NZ Art Guild

The NZ Art Guild was initially formed in 2004 when a group of like-minded artists agreed it was long overdue to have a supportive community for New Zealand artists which also promoted the high quality of original New Zealand artwork. Not only was such a community lacking, but there needed to be one that suited today's modern, fast-paced and technological society. With artists so geographically spread throughout New Zealand, an online community was the perfect way they could unite in their love of art.

Since its formation, the NZ Art Guild and its members have continued to grow, adapt and mature. What initially started out primarily as a support network for kiwi artists has grown into an organisation that actively encourages, promotes and provides opportunities and resources for artists at all stages of their careers. The NZ Art Guild now also provides opportunities for the whole community to see numerous different artworks as well as a complete art management service for the corporate environment.

The NZ Art Guild is managed by Sophia Elise who is an Auckland based artist and founding member. She is supported in this role by a team of volunteers - Tanya Dann, Melissa Muirhead, Christine Dempster, Pam Buffery and Jen Longshaw. They are all artists and therefore understand the personal struggles and pitfalls that artists go through. They have worked together to create a resource which supports artists of all career stages. Between them they also have a wealth of knowledge and experience to help promote artists via the internet, coordinating exhibitions, art events etc.

As an organisation we are passionate about giving back to our community - most recently we doanted to the Mental Health Foundation of NZ and also gifted the use of the artwork "Reach Out" (created by 88 of our members) to promote Mental Health Awareness Week on posters etc. In February we are holding a Charity Art Auction, Exhibition and Head Shave to raise funds for the Leukaemia and Blood Foundation of NZ.