Catalogue gets good response

CATALOGUE: Pictured with the newly distributed Artists Open Studios catalogue are (from left), designer David Silvester, event co-ordinator Sarah Williams and Artists Open Studios chairman Ross Fallen. PICTURE / PAUL BROOKS

Artists Open Studios Whanganui 2017 catalogue is out.
Lighter on text and with an emphasis on the artists' work, the catalogue cover features the winning work of Amy Fitzgerald - an embroidered picture of her son, William, on his trike. Her work was judged by Billy Apple and Adrian Hailwood as the best of the offered works to grace the cover.
"The general reaction [to the catalogue] is really good," says event co-ordinator Sarah Williams.
"Check out Facebook and the website," says Open Studios chairman Ross Fallen. "They are hugely positive."
Distribution is extensive.
"It's just so nice for an arts event that the publication is now visual, rather than text heavy," says Sarah.
Dimensions of the booklet had to fit within specified physical criteria.
"It meets the demands of i-Site, it meets the demands of postage and it meets the demands of your hip pocket," says Ross.
The catalogue was designed by Liquid Edge Creative.
"It was Kathy [Cunningham - Events Trust chief executive] and Sarah's idea that the catalogue became more visual, and I think that they've done a superb job carrying that idea through to fruition with Liquid Edge. Just to see a simple idea travel the way it has ... " says Ross.
"I think the artists have done really well in terms of us changing the format substantially," says Sarah. "They've given us the most beautiful images and have been succinct with their writing."
A professional photography service was made available and 14 studios accepted the offer.
All artists in the catalogue are treated equally, with no ranking system.
"There was another clear change we made this year in that we didn't arrange artists by media," says Liquid Edge designer David Silvester. "There are so many of mixed media. You can tell from their imagery what their main focus is in general. It doesn't create a bias."
There is also an index in which all participating artists are listed in alphabetical order by first name.
David praised the workmanship of H&A Print in the production of the catalogue, particularly the accuracy of alignment.
There is also a new device friendly website for Artists Open Studios with an online catalogue for those who prefer technology to print.
Everything has been produced locally, promoting Whanganui as more than just an arts destination.
"So many people come here for Artists Open Studios," says Sarah. She has heard of cases where people have been to see the event then decided to move here to live.
Catalogues are available at i-Site in Taupo Quay.