A vibrant, sunny environment has inspired a dynamic artists’ culture in Nelson for generations.
Rich with glass artists, painters, sculptors, photographers, and fashion designers, you’ll love the unique, arty flavour of the region.
If visiting Nelson Tasman on the weekend, make sure to stop by a local market, held every Saturday morning in central Nelson City, and every Sunday morning in Motueka. An absolute must-do during your visit, the markets feature works from a large number of local artisans.
Nelson Tasman is home to three of the oldest cultural establishments, the Suter Art Gallery, the Theatre Royal and the Nelson Centre of Musical Arts, all of which showcase and celebrate the artistic culture of the region through performances, art displays and music.
Hoglund Art Glass – famous the world over – began when Swedish glassblowing couple Ola and Marie Hoglund arrived in Nelson in the mid 1980s. Hoglund pieces are known for their strong, simple lines of classic Scandinavian glassware, with the addition of a Pacific feel and vibrant colours. Visit the Hoglund Art Glass Studio & Gallery in Appleby, 20 minutes from Central Nelson and easily accessible via the Tasman Great Taste Trail.
New Zealand’s best known landscape photographer, Craig Potton, was born in Nelson Tasman. His passion for conservation of the New Zealand environment shines through in his work, which often focuses on the relationship between artistic beauty and wilderness in the natural world. A print or book by Craig Potton is the ultimate reminder of New Zealand’s natural beauty. Head to the Craig Potton Gallery & Store in Central Nelson.
Or why not time your visit with one of the many arts events held in the region every year? The annual Art Expo and Arts Festival is a key attraction in the spring, the Buskers Festival in the summer, the Fringe Festival in autumn and the bi-annual Light Nelson event every other winter.
