We caught up with Milly Hewat-Wall, Co-Director of Someday Studio, ahead of the Aotearoa Art Fair to talk all things Auckland – its underrated cultural scene, favourite dinner spots on Karangahape Road, and the must-see exhibitions happening around the city. From experimental artist-led spaces to world-class programming in public galleries, Milly shares why Tāmaki Makaurau deserves more recognition as a vibrant arts destination. Plus, her can’t-miss picks at the Fair, including emerging talent, textile art, and standout local painters.
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What makes Auckland stand out as a cultural destination?
I was born in Wellington and have always considered it the cultural hub of Aotearoa, but Auckland has got a really underrated cultural scene now. We’ve got some incredible galleries, small artist-run initiatives like mothermother through to well established galleries and public galleries –Auckland Art Gallery, but also Gus Fisher, and Te Uru Gallery – both have very impressive programming and recent exhibitions have been world class especially with the lack of funds to pull these shows together. Our theatre, music and performing arts offering is small, but innovative and quality. I’d honestly love to see Auckland lean into our cultural offering more. We’re great at getting behind sport, but I think we could be known just as much for our arts and culture. There’s so much talent and energy here – it deserves a bigger spotlight.
Image credit: Te Uru Gallery
After a day of exploring the Aotearoa Art Fair, where would you go for dinner and drinks to continue the evening?
I think Karangahape road is the best, most interesting dining area – I really love Bar Celeste on K Road, its a cool little neo french bistro with an incredible menu and great wine list. Pici is tiny and loud and fun and serves amazing pasta. Roses is gone now, and there’s something new coming by Ophelia, Karl and the team but wow they created something truly special. Kemuri Hi-Fi downtown is a very cool underground listening bar open-late. Queens Rooftop is a great place to go if you want great views of the city.
Image credit: Pici
What exhibitions coincide with the Aotearoa Art Fair that you recommend to someone visiting the city?
There are some very cool exhibitions on during the Fair – my top picks, Season has a solo show with Ayesha Green, Objectspace has a contemporary textiles show on – there are some really cool makers involved from all over the country. Te Uru Gallery will still have Photosynthesisers: Women and the lens still showing, part of the Auckland Arts Festival it features 40 women artists and collectives spanning 4 generations, as well as with Ron Te Kawa – textile artist, super vibrant and fresh. And if you’re into jewellery you must visit Fingers opposite the Auckland Art Gallery.
Image credit: Ayesha Green, Ruin on the Cascade. Season Aotearoa.
What are you looking forward to seeing at the Fair?
I have a growing list of must-sees at the Fair including – Horizons, a dedicated platform for emerging artists. Led by Becky Hemus of Art Paper/Art News Aotearoa, it will feature artist-curated booths showcasing the next gen in contemporary artists – fresh and experimental.
I’m looking forward to seeing new work by Francis Upritchard at Ivan Anthony, and also new paintings by Andrew Mcleod at Robert Heald, Jhana Millers is showing an immersive solo show by Emily Hartley-Skudder, and still on my wish list from last Fair, Hamish Coleman at Season Gallery alongside Ngaroma Riley who’s work I also love.
The list goes on!
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Milly Hewat-Wall is the Director of Someday Studio.
https://www.somedaystudios.co.nz