Wanaka Art Scene: Top 5 Cultural Gems

Wanaka, that seriously gorgeous town resting by the South Island’s lake, might be known for its scenery, sure, yet it’s also actually home to a surprising stash of artistic talent and really cool cultural experiences. Right? This isn’t just a place for skiiers and hikers, not really, it seems, it’s also really a spot where creativity blossoms, where local artists show off their unique perspectives on the Southern Alps, the lakes, and life, in general. Are you thinking of poking around Wanaka’s spots where you can take in art and culture? I’ve got a list for you, a pretty select set of spots that really show what makes this region tick, creatively. Let’s check out the spaces where Wanaka shows its colors!

1. The National Transport and Toy Museum: A Quirky Celebration of History

Okay, so museums aren’t really your only places for seeing cool creative expressions. As I’ve come to see things, the National Transport and Toy Museum could be pretty amazing as a reflection of a more popular, home-grown style of local art. Think about it. Rather than focusing solely on paintings, it seems this location celebrates transport, play and some creative history in really awesome ways. Like, where else can you check out super rare vehicles along with thousands of classic toys? Very cool, it seems. Is this place very kid-friendly, of course, although I know many adults get equally enthralled. You should prepare to go down memory lane while taking in an important chunk of New Zealand’s engineering and design background.

As a bit of historical context, is that this museum did actually begin as a personal collection. So it has grown into a popular spot to see in Wanaka. That’s great isn’t it. The evolution shows you the importance of those pieces of transport. Toy heritage can have on the town and also visitors alike.

The museum shows an enormous, vast collection from a vast collection, in the context of looking at what toys actually show to people about the development of creativity over eras gone by. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Toy and Transport History)

Read our full review: National Transport and Toy Museum Full Review and Details

2. Gallery Thirty Three: Contemporary Art with a Local Heart

Now, alright, let’s focus on contemporary visual expression for a bit. Right? Gallery Thirty Three might be worth looking into. As I’ve heard from people, that’s a popular spot in Wanaka. As far as showcasing amazing artists who’re either from the region or have a very strong connection to it, this gallery seems to do just that. Are you wanting a variety of stuff, then you are likely going to get your wishes fulfilled. You might be seeing photography which captures the vibe of the Otago region. All the way up to awesome paintings, as it were, to even jewelry. Like jewelry made by local hands and inspired by what the mountain environment brings to those creatives. Just picture walking through the spot. Every item almost, it appears, echoing the landscapes and the spirits in Otago, basically, in the Southern Alps.

And I think it’s kind of true, very probably in fact: this gallery isn’t only just where pieces show, it’s a hub in which conversations between local visionaries may find avenues. Maybe you’re visiting for looking and even admiring the scenery around Wanaka. And the awesome spirit, the artistic vibe from local artists? Seems like that might possibly come true. As far as contemporary New Zealander Art is concerned, this is pretty unique, as it also promotes pieces made with a connection in heart.

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Read our full review: Gallery Thirty Three Full Review and Details

3. Wanaka Arts Society: Community Creativity

Ok, if you’re hoping to meet people as an arts aficionado. Check Wanaka Arts Society out. It is just possible you can join as well. The thing I notice about such organizations is that people meet together. As well, that the individuals support creatives, too. As it appears, this art group might present occasions. They show new artists in exhibitions plus chances at engaging at group workshops. So, the workshops may mean someone picks up, perhaps. What I am thinking of in this moment, anyway is, to acquire art making in skills or fresh creative perspectives!

For vacationers hoping to engage to the area further by learning, or perhaps, watching local artists. This is how to start. I think it will show local community contributions by arts culture which will provide really deep moments for tourists.

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Read our full review: Wanaka Arts Society Full Review and Details

4. Festival of Colour: A Biennial Burst of Creativity

Want a festival which you can visit by chance while doing a Southern Alps journey, of some form. Well, consider, perhaps, The Festival of Colour? Just maybe. In fact this show, which is shown only for about two weeks biennially (I did research, that’s an every other-year festival). And that features art by everyone like actors, writers and also of local and even international status. Right? Shows as well as presentations which show a little local touch within the world are there for travelers. At this display of shows.

This may let travelers share ideas or talk by engaging at community. While at trips here. You are given great exposure toward this event. As Wanaka seems to present an impression from those two weeks where everyone talks relating the event to people back home once traveling ends! Find new art! See it right in these hills! This is why such an organization brings awesome value to art within the communities of Wanaka’s backyard!

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Read our full review: Festival of Colour Full Review and Details

5. Cinema Paradiso: Film as an Art Form

Wanaka might provide you another, awesome option besides movies. I am talking an extremely cool viewing area. Where they provide freshly made baked products at intermissions. Yes very. Cinema Paradiso brings back yesteryear. This, I just noticed now anyway, means a very vintage experience as one views their options up on big screens. A film from here creates another way as to see another man’s imagination which comes through. All done right around community and local level.

In Wanaka, taking in visual pieces. I just mean art pieces? I have presented for you five spots as options! This could show others exactly that Southern Alps isn’t about mountains to just climb only. It could offer great visionaries. By toys to film or just arts created around the village, these events are treasures. Take note when touring.

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Read our full review: Cinema Paradiso Full Review and Details