Make the most of your lunch break during the NZ International Arts Festival 2012. Art Talks are a series of conversations with some of the Festival’s national and international artists.

The free hour-long lunchtime talks are at the TelstraClear Festival Club on Wellington’s Waterfront. You can also watch live streams on The Big Idea's facebook, via the Festival.

Monday February 27th, 1pm – The Wild Bride - Chaired by Jo Randerson

Join members of the Kneehigh theatre company as they discuss taking their work from the fields of Cornwall to London’s West End and Broadway.

Tuesday February 28th, 1pm – Masi - Chaired by Lynn Freeman

The Conch director Nina Nawalowalo and British illusionist Paul Kieve talk about the cross- cultural creation of Masi.

Wednesday February 29th, 1pm – Tu - Chaired by Murray Lynch

Adapting someone else’s story to stage – join Hone Kouka as he discusses writing a play inspired by Patricia Grace’s best selling novel.

Friday March 2nd, 1pm – Birds with Skymirrors - Chaired by Anton Carter

An opportunity to hear Lemi Ponifasio talk about his experiences touring the works of Mau to some of the most prestigious stages in the world

Saturday March 3rd, 12pm – The Sixteen - Chaired by Peter Walls

A rare chance to hear from the renowned conductor and founder of The Sixteen, Harry Christophers.

Thursday March 8th, 1pm – Beautiful Burnout - Chaired by Michael Hurst

What does it mean to be a theatre company without bricks and mortar? The National Theatre of Scotland talks about their approach to building a new generation of theatre goers.

Friday March 9th, 1pm – The Animals and Children Took to the Streets - Chaired by Weta

Wellington is awash with digital creators. Be there as members of theatre company 1927 talk with local experts in the field.

Saturday March 10th, 12pm – Political Mother - Chaired by Garry Trinder

In conversation with Hofesh Shechter – one of the most important voices in contemporary dance.

Tuesday March 13th, 1pm – Tinariwen - Chaired by Simon Sweetman

A chance to witness this North African group share tales of struggle and success in their musical endeavours.

Wednesday March 14th, 1pm – Letting Space - Chaired by Sophie Jeram

Gain insight into Mark Harvey’s Productive Bodies, where his ideas of human usefulness and productivity take on a whole new spin.

Thursday March 15th, 1pm – First Contact - Chaired by Helen Kedgley

Acclaimed New Zealand artist Michael Tuffery gives an insight into the evolution of his latest multi-media installation, First Contact 2012.

Further information.