Art ache at Piha's famous shack

A much-loved West Auckland gallery needs a financial lifeline and local fans are demanding the council helps out, reports Valerie Schuler
Not that long ago, Piha's West Coast Gallery was little more than a shack.
Nowadays, the rusty roller doors on the former fire station have given way to stylish bi-folds. Freshly painted walls boast a wild array of works by Waitakere's unique artistic talents.
But the winter season and looming recession have taken their toll on the small Seaview Rd gallery. To keep up the good work, it needs help.
Anawhata resident Glenys Scott, who runs the gallery, hopes Waitakere City Council will come to the party.
She has applied for $10,000 to help cover running costs.
``The last summer was our best yet, but now things have slowed right down,' she says.
``We really hope the council will help out, so we can survive the winter season.'
When the old fire station closed in 2000, a group of local artists got together and set up the West Coast Community Arts Trust. Nowadays, what started off as a hippy-dippy shack the size of an old fire truck is a popular hub for local painters, photographers, jewellers and ceramic artists.
Over the years, the likes of Dean Buchanan, Zeke Wolf and Stephanie Kroeger have exhibited.
``We've built up quite a reputation with international tourists who visit the area,' says Mrs Scott.
``But our primary aim is to keep giving back to the community.' All profits from the small gallery go back into running it.
As well as offering exhibition space for Waitakere's budding artists, the centre hosts community events and workshops.
The council owns the building and has given some funding to the gallery in the past. But most income is generated through art sales.
Mrs Scott saw the council in May. She is still awaiting a response.
``It was a bit scary. But I think the presentation went well, so fingers crossed,' she says.
As well as covering day-to-day running costs, she hopes the funding will help set up a website.
If there's money left over, she plans to tile the bare concrete floor.