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 8, 2026
Break free from relying on dozens of tubes and discover the harmonies that only a tight palette can create. WHAT […]
August 15, 2026
White objects are rarely actually white. Learn to paint light, not just pigment. WHAT WILL YOU DO AND LEARN? A […]
August 14 7:00pm
to August 16, 2026 4:00 pm
On the 14th – 16th of August more than 90 local artists will be exhibiting at the 2026 Arts Canterbury […]
Meet Mark Larsen, Arts Canterbury’s Featured Artist for August. Working from his Clarkville studio, Mark brings together traditional signwriting craftsmanship and fine art across detailed oil paintings, sculpture, and mixed media. Inspired by Aotearoa’s landscapes, flora, and fauna, his practice balances meticulous realism with expressive, organic forms. Discover more about Mark’s creative journey, influences, and award-winning work - including "Echoes of Old" - and see his art in person at the Arts Canterbury Art Show at The Cashmere Club this August.