Papakura Art Gallery delivers a year-round programme of exhibitions and public programmes. The projects feature work by emerging and established local and national artists. The gallery provides opportunities for diverse local communities to engage with a range of creative and cultural experiences in a welcoming and supportive environment.
We are calling for creative projects from groups, collectives or individuals interested in exhibiting and/or creating unique projects, programmes, or events at the Arts Centre to be held during 2026 (January – December).
Papakura Art Gallery has limited financial resources and projects requiring funding should apply for grants through Auckland Council, CNZ or The Ministry of Culture and Heritage.
Project criteria
Preference is given to:
- Artists from the Papakura Local Board area and the wider Auckland region
- Projects exploring places, people, and themes relevant to the community where the gallery is located
- Projects supporting or aligning with one or more of the selected objectives in the Papakura Art Gallery Business Plan:
To deliver a dynamic range of arts and culture experiences that respond to and reflect the diverse communities of Papakura
To increase local young people’s access to and participation in the arts
To support the development of Māori arts and artists in Papakura and facilitate meaningful connections that encompass Te Ao Māori
To support and mentor local artists in the development of their professional practice and connect them to broader audiences, creative networks and opportunities
To develop strong local partnerships and to enable and support connections within the community
In addition, priority will be given to:
- Group projects
- Projects with strong public programmes or workshops
- Projects that represent and recognises te Tiriti of Waitangi. Auckland Council recognises te Tiriti o Waitangi/the Treaty of Waitangi as a foundational document on which local government in Auckland works to deliver Māori aspirations. We recognise that Auckland’s Māori identity is its unique point of difference in the world and celebrate Māori culture and te reo Māori.
- Applicants who whakapapa to any of the 19 iwi of Tāmaki Makaurau.
- Projects that align with key regional festivals and culturally significant celebrations. For example, but not limited to: Pride Festival, Matariki, World of Cultures, Auckland Diwali Festival
If your project recognises the Matariki season or any other significant date, please indicate this in your proposal.
Closing dates and notification of outcome
The call for proposals open on Monday 30 June 2025 and close on 28 July 2025.
The outcome of proposals will be notified by Friday 29 August 2025. If your proposal is successful, you will be invited to an initial meeting to discuss project scope, installation details, project dates, and marketing information. The overall budget, accompanying public programme and associated resources required will also be discussed at this time.