Art Programmes

Monica Brewster Evenings

Monica Brewster Evenings are monthly evening discussions featuring invited speakers from across the creative sector. Introduced as part of the Gallery's programme in 1999, the series has presented a remarkable array of leading creative thinkers, enablers and practitioners to New Plymouth audiences since then.

The programme runs from March to October annually - see what's coming up and secure your ticket here. 

Monica Brewster Evenings are produced in partnership with Govett Quilliam - The Lawyers, with further event support from Michael Radich Winemerchants, Theory Food, and Shining Peak brewing. 

Summer Drop-in Studio: MAFANA

MAFANA: a neurotopia
MAFANA: takiwātanga
MAFANA: fale lalaga

Offering sensory friendly engagement for intergenerational audiences of diverse abilities MAFANA features, weaving, multilingual storytelling, sensory furniture and journeys through light and dark environments. Imagined as a place for rest, reflection and play; experience MAFANA takiwātanga – in your own time and space.

MAFANA is delivered in collaboration with our friends at Autism Connex.

MAFANA is a drop in, interactive space in TELC 1 & 2
Open during Gallery open hours 10am - 5pm
Friday 27th Dec 2024 - Thursday 23rd Jan 2025

Young Visionaries

Young Visionaries is the Govett-Brewster’s after-school art programme, where kids are inspired, encouraged and supported to explore their creativity and expand their world through hands-on, art-based education programmes.

Programmes are available each term for those aged 6 - 8 on Wednesday afternoons, and 9 - 12 on Thursday afternoons. Term programmes cost $73:50 per student and can be booked online.

Young Visionaries are generously supported by Baker Tilly Staples Rodway.

Toi Mā Te Whānau | Family Art

Drop into the Todd Energy Learning Centre between 10.30am and 12.30pm every Sunday morning (except during the summer school holidays) for Family Art – free, hands-on artmaking sessions inspired by the current exhibitions.

Activities are designed for the whole family to enjoy.

All Family Art activities are free, though donations are appreciated.

Gallery Seniors

Govett-Brewster Seniors offer a monthly dose of art and culture, with free-flowing conversations and experiences of contemporary art based on, in and around the Gallery’s current exhibitions and events. No knowledge of art is needed!

Seniors takes place from 10 - 11am on the second Friday of each month, with many regulars gathering next door at Monica’s Eatery for a coffee at 9.30am.

Let us know if you’d like to be added to the mailing list to receive updates ahead of each Seniors event.

Sense Art Tours

Our Sense Art Tours offer a tactile and audio-described way to explore exhibitions, especially for our visually impaired visitors. Tours take place during quieter moments in the Gallery, and are led by an experienced guide with resources to help explore the artworks.

Carers and guide dogs are most welcome.

For more information please contact the Gallery’s front desk team.

Waiata in the Gallery

Whether you’re a seasoned singer or new to waiata, you’re more than welcome at this uplifting, mid-week sing session, from 12.30 - 1.00pm.

We’ll provide a waiata book, and you can bring your interest and enthusiasm.

Sessions happen quarterly so stay tuned to our events page for the next Waiata in the Gallery date.