The art roads of Central Otago branch through silent tracks and hidden byways. The region attracts artists the way it draws visitors to its wild and spectacular scenery and stunning unspoiled wilderness. Here, you’ll find painters, sculptors, glass artists, ceramic artists and photographers, fabric and textile artists, woodcarvers and furniture makers, metal workers and jewellers. You will also find a wealth of performance artists in music, dance and theatre and the literary arts.
The Central Otago District Arts Trust
Founded in 2009, the Central Otago District Arts Trust (CODAT) is a regional non-profit organisation based in Central Otago that supports artists and the arts. They are committed to promoting the arts, cultivating emerging and established artists, and developing a diverse, creative community along with an on-line presence.
Two of their initiatives have been the creation of an Arts website with a directory of artists, events, newsletter, workshops. http://www.centralotagoarts.com. The second is the Central Otago Arts Trail which offers a unique and interesting artistic experience for both visitors and locals alike. Pick up an Arts Trail brochure and take time to personally meet our talented artists in their studios and visit their galleries and/or studios.
The Central Otago Art Society
The Central Otago Art Society (COAS) also plays a significant role in the arts in the region.The Society was established in Alexandra over 40 years ago and now has a widespread membership encompassing Central Otago and Otago/Southland. The Society fosters Art and Artists through exhibitions, workshops and a regular monthly tutored art class, open to all abilities.
Two exhibitions are also held each year, one in the Masonic Lodge, Clyde over Easter and the other in the Alexandra Community Centre during Blossom Festival in September.
GALLERIES: With many artists working in remote areas or from their homes, the Eade Gallery is able to represent many of these predominantly Central Otago artists in one space.