The 37th annual National Art Exhibition and Sale ("Art-X") kicks off with an Opening Gala on Friday, 22 June in the Pan Pac foyer of the Napier Municipal Theatre. The exhibition is then open to the public with free admission for the ensuing two weeks.
Art-X is truly national in scope bringing together artworks from over 60 artists from across New Zealand. This event is the primary fundraiser for the Rotary Club of Greenmeadows with all proceeds from the sale of art going back to the community. The Art-X Community Grant of up to $25,000, is awarded annually to a Hawkes Bay community organisation via a rigorous selection process and remaining funds are given out in smaller allotments. Recent recipients of the Art-X community grant are Youth Quest, The Leg-up Trust, Life Education Trust HB, Hohepa HB and the Greendale Swim Club. To date over $800,000 has been gifted to the community by the Rotary Club of Greenmeadows from Art-X proceeds.
Geoff Bennett, Chairman of Art-X mused "We are really pleased with the ongoing success of this event especially in light of recent competition from copy-cat fundraisers. I attribute this success to the amazing partnership with our sponsors, the outstanding quality of the art, the premier venue hosting the event and the incredible support from the community."