Southland's arts scene is bigger than anyone expected.
More than 90 nominations flooded in for this year's regional arts awards — a number that surprised even the organisers. Arts Murihiku now faces the pleasant problem of choosing between four to six finalists in each of nine categories.
"The judges were impressed not only by the calibre of work happening across Southland, but also by the wide range of people contributing to our arts community," Arts Murihiku said.
The nominations span everything from teenage talent to decades-long supporters. Creative types, sure, but also the people who make art possible from the shadows.
"Not everyone who makes a difference stands in the spotlight," Arts Murihiku said. "Categories such as Production Excellence recognise those working behind the scenes, while the Patronage Award acknowledges businesses and individuals who support the arts through sponsorship, encouragement and advocacy."
The judges — Deborah Waikapohe, Sara Litchfield and Rob Cloughley — had their work cut out. "Selecting finalists was not easy, and there were strong discussions around the contribution and impact of nominees across a wide range of artforms and roles," Arts Murihiku said.
Among the finalists: teenage musicians Lachie McGregor and Lara Kerr compete for Emerging Talent. Artist Amber Timpany and musician Brian Johnston are up for Creative Excellence. Production veterans Tony Parish and Jersey Rhein could take Production Excellence.
The Lifetime Achievement shortlist reads like a who's who of Southland arts: Darren Ludlow, Maxine Treweek, Phil Geary, Sue Donkin, Steve Gooding and Angela Newell.
For patronage, McCullochs Architects sits alongside individual supporters like Stephane Fabre and Nicola McGilvray. Arts collective Arts Murihiku also made the patronage shortlist, keeping the local scene alive through community support.
"Together, these awards celebrate the full creative ecosystem that makes the arts possible," Arts Murihiku said.
The awards evening hits Ascot Park Hotel on Saturday August 15. Last year's inaugural event sold out — a decent sign for a region that supposedly doesn't do culture.
The Supreme Award winner gets announced on the night, chosen from all categories for showing "excellence, creativity and significant impact on the artistic landscape of Southland."