MAS celebrates community connection and emerging artists at Art in the Park

MAS was proud to partner with Art in the Park to launch the MAS Emerging Artists’ Gallery and present 2 special MAS Art Awards.

The event, which ran from 18 to 21 September, was a spectacular celebration of creativity and community. Eden Park’s Grand Hall / Te Pa was buzzing with energy as more than 150 artists presented upwards of 3,000 unique works, from paintings and prints to photography and sculpture.

The feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive and there was a strong sense that visitors didn’t just come to view art, they came to connect and be part of something meaningful.

As part of our partnership, This dedicated space showcased the work of talented individuals who have completed the with The King’s Trust Aotearoa New Zealand – a programme that equips artists with the tools to thrive in the creative industries.

Matt Harvey, Chief Distribution and Marketing Officer at MAS, says this partnership is a natural extension of MAS’s values.

“As a Member-owned mutual that was founded by doctors, we’ve always cared deeply about the health and wellbeing of our Members and their communities.

“Creativity plays a vital role in wellbeing and in bringing people together. Supporting the next generation of artists is one of the many ways we can invest in a more connected and inspired Aotearoa New Zealand,” says Matt.

A highlight of the event was the announcement of the inaugural MAS Art Awards, celebrating the exceptional talent within the gallery.

• The MAS Emerging Artist Award, voted on by MAS employees from around the motu, was awarded to Natalie Gelder.
• The MAS Outstanding Artwork Award, decided by a panel of expert judges, was presented to Logan Bow.

The judging panel for the Outstanding Artwork Award included Rod Baxter (CEO, The King’s Trust Aotearoa New Zealand), Rob Campbell (Chancellor, AUT University) and Kendall Morgan-Marshall (Director, Scratch Design).

MAS is proud of the success of this year’s event and will continue exploring ways to support the communities our Members care about.