Unique opportunity for young art collectors at Waikato Museum

Young art collectors will have the opportunity to view and purchase affordable art works during the popular Muka Youth Print Exhibition at the Waikato Museum this weekend [11-12 October].

Each year Muka Studio tours a new collection of 40 original prints by leading artists worldwide to more than 30 venues around New Zealand, with the aim of introducing young people to art.

While the cost of art work is normally prohibitive for young people, this exhibition offers a unique solution – a special exhibition of affordable original prints are displayed for children to select according to their own tastes. During the exhibition, artists' names and signatures are covered over, allowing young art collectors to look at the work without considering the fame of the artist or potential for financial gain.

With adults not permitted into the exhibition, Waikato Museum Education Programmes Leader Sarah Oliver said it will be great opportunity for young people to select and purchase art pieces for themselves, without any guidance or influence.

"It is great for young people to have the chance to select an artwork simply because it appeals to them, rather than because someone older than them told them to choose it. You never know what they will come away with," she said.

This year during Muka Youth Print Exhibition there will also be a special opportunity for children to make their own small print for just $4, with guidance from Waikato Printmakers.

The exhibition is being held this Saturday [11 October] from 12pm-4.30pm and Sunday [12 October] from 10am-4.30pm. Entry is free and open to 5-18 year olds (inclusive).