Artists & Groups

The Central Otago Art Society was established in the 1970s in Alexandra, beginning with a small group of artists who came together to hold annual exhibitions. The first exhibition took place in the old Courthouse building - now the Courthouse Café.

Today, COAS continues to foster and support the visual arts within the community. Membership has grown to over 100 artists who collectively contribute to two major exhibitions each year:

The Easter Exhibition in Clyde, held alongside the Wine and Food Festival and the Blossom Festival Exhibition, the Society’s premier event, attracting up to 200 entries and providing a vibrant social occasion to celebrate and support the visual arts in Central Otago.

Workshops & Learning

In addition to exhibitions, COAS offers a range of hands-on workshops and educational programmes. These practical classes cater to all skill levels and are held regularly, providing opportunities for artists to develop their skills in a supportive environment.

Emerging Artists Scholarship

In 2025, COAS established an annual Emerging Artists Scholarship to support and nurture new talent in the visual arts within the Central Otago region.

Value: $5,000 NZD

Eligibility: Emerging visual artists with a connection to Central Otago

Purpose: To support professional development and strengthen connections between emerging artists and the wider community

Get Involved

New members are always welcome. Whether you’re an experienced artist or just starting out, COAS offers a supportive and inspiring creative community.

• Disciplines:
• Collective