Editorial: Healthy climate for arts

You don't have to go far in Wanganui to find talent. The city has an abundance of creative people, and they are a busy bunch, too. It is rare to go for long without a new exhibition opening or a performance put on by one of the many talented groups.

Wanganui has forged a reputation as an arts centre of excellence, and with good reason. With formidable talent in glass art, UCOL's Quay School of arts and a public gallery that would be the envy of many larger centres, it is easy to see why so many choose to live and create here.

There is something in the atmosphere that fosters and nurtures creativity.

Perhaps that is why we have so many successful arts studios, which each year host an annual festival, the Whanganui Artists' Open Studios, which last year saw more than 50 studios welcome visitors, many from out of town, bringing significant financial stimulus to the economy.

There is also significant benefit from the increased profile Wanganui enjoys from these higher-profile events.

While we all get enjoyment from the artworks that line the river, the various repertory performances or recitals that are put on locally, the events that draw significant numbers of people to our city help boost the profile of Wanganui as a great place to visit with much to offer.

One such event is the New Zealand Opera School, hosted at Collegiate. Founded by Donald Trott, the intensive training programme started yesterday and runs until January 15.

It counts among its supporters some of the biggest names in the arts, and this year has gained sponsorship from the Kiri Te Kanawa Foundation.

The school routinely earns headlines and generates positive publicity for Wanganui.

Last year's flash mob opera at the River City Market garnered significant national media interest.

The event is also known to contribute a significant amount to the coffers of local businesses, bringing in an estimated $340,000 last year.

All too often the focus is on success achieved on the sporting field, or in business circles but now, more than ever, let us celebrate the fine artists among us. Those people who enrich our lives, generate positive publicity for our region and make Wanganui a better place to live by virtue of their very creativity.

Feedback: editor@wanganuichronicle.co.nz