Welcome to Arts Canterbury
Providing a sense of community & support for local artists
Our mission - To foster appreciation of the visual arts in Canterbury and to provide support to artists who create art.
Arts Canterbury is committed to supporting the artists, art galleries and other art related businesses throughout Canterbury, New Zealand. As an incorporated charitable organisation, Arts Canterbury is governed by an elected executive committee, whose aim is to continue to provide a range of opportunities for all members.
The declared purpose of Arts Canterbury is to:
• Provide public opportunities for people in Canterbury to develop and appreciate a wide range of art media.
• Support artists in Canterbury to display and exhibit their art.
• Support the artistic communities, galleries and cultural environments in which art and artists can thrive and develop.
• Provide learning opportunities for artists and the public.
• Promote and support visual art and artists across Canterbury.
Arts Canterbury members often talk about the sense of community and support that they have gained by becoming a member. The opportunities they receive as a member of Arts Canterbury include a variety of exhibitions throughout each calendar year, educational seminars and workshops, a members only facebook group and regular social meetups for members to interact with each other. The opportunity to have their art shared on the Arts Canterbury website and across the different social media platforms is also beneficial, especially for those who may be just starting out on their art journey.
August 1, 2026
to August 29, 2026
Kaiapoi Little Gallery is running an art sale for all of August. Beautiful art by local artists and nothing over […]
August 27, 2026
to September 6, 2026
“Work makes Work: a selection of Lincoln High School Year 11 sculpture, digital prints and photography” 27th August – 6th […]
August 6, 2026
to September 9, 2026
Waimakariri Pottery Group’s biannual exhibition at Art on the Quay Kaiapoi. This exhibition will feature a variety of ceramic items […]
We’re delighted to introduce Brett Pettit as our Featured Artist for September. A self-taught artist, Brett’s work is inspired by the wilderness and wildlife of New Zealand’s South Island, with a particular connection to the landscapes and natural beauty around his hometown of Kaikōura. Working predominantly in oils, Brett is drawn to the rich, textured qualities of impasto painting. Brett’s passion and distinctive approach clearly resonated with visitors at our recent Arts Canterbury Art Show at The Cashmere Club, where he was awarded the People’s Choice Award.