art off the wall to adorn the body"
Suzie Moncrieff, Montana World of WearableArt Founder
In 1987 Suzie Moncrieff first took "art off the wall to adorn the body" as a promotion for her art gallery in rural Nelson. From there the concept blossomed and has developed into what is now the annual Montana World of WearableArt Awards Show. This iconic New Zealand art festival attracts audiences and designers from around the world and is a highlight of the New Zealand arts calendar.
The Montana World of WearableArt Awards Show is difficult to define, falling somewhere between an art exhibition and fashion show. It has been described as a montage of theatre, dance, colour, movement and art. However you define it, there is no question the Montana World of WearableArt Awards Show is a spectacular performance.
Over 300 entries from around the world are received annually, just over half of which are accepted. From here, a unique scripted show is developed, produced and staged, combining unique section categories into one distinctive two-hour theatrical showcase of incredible garments.
An estimated total audience of 30,000 will be treated to a record number of international entries this year, including designers from India, Thailand, Canada and the United Kingdom.
Although many participants are professional artists and designers, there is no requirement to hold an art qualification, or to have won acceptance in their field. This 'non-elitist' approach ensures an appeal to entrants from all walks of life.
Thanks to the uniqueness of this New Zealand art show, conventional perceptions about clothing and the body can be challenged. Materials normally foreign to fashion, such as bicycle tubes, plastic bottles and paper clips can be employed.
This year the show will feature seven sections, all with distinctly creative themes to inspire designers to their limits. Examples include the 'HP Children's Section: Dreams and Nightmares' and 'Scenic Circle Hotels Man Unleashed: Reinterpret the Suit'.
Held at the TSB Bank Arena (previously known as The Events Centre) on Wellington's Queen's Wharf, the two-hour show will be staged nine times during the 2007 season:
For further information about the Montana World of WearableArt Awards Show, please visit the official Web site.
Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, is a picturesque and cosmopolitan city situated at the southern end of New Zealand's North Island. This vibrant harbour-side city offers visitors a bountiful selection of trendy cafes and restaurants, boutique shops and diverse entertainment.
Along with being the political hub of New Zealand, Wellington is also regarded as New Zealand's arts and culture capital. It hosts an exciting array of fun-filled festivals throughout the year, and is home to the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, The New Zealand Royal Ballet and Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand.
Wellington has an international airport, and ferries connecting New Zealand's two main islands. The city is an ideal base for your exploration of New Zealand and there is an excellent selection of accommodation to suit all budgets.
You can view more information about Wellington accommodation options, as well as other Wellington attractions and activities.
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