The fifth annual Sculpture Festival at Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre features work by some of the country’s best artists; we talk to curator Koji Miyazaki about what to expect.

What is Sculpture Festival 2024?

In 2020, I was approached by The Arts Centre (in Christchurch), as they wanted to create an annual event to raise money for the ongoing earthquake repair programme of their buildings, and to educate people about art and craft; specifically sculpture and object art. An event that would include everyone, from children through to established art collectors.

Why are people so drawn to sculpture?

Because sculpture is three dimensional it is often something people can directly relate to – either through the object’s intended use or with an idea of how or where to display it. As with all art, these objects can make you feel something new, and appreciate the maker’s concept or the ideas they have chosen to share. Sometimes it is just the beauty of the form that draws a response. Other times it is a sense of connection: an emotional response, or a reminder of events or people from our past.

Buying a piece of sculpture is also something special. It isn’t an everyday purchase; it’s something unique, different than commercially mass-produced items.

What can people expect to see this year that is different from previous years?

Every year is different – which is why I keep coming back! Returning artists will have new ideas to express or engage with new colour or form. And there are always new artists to discover. We strive to have a mix: from emerging to established artists. Some are more widely known, collectible artists; while others are more conceptual in their approach, which means there is always something worth a look.

Do you have any hot tips for what not to miss this year?

The Great Hall is such a beautiful venue, and having this many pieces together is rare. If you love it, buy it now – you may never see it again. For the first time, The Arts Centre’s creative residents will be involved, so their works are a must-see.

This is also my last year curating as I am moving to back to Japan in November, so it will be the last time my work is part of the festival.

Any advice for those thinking about attending a workshop?

Go to The Arts Centre website and book early! These workshops are not an everyday event and this year they are focused on scratch-building, ceramics, and harakeke weaving. They’re a great opportunity to find out more about the various art forms, and to give it a go.

Sculpture Festival 2024

Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre, Christchurch

5–20 October

With a slightly different focus from other sculpture festivals: showcasing not only large-scale outdoor sculpture, but also domestic 3D object art and wearable sculpture in the form of jewellery – Sculpture Festival includes an exhibition of 250+ works for sale by 37 NZ artists, alongside a programme of creative workshops aimed to increase understanding of the various artforms involved.

artscentre.org.nz/whats-on/sculpture-festival-2024