Emily Perkins. Photo / SuppliedTen artists deemed the most worthy in New Zealand were given awards totalling $360,000 last night.
The Arts Foundation grant was distributed at the first annual national Macquarie Private Wealth New Zealand Arts Awards held at the Viaduct Events Centre in Auckland.
Five $50,000 Laureate Awards went to musician Whirimako Black, photographer Fiona Pardington, writer Emily Perkins (left), filmmaker Leanne Pooley and choreographer/director Lemi Ponifasio.
Musician/artist Sam Hamilton, photographer Ben Cauchi and playwright Eli Kent received $25,000 New Generation Awards.
Pardington's brother, Neil, received the $25,000 Marti Friedlander Photographic Award and was inaugural recipient of the $10,000 Mallinson Rendel Award was David Elliot.
Arts Foundation executive director Simon Bowden said last night's awards were one of their most ambitious projects and were a celebration of philanthropic support for the arts.
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And a full report at the Arts Foundation website.