Arts student plans dream event
Combining her love for event management and all things Japanese, final-year student Hannah Bradley was given a rare opportunity to host her own event, Haru no Kawa, as part of her workplace experience with Auckland Artweek.
Hannah, a Bachelor of Arts in Event Management and Japanese Studies student, approached the Auckland Artweek team about internship and work placement opportunities, which led to her creating her own event as part of the event line-up.
The Japanese exhibition, Haru no Kawa, was a showcase of Japanese culture beyond the expected and sometimes stereotypical aspects of Japanese identity.
“I wanted to authentically promote the Japanese artistic society of New Zealand. They are Japanese people, and do not always adhere to the stereotypical Japanese themed events that are usually held. I therefore created the exhibition around the Japanese artisans that have chosen New Zealand as their home,” says Hannah.
Her planning for the event involved sourcing sponsorship, collaborating with artists in the exhibition, recruiting volunteers, marketing and the overall event co-ordination.
The event was a success; a testament to Hannah’s event management expertise and Japanese cultural competency. It also was successful for the contributing artists, who were able to raise their profile and connect with other Japanese artisans in the region.
“I’ve learnt so much along this journey – from how to deal with stress, to leadership and greater self-awareness, and most valuably, I’ve been able to make connections with leaders in the industry that I want to work in.”
Haru no Kawa was held on Saturday 13 October at the Swan Hotel in Parnell as part of the 2018 Auckland Artweek line-up.