Artists' Submissions

Te Ramaroa is a celebration of community, creativity and the wonder of light.

The wonder of light

Since its inception in 2013, Te Ramaroa has become one of Nelson’s largest and favourite biennial events, enticing thousands of people to venture out on a dark winter’s night.

Te Ramaroa event will be held from 9 – 13th July 2021, open to the public between 5:30pm and 9:30pm every evening.

Submission timeline

Artists’ applications have closed in September 2019 and all successful applicants have been notified.

We are committed to working with the selected artists for our 2021 event.

Installations must convey essential qualities of light

Te Ramaroa reflects the artistic strengths and spirit of the Nelson community. It brings together technology, art, science and fantasy in the darkness of winter and installations offer a multi-sensory experience celebrating light. Important elements are the use of new technology, environmental sustainability, delight, illusion, interaction and movement. The installation is not simply a lit form but must convey essential qualities of light.

More venues around Nelson

Due to the events popularity and the huge volume of people attending each year, the creative team has made a conscious decision to shift more installations into the Nelson CBD utilising key sites of the inner city, Laneways and urban spaces for the 2021 event.

To help stimulate some creative response we have provided more detailed information on some of these key sites in the interactive map below. Hover over the key sites to see examples of some of the interesting features of these areas.

We will also be partnering with MakeShift Spaces for the next event so there is the possibility of utilising some indoor empty retail spaces for works. These spaces will enable a more controlled environment i.e darkness, sound and security.

We are looking for both large and small scale installations. Successful projects shall utilise light, be achievable, fit for purpose and meet the aims of Te Ramaroa as outlined above.

We encourage installations that utilise new or alternative technologies (e.g. solar power).

We also encourage performance and collaborative projects especially those that involve community development and participation with a focus on social and/or educational outcomes.

Selection of Art Works

The Te Ramaroa artist selection panel shall consider all submissions received.

Proposals will be assessed on the following criteria:

Aesthetic appeal, design and relevance to the specified or preferred site
Quality of design
Work history and experience
Suitability to the outdoor environment, location and durability
Interactive elements
Creativity
Community participation or involvement
Technical demands
Risks (Health & Safety concerns or potential for vandalism)

Installation & Safety

The selected artists will be responsible for the construction and installation of the artwork. We can provide advice regarding resource or building consents where appropriate. If engineering specifications are required these costs should be included in the proposed budget.

The health and safety of our contributing artists and the public is a priority for Te Ramaroa so please carefully consider all aspects of your project from creation, installation and dismantling of your work.

Setting up a display for Te Ramaroa Light Event