Publication launch

Questions for Venice: Publication Launch and Discussion

Date

Sunday, 29 November 2026

Time

11.00am – 12.00pm (NZT)

Venue

Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū

Corner Worcester Boulevard and Montreal Street

Christchurch Central & Inner City, Canterbury

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About this event

What happens when a group of emerging artists, writers and curators spend five days immersed in one of the world's most celebrated contemporary art exhibitions? Join Christina Barton, Luke Shaw and Lachlan Taylor in conversation with the Gallery's newly appointed curator, Simon Gennard, for a fascinating discussion about the importance of arts writing, publishing and the connections between Aotearoa New Zealand's creative community and the international art world. In May 2026, eight early-career artists, writers and curators travelled to Italy to participate in an intensive five-day workshop at the prestigious Venice Biennale, one of the world's longest-running and most influential contemporary art events. Guided by experienced curators Christina Barton and Hanahiva Rose, the group explored exhibitions, exchanged ideas and considered how New Zealand art is represented and understood on the global stage. Their experiences have since been brought together in Questions for Venice, a collaborative publication that captures the conversations, discoveries and reflections sparked by their time in Venice. More than a record of the workshop, the book also explores Aotearoa's history of participation in the Biennale, offering a valuable resource for artists, researchers and anyone interested in New Zealand's place in the international art landscape. Meet the speakers Christina Barton is a highly regarded art historian, writer, curator, editor and educator based in Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington. She has made a significant contribution to contemporary art scholarship and curatorial practice in Aotearoa. Luke Shaw is an artist and musician based in Ōtautahi Christchurch. He is currently completing a doctorate at the University of Canterbury's Ilam School of Fine Arts, where he also lectures in Graphic Design. Lachlan Taylor is an art historian and writer currently undertaking a PhD in Art History at the University of Texas at Austin. His research and writing contribute to wider conversations about contemporary art and its cultural contexts. The discussion will be hosted by Simon Gennard, the Gallery's newly appointed curator, bringing together perspectives from art history, creative practice and publishing. Together, the speakers will reflect on their experiences in Venice, the making of Questions for Venice and the role of writing in documenting, questioning and sharing contemporary art beyond national borders. An engaging event for artists, writers, students and anyone curious about contemporary art, international exhibitions and the ideas that connect Aotearoa's creative voices with the wider world. Event partners Presented in partnership with The Chartwell Trust, Ilam School of Fine Arts at the University of Canterbury, and the Office for Contemporary Art Aotearoa.

Cost

Free

Listing quality

Verified listing

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Added 9/11/2026 · Last checked 9/11/2026