Trustees

Jan moved from Auckland to Central Otago in 2007. She has a BA majoring in Art History and English and has always harboured a love of the visual, literary and performing arts. In 1987 she was instrumental in establishing one of New Zealand’s first art collectives, The Blythe Collection (1987-2007) whose focus  was exploring the development of post-World War 2 painting in New Zealand. Since being in Central Otago she has concentrated on arts administration and commitment to helping the region become a lively magnet for the whole arts community.

A self confessed book worm, Jan would like to see Central Otago celebrated nationwide for its literary heritage and outstanding writers and poets.

Dorothy attended University of Canterbury School of Fine Arts in the late 60's. Under the tuition of some of New Zealand's leading artists, these exciting and inspirational years instilled in her a love of all things to do with art which continues to this day. A desire to paint full time following art school did not eventuate due to family commitments and she spent much of her working life in tourism management and marketing. Given her early background in the arts, Dorothy had a very strong sense of heritage, culture and the arts on the essence and character of a city or region. She sees arts/ culture as a cornerstone of a regional economy and would like Central Otago to grow as an arts destination, attracting not only domestic and international visitors but more artists to live in the region.

Ever since I holidayed in the Nelson and Golden Bay area 20 years ago and visited art and craft galleries there, I have had a vision of Central Otago becoming a renowned art destination. Joining the Arts Trust provides an opportunity for me to encourage and support this important facet of the Central Otago Art Strategy.

I am keen to see youth participation enhanced and an increased number of works of art in public spaces in our region. I bring an ability for creative thinking, enthusiasm, analysis of structure and process along with a wide range of community contacts and networks to the trust.

Roger retired in 2007 to Alexandra from a position of Senior Lecturer at Massey University. He has BSc (Hons), Masters, and PhD degrees in physics and electronic engineering. He is a keen cellist, playing with the Central Otago Regional Orchestra. He has played for productions by the Central Otago Regional Choir and the Alexandra Musical Society. He has performed with a number of orchestras in the North Island including the Manawatu Sinfonia and the Whanganui Opera Orchestra. He has given numerous performances with chamber music groups including as a member of the Manawatu Baroque Soloists.

As an enthusiastic writer, both fiction and nonfiction, Roger is keen to promote writing within the community. He is president of the Creative Writers Circle in Alexandra.

Roger is on the Vincent Community Board. He is also involved in a number of other community groups including REAP and ADMI.

Commencing with teaching, I became a Vocational Guidance Officer, Human Relations Manger and then became a Psychologist, practising this for 30 plus years. I am presently a part time builder, having always built garages, sheds and furniture.

I was a committee member of Anderson Park Art Gallery and I very much enjoy looking at art, sculpture and historic buildings - line and design dominate my visual world. I am a member of the Central Otago branch of the Creative Communities Assessment Committee which grants funding for art projects in Central Otago.

It is a privilege to be a member of CODAT, which endorses the fostering of the arts in the community, with emphasis on the emerging practitioner.

Amie has recently joined the Central Otago District Arts Trust as a representative of the Maniototo. Further information on Amie will be loaded soon. 

Alan is a retired lawyer, living in Bannockburn. He is passionate about all forms of artistic expression, in particular the visual arts of drawing, painting and sculpture. He is also interested in creative poetry and other forms of literature. Alan has had four joint exhibitions and one solo exhibition and therefore understands the creative process from inception to exhibition. He is Vice Chairperson of the Cromwell Heritage Precinct Board and a director of the Cromwell Rotary Club. Alan is a keen sportsman, amateur landscaper and gardener with two adult children and a partner who is experienced in written communications (a former journalist).