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After more than two decades working in museums Cherie Meecham still feels privileged and passionate about telling stories and engaging visitors.

"To handle, care for and display some truly amazing taonga, artworks and objects is such a privilege."

The Waikato Museum director tells us a bit about herself and this year's National Contemporary Art Award.

After more than two decades working in museums Cherie Meecham still feels privileged and passionate about telling stories and engaging visitors.

"To handle, care for and display some truly amazing taonga, artworks and objects is such a privilege."

The Waikato Museum director tells us a bit about herself and this year's National Contemporary Art Award.

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During what hours of the day do you feel most inspired?

The start of my working day.

How would a good friend describe your aesthetic or style?

Quietly determined.

What aspect of your creative practice gives you the biggest thrill?

I enjoy watching others being creative and then seeing how that impacts on our visitors.

How does your environment affect your work?

I am constantly aware of how lucky I am to work in a museum/gallery setting.  To handle, care for and display some truly amazing taonga, artworks and objects is such a privilege.

Do you like to look at the big picture or focus on the details?

I’m a details girl naturally but I like to be a part of the big picture stuff.

What's your number one business tip for surviving (and thriving) in the creative industries?

I have learnt to look, listen and take advice from those more creative than I am.

Which of your projects to date has given you the most satisfaction?

There have been many but probably the most poignant was working with veterans of B Company 28 Maori Battalion on an exhibition at Rotorua Museum, so incredibly humble and their stories immensely sad, many of whom have since passed away.

Who or what has inspired you recently?

My grandfather, who at 92 years old returned to Italy with the recent 70 year commemoration after being a POW in WW2.  He wanted to put some ghosts to rest.  Soon to be 93, he is intelligent, fit, healthy and a great role model.

Tell us a bit about your background.

I have worked in museums for nearly 25 years.  I am passionate about telling stories and the visitor experience.

Tell us about your role at Waikato Museum.

My job is to lead the development of the museum and to ensure the strategic direction is followed.  To make our local community feel proud about their museum and to encourage new and repeat visitation. To ensure our museum is recognised nationally amongst other museums and to be a recognised leader in tourism here in the Waikato.

Tell us about this year's National Contemporary Art Award?

The National Contemporary Art Award is always a highlight on our calendar. This is the 15th year of the award and this year Aaron Kreisler is the judge. Aaron's role is pivotal in not only choosing the winner and merit awards, but also shaping the award exhibition and documenting New Zealand art history.  Our entrants come from all corners of New Zealand and their aim, to present an artwork that exemplifies what New Zealand contemporary art looks like in 2015 makes viewing the exhibition exciting.

If you could go back and choose a completely different career path to the one you've chosen, what would it be?

I always wanted to be a forensic scientist. 

What place is always with you, wherever you go?

Rotorua – the lakes, the smell, the people

What's the best way to listen to music, and why?

In the car with my children in the back seat singing to the music

You are given a piece of string, a stick and some fabric. What do you make?

Teepee

What's the best stress relief advice you've ever been given?

Don’t sweat the small stuff.  It’s easy to say, not so easy to do!

What’s great about today?

The sun is out and the museum galleries are buzzing with visitors

What’s your big idea for 2015?

To renovate the bathroom in my 100 year old house