Laree Payne appointed new curator at Toi Tauranga Art Gallery

Laree Payne has been appointed as the new Curator of Toi Tauranga Art Gallery marking an exciting new chapter for one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s leading regional galleries.

Originally from Tauranga Moana, Payne returns to the region with a renewed interest in the role a public gallery can play in shaping a community.

Payne says, “It feels incredibly meaningful to return to my home city in this capacity. Toi Tauranga Art Gallery opened in 2007, just before I left, and so easy access to a public art gallery is not something I had the privilege of growing up with. With the potential to have a significant impact on a population over time, I am so looking forward to getting to know the community Toi Tauranga Art Gallery sits within and working to develop the region’s relationship with art.”

With experience as a curator, director and project manager, most recently leading her own gallery in Kirikiriroa Hamilton, Payne has curated and delivered more than 80 exhibitions and built a reputation for presenting rigorous, engaging contemporary art. Payne’s career spans both the commercial and public art sectors, including the delivery of a major public artwork for MESH Sculpture Trust at the end of last year by the internationally recognised Francis Upritchard.

Toi Tauranga Art Gallery Director Sonya Korohina says, “Laree’s curatorial approach is grounded in both critical practice and community engagement and her appointment reflects our ongoing commitment to dynamic, thoughtful programming that reflects both local and national conversations in contemporary art. She brings a compelling vision for how Toi Tauranga Art Gallery can continue to evolve as a civic space that not only presents outstanding contemporary art, but also contributes meaningfully to the cultural life of our region.”

Payne holds a Master of Arts in Arts Management where she focused on contemporary art and meaning-making, as well as a Bachelor of Social Work – an influence that continues to shape her curiosity.

“Public galleries have a unique responsibility, and opportunity, to create spaces for reflection, dialogue and connection. I’m interested in further exploring art’s social value in the Bay of Plenty,” she says.

Follow Toi Tauranga Art Gallery’s reopening events and activities, and upcoming exhibitions, on the website and social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn).