World of WearableArt has been attracting entries from around the globe since 1987. Picture / Stephen A’Courtroom
Iconic design and vogue present World of WearableArt (WOW) has been offered to Kiwi funding firm STILL after some “immensely difficult” Covid years.
The possession will change arms for the primary time since 1987, when Dame Suzie Moncrief based the corporate.
The construction, staffing and day-to-day operations of WOW won’t change.
The awards present will even proceed to be hosted in Wellington, the place it has been since 2005, following a latest renewal settlement with WellingtonNZ.
Moncrief stated it was the suitable time to usher in new guardians who will proceed to foster the corporate’s growth and realisation of her inventive imaginative and prescient.
Moncrief’s sister, Heather Palmer, can be a co-owner of WOW.
“WOW for me has been an thrilling and fulfilling journey,” Moncrief stated.
“Heather and I’ve labored so arduous over the previous 35 years, generally in opposition to the chances. The Covid years have been immensely difficult and we realised it was time to step again, time for a reset for us and for WOW.
“I’ve all the time had huge goals for WOW.
“Proper from the beginning I noticed the present as spectacular, inspirational and awe inspiring. That imaginative and prescient is shared by the brand new house owners and I’ve each confidence that STILL’s aligned values, connections to the broader arts ecosystem and long run focus will allow WOW to thrive for generations to return.”
New Zealand-based STILL invests, develops and helps massive numbers of tasks that create change to reinforce artwork, tradition and neighborhood in Aotearoa.
Hideaki Fukutake, STILL founder and CEO, stated the corporate may be very conscious that the acquisition of WOW carries vital cultural duty.
“The World of WearableArt is a New Zealand treasure. We all know how vital WOW is to New Zealand and we’re obsessed with making certain it lasts effectively into the longer term,” he stated.
“For STILL that is about defending a inventive treasure for future generations of New Zealanders and making a long run contribution to creativity and tradition in Aotearoa New Zealand.”
STILL has investments in Kings Plant Barn, Seek the advice of Recruitment and infrastructure expertise firm Form Power.
Based in 1987, WOW is a number one worldwide design competitors in New Zealand, attracting entries from around the globe, culminating in a theatrical stage present.
However like many companies, WOW was pressured into the wilderness by Covid-19 pandemic restrictions.
“After two tough years having to cancel WOW exhibits, it was fantastic to see the resounding success of the WOW Awards Present this yr, we offered out and the audiences cherished it,” Moncrief stated.
She stated the 2023 competitors was now effectively below means with registrations flowing in.
Moncrief and Palmer will proceed their lively affiliation in ongoing roles as WOW Ambassadors, with Moncrief as resident choose and Palmer in a mentoring position.
Wellington mayor Tory Whanau stated WOW is on the coronary heart of Wellington’s vibrancy and creativity, and a big contributor to the native economic system.
“I’m delighted that this taonga is in protected arms, excited for what the longer term holds for WOW, and comforted to know that its future in Wellington is safe.”
