Two artists have been selected for six-week visual arts residencies hosted at the Rotorua Arts Village Experience (RAVE) from February 2009.

Sculptor Jamie Pickernell and carver Rakei Kingi (pictured) have a growing body of work in public and private collections throughout the country. Two artists have been selected for six-week visual arts residencies hosted at the Rotorua Arts Village Experience (RAVE) from February 2009.

Sculptor Jamie Pickernell and carver Rakei Kingi (pictured) have a growing body of work in public and private collections throughout the country.The residencies are likely to be concurrent, adding to the "village" atmosphere during Te Ihi Te Wehi Rotorua Festival of Arts.

Rotorua District Council community arts officer, Kiri Jarden, says the pair was selected from a number of very good local candidates.

"As with any selection process, the decisions were made after intense discussion. Both artists presented very strong proposals, with lots of great opportunities for community engagement, which was pleasing as we weren't sure whether we could attain this with the short residencies."

The residency programme is in its second year with writer Vivienne Plumb, performer Grace Hoete, and musician Horomona Horo as past recipients.

"The programme supports artists to take time out from their regular work by covering some of the basic costs of living, and enabling the artist to create new work or explore new territory.

"For the local community there are always opportunities to learn from and engage with the artist," says Ms Jarden.

Jamie and Rakei both feature in 'The Volcanic Heartland Guide: our Story Through Public Art' published by Rotorua District Council last year.

www.creativerotorua.org.nz

13/01/09