Minister Paul Goldsmith is making major leadership changes within his Arts portfolios.

“I am also pleased to announce Kent Gardner as the new Chair of Creative New Zealand." Arts Minister Paul Goldsmith says.

“Kent brings with him a wealth of governance experience through previous roles as Chair of Jasper and as a member of the Te Papa Foundation.

“He was also formerly a patron of the Royal Academy of Arts, Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and The Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre in the United Kingdom.”

A Personal Message from Arts Foundation Te Tumu Toi Co-Chair Kent Gardner

In a personal message sent today, to the Arts Foundation Te Tumu Toi community, of which Kent is currently Co-Chair, with Chelsea Winstanley, Kent said:

"I am extremely proud of everything The Arts Foundation Te Tumu Toi has achieved to date, with more than $25 million going to artists through our awards; Laureate, Icon Whakamana Hiranga, and Springboard. Of course, there’s the ongoing success of Boosted, which continues to support artists and creatives from all parts of our communities. Whether you are part of Kotahi, Boosted, one of our alumni, or an arts lover – we appreciate your support.

Minister Paul Goldsmith announced today that I have been appointed the Chair of Creative New Zealand, a role I am proud to take on and look forward to. Having been involved in The Arts Foundation Te Tumu Toi for over five years, and most recently as Co-Chair, I have been deeply impacted by the organisation, the artists, the patrons, and the power of the arts to change society. This learning experience continually opens my eyes and heart to the power of arts and creativity to bring people together.

As well as being a passionate supporter of the arts, I take with me my experience in governance and business, and I am hopeful I can make a difference across another part of the arts funding landscape.

I will continue to Co-Chair The Arts Foundation Te Tumu Toi with Chelsea Winstanley until the end of 2024 to ensure an orderly transition.

Thank you once again for your support, generosity, kindness, and our joint commitment to backing the arts.

Images

  1. The Arts Foundation Te Tumu Toi Co-Chair Kent Gardner. Image courtesy of The Arts Foundation.
  2. The Arts Foundation Te Tumu Toi Co-Chair Kent Gardner, Kaiwhakahaere / General Manager Jessica Palalagi, and Co-Chair Chelsea Winstanley. Image courtesy of The Arts Foundation.