Christchurch's The Year of the Arts ramps up

The local arts scene is getting a boost through the Year of the Arts (YOA) initiative.

Amongst the first to benefit is the Port Noise music festival, happening at various venues across Lyttelton on 11 March.

“It was great to be able to help the Port Noise team get off the ground. Lyttelton is a hive of music activity and Port Noise is an awesome addition to the social calendar,” says Christchurch City Council Manager of Events and Arts, Lucy Blackmore.

Ms Blackmore says the YOA initiative is about supporting local creativity, increasing audience participation, and attracting visitors to the region. 

“We are celebrating the innovative and unique creativity that has been born, raised and nurtured right here in Ōtautahi,” says Ms Blackmore.

“The last few years have been tough for creatives and event planners across the board. Year of the Arts will provide practical support to local creatives, with funding to commission works and events. Cross-promotional activities are also happening across the city’s arts organisations, with an events calendar available on the Toi Ōtautahi website.”

The YOA concept was developed by the Christchurch Arts Audience Development (CAAD) Trust and is being spearheaded by the Christchurch City Council under the city’s Arts Strategy, Toi Ōtautahi.

Funding has been provided by Ministry for Culture and Heritage, Creative NZ and Rātā Foundation.

“Residents and visitors to the city have a whole range of arts activities to choose from, including concerts, art and photography exhibitions, poetry and dance,” says Ms Blackmore.

“2023 is the year to get out and enjoy the Ōtautahi art scene.”

Any artists, event planners or creatives that are interested in getting involved in Year of the Arts can get in touch through the Council’s Toi Ōtautahi website.

Learn more about Year of the Arts.