The Passion of Patrons

Throughout history, the arts have been sustained by patrons with a passion for creativity. In fact, some of the greatest art has resulted from private commissions - Leonardo da Vinci painted the Mona Lisa thanks to patronage. In New Zealand, arts philanthropy is now coming to life. In 1998 the Arts Foundation of New Zealand was founded by a group of committed arts patrons to enable New Zealanders to celebrate and support artistic excellence across all art forms- including, visual art, literature, music, dance, film, performance and more.

A Lasting Legacy

With support from the New Zealand Lottery Grants Board and private donors, the Foundation has established a permanent Endowment of $6 million, with more funds pledged via legacies. Income generated by the Endowment is used to fund Awards. By the end of 2007 the Foundation will have distributed almost $2 million to support New Zealand artists.

Artistic Achievement

The highest standards of artistic achievement are celebrated by the Arts Foundation. Biennially, the Foundation honours New Zealand's greatest living artists as Icons. Annually, five artists, whose careers are in full flight, receive $50,000 in recognition of achievements to date and as an investment in their future at the Laureate Awards. Biennially, in partnership with Freemasons New Zealand, the Foundation donates $25,000 each to five artists who are in the early stages of their careers and have proven excellence and significant potential at the New Generation Awards. The Foundation also recognises those that support the arts. Every year an individual, couple or trust is honoured with the Arts Foundation Award for Patronage and gifted $20,000 by the Foundation to distribute to artists or arts projects of their choosing. From time to time, the Foundation also honours an individual or an institution that has contributed in a significant way to the development and support of the arts through the Governors' Award.

From Generation to Generation

As an independent charitable trust, the Foundation works with the private sector to support the arts. For example, leaders in the arts community collaborate with the Foundation in the selection of Awards' recipients without the artists being aware they are under consideration. These selection processes enable the Foundation to identify artists that achieve the highest standards of excellence, demonstrating faith in their work to date and a trust in their future careers.

All New Zealanders have the opportunity to contribute to the work of the Foundation through donations and bequests. Your support will enable the Endowment to grow and provide assistance for artists now and for generations to come.