone involved.
Hilary Elliot
