Arts diary of the week

Looking to spruce up your cold evenings with some art and culture? At TWN, we’ve rounded up the best of the city’s offerings that you won’t find anywhere else.

Echo @ Melanie Rogers Gallery

Wednesday, 21^st May – 14^th June, FREE

One of Karangahape’s premiere galleries opened their new exhibition last week. Echo features new and recent work by Kirstin Carlin, Veronica Herber (AUT graduate!), Rebecca Wallis and Emily Wolfe. Pop in anytime until the 14^th of June.

RAW @ Bergman Gallery

3rd May – 21^st June, FREE

Andy Leleisi’uao and James Robinson have collaborated to create RAW, an exhibition that aims “to make sense of fracture, pressure, and psychic residue in contemporary life.”  It’s the artists’ first time collaborating, and Leleisi’uao is one of our most impressive Pacific artists in Aotearoa. Fun fact: He’s also an AUT graduate, receiving the first ever Pasifika Scholarship in 2000.

Thursday Date Night Tours @ Artspace Aotearoa 

Thursday, 29nd May – Thursday 10^th July, FREE

As a part of Karanghape’s D8 Nights deals, Artspace Aotearoa is hosting guided tours of their current exhibition, Intimation of Endless Space Given in a Small Window of Time (approximately 10 minutes), every Thursday night. Book in between 5-6pm and get ready to engage with some art. Head to neighbouring restaurants with the D8 night sticker for dinner deals to end the night with!

Goblin Life Drawing with Summer Knight

Thursday, 29^th of May, 6:30-8pm, $20

“Expand your mind” and “exercise your third eye” with some life drawing this Thursday evening. Beginner friendly, with materials provided and set in moody Goblin Bar, it sounds like a great way to break up the drizzly week.

Opening Party @ Pici Wine Bar

Friday, 30^th of May, 5pm-late, FREE

After a mini-facelift, Tappo is back as Pici Wine Bar, the younger sister of the intimate pasta spot. DJ's will provide the tunes, Pici the snacks, and Fruit Cru the natural wines.

Road to Glasto @ Neck of the Woods

Friday, 30^th of May, 10pm-4am, $40-55

Next month, Pulotu Underworld is set to grace Glastonbury with the festival’s first ever curation of Māori and Pasifika DJs, dancers and musicians, but getting over their cost's money! Help make Aotearoa music history and support our local talent in getting over the ditch, and enjoy a showcase of our award-winning local artists.

Ka Mua Ka Muri Te Iho Auaha Live!

Saturday, 31^st of May, 6.30-9.30pm, FREE

Catch some tunes from local artists Idol Essence, TEMA, Romi Wrights, Joe Kaptein, and Bailey Wiley at this free gig at the Central City Library.  Free, and no booking needed – another great way to end out your NZ Music Month.

Weeaboo Weekend

Sunday, 1^st of June, 7.30pm-late, $20

For those into Tāmaki’s rising japanese-fashion, Harajuku-esque subculture (or for the curious) this all-ages event is for you. With three live music acts, DJs, and a dress-up/cosplay competition (with prizes!), it’ll be a fascinating, fun look into the movement

Auckland Skafest Winter Edition

Sunday, 1^st of June, 7pm-late, $20

Speaking of subcultures... Auckland’s Skafest is here for the winter season. They’re got a range across the genre – old school ska, punk rock, and roots reggae are all set to feature.

Storehouse - Mystery Shopper Rent Party

Saturday, 31^st of May, 7pm-late, $30

The sounds of R&B, gospel and blues will grace the upstairs of Grey Lynn’s RSC this Saturday. This month’s showcase features the acclaimed Tom Rodwell, alongide dummer Chris O’Connnor and bassist Count Bassy.