Hanahiva Rose

BA (Hons) in Art History graduate Hanahiva is now an assistant curator of contemporary art and collections at the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery.

Graduate, Bachelor of Arts with First Class Honours in Art History

I’m the assistant curator of contemporary art and collections at the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery in New Plymouth. I provide curatorial and organisational support for exhibitions; liaising with artists, curators and Govett-Brewster staff to achieve the exhibitions from concept to installation. I’m also a freelance writer and am regularly published nationally for my writing on Māori and Pacific art practices in Aotearoa.

The University provided me with opportunities for thoughtful and considered learning—both inside and outside the traditional classroom space. Through the Art History programme I held curatorial and research internships that allowed me to engage in the real-world applications of art history research.

I loved studying at Wellington’s university because of all the people I met. The lecturers were thoughtful and generous with their time, and always critically insightful. I also enjoyed the access I had to excellent research tools—the Library has a wonderful collection, and the Turnbull Library is only down the road, as is Te Papa.

Wellington was a great place to study because of the many opportunities there are to engage with art and artists. I enjoyed getting to know the Adam Art Gallery, Enjoy Public Art Gallery, City Gallery, Te Papa, the Dowse and Pātaka, as well as the dealer galleries and artist-run spaces scattered around town.