 |
Outstanding people sought for recognition
Arts Waikato are currently seeking nominations from organizations or individuals on behalf of outstanding people in our community who had made a significant contribution to the Arts and the Waikato region - for an annual recognition award. “There are many people in our region that give countless hours and share their artistic skills for the benefit of the community, often without any reward or recognition. These are our unsung heroes and we want to recognize their hard work and dedication”. Says Andy, Chief Executive of Arts Waikato. Nominations for the Outstanding Services to the Arts Awards close on the 19th August and forms can be downloaded from Arts Waikato’s website: http://www.artswaikato.org.nz/awards.html . The awards will be presented as a part of the Waikato Community Arts Awards to be held on Wednesday 5th October at Southwell School.
Last year’s award recipients were Rodger Gallagher and Yanny Split. Rodger is a resident of Raglan and is the current Chair of the Raglan Arts Council. He was the key driver behind the development of the Old School Arts Centre in Raglan, and put in countless hours to bringing this project to fruition. He was responsible for not only the fundraising, management and marketing of this project – he also happily rolls up his sleeves and does all the little jobs that need doing too. The building has now been beautifully restored and has achieved heritage status – a real legacy to the people of Raglan. Rodger has also done much to strengthen the Arts Council itself, its membership base and the programmes it offers. He is also a ‘film’ impresario and has also been responsible (with others) for the development of Raglan Film Festivals and local cinema showcasing NZ & local film makers and bringing contemporary and festival films to Raglan audiences. Rodgers vision and hard work over the last 6 or so years has enriched the lives of many and will continue to do so for many years into the future
Yanny is an award winning and NZ wide recognized fibre artist who is originally from the Netherlands, but has spent the last few decades in Huntly. It is fair to say that she has made a huge impact on this small community, and done much to lift its profile as an arts destination. Wherever there is fibre or wearable arts event happening, Yanny is not far away, She is either competing, judging or helping to organize the event. Yanny is passionate about her art and about sharing her very unique skills with others. She has organised night classes and a run a summer art school in Huntly for many years, and inspired many to explore their creativity. She has also worked with a wide range of groups and individuals to bring many fantastic creative events to Huntly and the Waikato, including wearable Arts, a Huntly Arts Trail and Waikato World (an art and craft show case).
Yanny is involved with numerous arts organisations and has chaired the Waikato District Creative Communities Committee and is a driving force within the Creative Fibres Guild. She was also a founding member of the Music and Arts Waikato Trust, having served on the board for 8 years.
Posted: Wed 06 Jul 2011
>News >Outstanding people sought for recognition