With four sell out shows over the past two weekends, “rave reviews” and many works of art sold, organisers have declared the RenewArt community showcase a huge success.

Ninety-one performing artists and 21 visual artists from across the district have spent the past two months creating their visual and performing art for Queenstown and Wanaka locals to enjoy at the RenewArt 2020 events, which wrapped up in Wanaka on Saturday night.

More than 2,000 people attended the live shows and visual art installations at the Queenstown Events Centre (October 9-10) and the Lake Wanaka Centre (October 16-17). More than a third of the visual art pieces on display were sold over the four shows.

RenewArt was organised by the Three Lakes Cultural Trust, which facilitates the growth of local arts and culture.

“The performers and artists are over the moon,” Three Lakes Cultural Trust general manager Jo Brown said.

Group ‘Strings and Bows’ included some of the district’s littlest performers. PHOTO: Andy Woods

There was a big team behind the scenes bringing the event to life. It included: six stage staff five art installers, 12 tech crew, 100 volunteers (across 26 shifts), two curators and seven organisational staff.

Three Lakes Cultural Trust raised more than $180,000 during lockdown in an effort to support the cultural sector while unifying the community in the wake of COVID-19. Each artist received payment from the funding.

“As we all adjust to the new normal, unity is important,” Jo said. “RenewArt 2020 set about to unite and strengthen our artistic community while providing free events for the public to enjoy, be inspired by and connect with our local culture.”

‘The Butterfly Effect’, by Louise Parker and Debbie Townsend. PHOTO: James Allan

The remaining art works which have not yet sold will now move to Queenstown Contemporary, a gallery owned by Queenstown artist Marc Blake, from October 28 to November 4, and are available to view and purchase.

The RenewArt community events were supported by funding from the Hugo Charitable Trust, Three Lakes Cultural Trust, Central Lakes Trust, Community Trust South, Otago Community Trust and Creative New Zealand.