Deeper prize pool for award

Entries are open for the 2016 National Contemporary Art Award, judged by celebrated international artist and curator Misal Adnan Yildiz and managed by Waikato Museum.

Since 2000 the award has promoted and celebrated New Zealand’s contemporary artists. This year the first prize winner will receive $20,000.

Waikato Museum director Cherie Meecham welcomes the opening of the award which has continued to attract more entries and gallery visitors every year.

‘‘This award has documented New Zealand contemporary art for 17 years now and provides a platform for artists to show their work.

‘‘We’re very pleased to announce an increased prize pool this year but this award represents more than winning; the opportunity for our finalists to exhibit their work in a highprofile gallery for three months is not to be underestimated.’’

Originally from Turkey, Misal Adnan Yildiz is the director of ArtspaceNZ. The former artistic director of Kunstlerhaus Stuttgart has curated and collaborated on numerous art projects internationally and has held a significant number of solo exhibitions.

Entry to the National Contemporary Art Award is open until June 9.

The winner and merit award winners will be announced at the award ceremony on September 2 at Waikato Museum.

The award exhibition will be on show at Waikato Museum from September 3 until December 4.

Entry forms: waikatomuseum.co.nz