About Us

About Us

We are a self funding Incorporated Society dedicated to the visual arts. For 127 years the New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts has occupied a unique position for the arts in New Zealand, and Wellington in particular. Throughout our illustrious history many of this country's finest Artists have been a part of our Journey.

We aim to benefit the community of New Zealand through the promotion, creation, understanding and enjoyment of the visual arts. Regular exhibitions featuring new work from established and emerging artists throughout New Zealand are held in the Academy’s architectural award winning galleries.

Guy Ngan - Oceania no 1, Academy collection

From the beginning the Academy has been run by artists for artists and the primary focus of Academy activity is the year round exhibition program, featuring new work by established and emerging artists from throughout Aotearoa. Our commission rates are some of the lowest in the country, with submission of artworks open to all.

You can view the Academy Exhibition Program in Upcoming Events on the right-hand sidebar, highlights of our current and recent Exhibitions and the official Exhibition Selection Policy to see how you can be part of an Academy Exhibition.

Gallery three

The office at work

The Academy caters for a number of arts interests and opportunities, from a variety of memberships, the buying or selling of artworks, touring exhibitions, to Awards and sponsorships.

The galleries are available to hire for exhibitions or functions and there are many opportunities to help out whether with your time or other resources.

The gallery is run by a President and council, three paid staff and a team of volunteers.