History, heritage and culture are brought to life at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki. Founded in 1888, it remains New Zealand’s largest visual arts experience and is a must visit if you're visiting the city centre at any time of the year. We asked Sarah about her career background as an art curator, her favourite current exhibitions at the gallery right now.
Tell us about your role and how you got there?
In my first year at university I decided I wanted to work as a contemporary art curator and, since then, I’ve worked in art galleries here in New Zealand and overseas. I’ve also taken time out to pursue further training in Amsterdam and last year I completed a PhD in Curatorial Practice at Monash University, Melbourne. I’m currently the Head of Curatorial and Exhibitions at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki. Before working here, I spent eight years in the curatorial team at Te Papa, with the last six years as Senior Curator Art.
What does a typical week at Auckland Art Gallery look like for you?
There is something different happening each week, so it’s hard to describe a typical week! I oversee the Gallery’s exhibitions, research, publishing and collection development programmes. Our department also runs the E H McCormick Research Library, which holds one of the country’s best collections of art books and art archives. I spend a lot of time working with my colleagues to prepare upcoming exhibitions. We are working on exhibitions up to two or three years in advance. Or we might have an artist visiting, a new publication to launch, or a new artwork coming into our collection.
What do you love about the city centre’s art scene?
One thing I love about living in Auckland is that it is home to so many contemporary New Zealand artists, designers, actors and musicians. Within walking distance of Auckland Art Gallery there are many great galleries – both public and commercial – with lively programmes.
What do you love about working in the city centre?
As someone who has recently moved to Auckland, I’m really enjoying exploring the city: it’s cafes, noodle bars and proximity to the harbour. There’s always something to see and do.