Auckland's creative scene is just one of Cleo Barnett's passions.
This Friday sees the inaugural Auckland Art Week get under way with more than 80 exhibitions and events taking place over 10 days. Co-ordinating the programme is New Zealand-born, Seattle-raised Cleo Barnett who returned to Auckland to study International Business and Political Studies. Her career has seen her work in
business consulting between the two countries, in particular those with a creative bent. "I love connecting people and building a network of like-minded creatives." One her greatest achievements here, has been establishing First Thursdays - a regular arts night on K Rd - and now she's spreading the "art love" with Auckland Art Week.
TEN FAVOURITE THINGS
1. Indulging in the local art scene
New to the Auckland art scene, I have been thoroughly enjoying visiting all the local galleries and art events in Auckland. This city has such a vibrant arts culture. It's just a matter of getting out there and discovering what it has to offer. Every night of the week there are different gallery openings, concerts and performances. Over the past year I have learned so much through starting First Thursdays and co-ordinating Art Week Auckland. It has really expanded my life in so many ways.
2. Karen Millen shoes
By far my favourite item in my wardrobe. Ridiculously too high, high heels in a bright emerald green. Makes me feel like I'm off to see the Wizard of Oz whenever I wear them.
3. Good food and wine
I love to cook. Hand-picking fresh ingredients from a local produce store and taking the time to prepare a meal for friends is a passion. Add the perfect wine to match and I'm happy.
4. Ocean's Beach
The beach is where you can find me on any given weekend. I have lived in New Zealand for almost four years, and I'm still constantly discovering new beaches. My favourite is Ocean Beach at Whangarei Heads. It's an incredible drive out to the beach, and there's great snorkelling and lots of nice bush walks. Swimming, sailing, scuba diving and fishing are what I love about summer.
5. My art collection
This year my boyfriend and I have started to invest in an art collection. My favourite is a gorgeous painting of Kate Moss done with acrylic and spray paint on wood by my sister, Kate Barnett. We also bought a collaboration piece from local artists Peap and Misery as well as a painting from Jordan Barnes, one of the first artists to take part in First Thursdays - it's a nice reminder of where it all started.
6. Collection of ticket stubs
Music makes the world go round. Over the past three years I have collected all the ticket stubs and backstage passes from the concerts I have gone to. My prized collections so far are my backstage passes to BDO and the Foo Fighters last year. My favourite venue is the Gorge Amphitheatre in Eastern Washington. One day I will make a big collage and frame them all.
7. Julianna Vezzetti designs
This chain ring was given to me by my Seattle friend Jules who is a super funky jewellery designer and musician. I love it because it is one-of-a-kind and a nice reminder of friends and family back home. See juliannavezzetti.blogspot.com.
8. Canon camera
I got my first professional Canon camera for my birthday and take it with me everywhere I go. I love taking pictures of interesting people, objects and all the awesome street art around the city.
9. Travelling
I recently spent three months in my hometown of Seattle, Washington this year. On this trip I was lucky enough to spend a week mountain-bike riding in Whistler and took a road trip down the California coast with my boyfriend. This summer I have planned a two-week trip around the South Island of New Zealand with my sister. I will never stop travelling the world and taking in the new sounds, sights and smells.
10. People watching
Sitting down at Verona, one of my favourite cafes on K Rd, people-watching and catching up with friends is my ideal way to spend an afternoon. With so many galleries, vintage shops, music venues, and funky cafes, K Rd attracts such a diverse crowd. It's a place that thrives on and truly celebrates individuality.