ENDORSEMENTS

The NZ Body Art Awards are proud to be supported by Richard Taylor, Creative Director of the world-famous Weta Workshop in Wellington (i.e. The Lord of the Rings & The Hobbit films productions). And also supported by World Bodypainting Association.

Please click here to view the official support document.

George Gair: Former North Shore City Mayor & Father to Joanne Gair, Writes:

Dear Mem,

I feel sure your enthusiasm and commitment to body art presentations, and the youthful team work you can build through it, and the artistic work which can be developed in the process, would have a very desirable influence on those in their middle teens who have artistic talent but don't know how to direct it or relate it to constructive and useful things. Instead they waste their energies on unwanted and inappropriate designs on buildings which are frequently seen for what they are, just graffiti.

I have been involved with the NZ Bodyart Awards as a sponsor and judge since the beginning in 2006, apart from 2010 when I was overseas.

I have  particularly enjoyed seeing the improvement in design and presentation from the New Zealand artists over the years. Young artists have been encouraged. Body painting has become  acceptable through a variety of events - Style Pacifica, the Taupo NZ Body painting Festival, the Lakehouse Art Festival, body painting around Auckland - all supported by the NZ Bodyart Trust or the artists they have mentored.

Mem Bourke and her team have also encouraged overseas artists to come and give classes to share their expertise.

New Zealand body painting artists are now world class and have achieved high placings in the World Bodypainting awards in Austria.

Now I am retired I have a variety of endeavours that I can support. One I choose to continue with is Mem and her team as she works to improve the recognition and excellence of this amazing art form.

Regards

David Minifie