We spoke to Simran Saseve-Dale, General Manager at My ART, about her tips for exploring Auckland. Simran has worked with galleries, arts organisations and artists for many years.
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What makes Auckland stand out as a cultural destination?
The diversity of our sector. We have artists, organisations, galleries and projects that represent everyone, all sharing stories unique to their own lived experience. We’re fortunate to have the opportunity to engage with such a diverse range of work, everywhere, every day.
If you have friends from out of town, what are you adding to their itinerary?
A trip to the Arts House Trust! Anita and her team have presented some fantastic exhibitions, drawing on the Trust’s extensive collection and showcasing new, engaging works. Alongside that, the building is beautiful, the Hill House café is brilliant and the grounds of Monte Cecilia Park are lovely to wander around.
Image: The Arts House Trust
After a day of exploring the Aotearoa Art Fair, where would you go for dinner and drinks to continue the evening?
Amano is always my favourite. Pasta, cocktails and a healthy dose of Verner Panton – what’s not to love!!
Image: Amano Auckland
Do you have a favourite public art installation or mural in the city? What makes it special?
Having grown up in Auckland, there are many public works that have become significant to me and remind me of different times in my life. Chris Booth’s Gateway has been a constant, anchoring work. I recall first seeing it as a child and later, passing it on my way to uni. Recently, I had the opportunity to work with Chris for Sculpture on the Gulf and really enjoyed getting to know him. Last week, my sons and I were on the way to the Art Gallery, when we passed the OG Chris Booth at the base of Albert Park. Their little minds were blown at the scale and wizardry of that work! All of a sudden, it took on a new significance for me, and will now remind me of a very special day out with my boys!
Image: Chris Booth
About My ART
My ART offers collectors interest-free loans to buy art from New Zealand and Australia’s leading galleries. My ART takes the hassle out of time payments and alleviates the financial pressures on all parties. My ART reduces the risks of long term lay-buys for galleries and artists and emboldens people to buy the work they really want. “All kinds of people are using My ART, from first time buyers to established collectors, who often use it to give them more time to pay off a large purchase.” The profits from My ART are returned to the community via charitable donations to art organisations around New Zealand Aotearoa.
Learn more about My ART myart.co.nz