The project

What was the Real Art Roadshow?

The Real Art Roadshow was New Zealand’s biggest travelling art collection. Wheeling its way into schools across the country, the mobile art gallery unfolded to form an 80m2 space and throughout its 10-year history displayed over 120 original artworks by leading New Zealand artists.

What was the objective of the Roadshow?

The Real Art Roadshow aimed to give students with an interest in art an opportunity to see the real thing; to be inspired, challenged and ‘wowed’ by the true scale, texture and colour of original artworks, no matter where they lived. For many of the students, prior to visiting the Roadshow they had only encountered New Zealand art through textbooks and web images. Realising that it’s not always possible to bring the students to the art, the team had a ‘eureka’ moment and decided to bring the art to the students.

Where did the art collection come from?

The Real Art Roadshow collection was purchased from dealers, auction houses and from the artists themselves. The show was curated with art students in mind and dovetailed neatly into the New Zealand art curriculum, while still being full of the unexpected.

The collection featured both renowned and emerging New Zealand artists and encompassed a variety of genres including painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, jewellery and ceramics. The collection was incredibly well received by students, teachers, and the wider public.

Who paid for the Real Art Roadshow?

The Real Art Roadshow was a not-for-profit, charitable organisation funded by Fiona Campbell, and visits were free for schools and students. Thanks to the presence of our friendly and knowledgeable staff and volunteers, student visits did not require school staff to attend, making it easy for the schools and students to enjoy the experience.