Diversity & Harmony
New Zealand Asian Arts Festival and the 4th International Art Exhibition by the New Zealand Chinese Arts & Culture Association
Every artist plays an important role in the course of human history.
Through their creations, we witness the layers of history and the brilliance of the human spirit. Their works express care, empathy, and a shared emotional connection. For viewers, art is not only a source of aesthetic and philosophical inspiration, but also a call to social responsibility and a deeper yearning for a meaningful and beautiful life.
In the pure and expansive land of Aotearoa New Zealand, culture has never been singular in color.
As Asian communities continue to grow and thrive here, a unique celebration of art—centered on the spirit of diversity and coexistence—is quietly shining. The New Zealand Asian Arts Festival and the 4th International Art Exhibition by the New Zealand Chinese Arts & Culture Association bring together this vibrant expression.
This exhibition brings together outstanding artists from China, New Zealand, and across the Asia-Pacific region.
Using brush and canvas as their language and bridge, these artists engage in a heartfelt dialogue that transcends language, nationality, and ethnicity. As a signature event of the Asian Arts Festival, this exhibition carries a mission of cultural exchange and artistic innovation, showcasing the confidence and creativity of contemporary Chinese artists in the global arena.
The works presented over the years reflect not only personal artistic exploration, but also the imprint of an era shaped by East-West cultural fusion.
Tradition and modernity, nature and humanity, expression and concept—they dance together in harmony, highlighting New Zealand’s openness, vibrancy, and strength as a multicultural society.
We warmly invite every visitor to step into the paintings and listen to the stories behind the colors.
Feel the power of coexistence and embrace the beauty of diversity. This is more than an art exhibition—it is a cultural encounter and the beginning of a shared journey into the future.
Overview
The New Zealand Asian Arts Festival and the 4th International Art Exhibition by the New Zealand Chinese Arts & Culture Association will be grandly held at the Christchurch Arts Centre in July 2025, with a simultaneous online exhibition available worldwide.
This event is co-hosted by the New Zealand Every One Is an Artist Foundation and the New Zealand Chinese Arts & Culture Association, and proudly supported by the New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs, the Consulate-General of the People's Republic of China in Christchurch, the Ministry for Ethnic Communities, the Christchurch City Council, and numerous cultural organizations.
The exhibition aims to build a cultural bridge between Asian artists and local communities, showcasing the creative energy and humanistic spirit of contemporary Asian art within a multicultural context. The artworks reflect the artists’ profound reflections on nature, society, and personal experience, while also presenting the cultural attitude of coexistence and integration embodied by Asian communities living abroad.
Curator's Statement
When we talk about the boundaries of art, we are also exploring the intersection of culture and identity. With the theme “Diversity and Coexistence,” this exhibition brings together Asian artists from a variety of backgrounds and cultural contexts. Through their unique perspectives, they create a collective visual resonance that belongs to our time.
New Zealand is a society where diversity and inclusiveness coexist. And art is a key that opens the door to mutual understanding. This exhibition is more than a platform for display—it is a space for seeing, listening, and connecting. Here, we witness the continuity of tradition alongside the spark of innovation. In every line and every hue, we feel the artists’ deep reflections on land, community, and personal identity.
We sincerely thank all the participating artists for their trust and dedication, and every viewer for their time and thoughtful engagement. Through art, may we feel diversity, embrace coexistence, and together envision a shared future.
New Zealand is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural atmosphere. The dramatic cliffs and waterfalls of Milford Sound, the majestic glaciers of Aoraki / Mount Cook, and the starry skies over Lake Tekapo—recognized as an official International Dark Sky Reserve—offer unforgettable natural wonders.
The South Island also features charming cities such as Christchurch, with its European elegance; Dunedin, rich in Scottish heritage; and Nelson, known for its vibrant arts scene. Here, Māori traditions blend harmoniously with Western artistic expressions, while street performers, music festivals, and gallery exhibitions infuse this pristine land with creativity and life.
Organizers:
Everyone an Artist Trust
New Zealand Chinese Arts & Cultural Association
Supporters:
New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs
Consulate-General of the People's Republic of China in Christchurch
New Zealand Ministry of Social Development
New Zealand Ministry for Ethnic Communities
Christchurch City Council
Rātā Foundation
Lotto New Zealand
The Arts Centre of Christchurch
Everyone an Artist Trust is a non-profit organization based in Christchurch, New Zealand. It is dedicated to promoting global cultural and artistic exchange, advancing arts education, and encouraging community engagement.
The Trust organizes a wide range of events, including the Asian Arts Festival and the Earth Day International Youth Art Exhibition, aiming to foster cultural inclusivity, raise environmental awareness, and provide meaningful platforms for artists to showcase their work.
The Trust also operates the Eager Art School, which offers art education programs to nurture emerging talent and support the integration of the arts into everyday community life.
"The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls."
— Pablo Picasso
EXHIBITION
Call for Artwork Submissions
Call for Artwork Submissions
We are pleased to announce the 2025 New Zealand Asian Arts Festival &
The 4th International Art Exhibition by NZ Chinese Arts & Cultural Association
are now accepting artwork submissions.
1. Submission Deadline
All online submissions must be received by May 10, 2025 (inclusive). Late submissions will not be accepted.
2. Entry Fee
There is no registration or participation fee. Selected artworks will be exhibited at the Arts Centre of Christchurch, New Zealand.
3. Submission Guidelines & Process
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Each artist may submit 2 to 5 original works.
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Submissions are to be made online. Selected artists will be asked to mail their original works for physical display in Christchurch.
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All entries will be professionally reviewed and selected by a jury panel comprising members of the Art Committee of NZ Chinese Arts & Cultural Association and invited members of the China Artists Association.
Artwork Requirements
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Please ensure all submitted works are properly mounted or framed, and suitable for safe hanging or installation.
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All works must be original and the artist assumes full responsibility for copyright compliance.
Size Requirements
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Maximum width (including frame): 1.5 meters
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Minimum width (including frame): 0.6 meters
Online Submission Format
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Submit clear, high-quality photos of the original works.
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Image size: 1MB–5MB, with sufficient clarity to represent the original accurately.
Artist Information Submission
Please include the following with your submission:
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Full name
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Artist bio (within 100 words)
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A personal photo
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Artwork title, dimensions, medium
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Indicate whether the artwork is for sale
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If for sale, include the price
Artist and Artwork Benefits
Exhibition Benefits for Artists
The exhibition provides artists with a premier international platform to showcase their works at one of New Zealand's most culturally influential art venues—the Arts Centre of Christchurch. We will ensure that every step of the artist’s experience is marked by professionalism and respect.
International Exposure Opportunities:
The exhibition will attract local and international media coverage, enhancing the artist's visibility in the global art market.
Exclusive Opening and Networking Events:
Artists will be invited to participate in the opening ceremony, media interviews, and academic exchange activities (visa and travel expenses are self-funded; the organizers will provide a special artist invitation letter for overseas artists). This is an opportunity to interact with local New Zealand artists, collectors, and curators.
Official Certificate, Honors, and Exhibition Catalog:
The exhibition will produce official certificates of participation and a beautifully designed catalog featuring the exhibited artworks. The certificates will be stamped with the official seal of the organizing committee and logos from the co-organizers and government entities. (This is an optional service; the cost for the certificate and catalog, including postage, is NZD 100. Additional exhibition catalogs are available at NZD 50 each, including postage.)
Note: Special Artist Visa
The Special Artist Visa is a unique visa provided by the New Zealand Immigration Office for overseas artists attending the New Zealand Asian Arts Festival. This special visa allows artists to travel to New Zealand for the event.
New Zealand Asia Art Festival & The 4th NZCFA International Calligraphy and Painting Exhibition
Exhibition Submission Form Personal Information
Cost: Transfer
點擊或掃描付款
Account Name: Everyone an Artist Trust
Account Number:
06-0665-0535149-00
Please use your child's name, school name and room number as reference.