Neueröffnung Hundertwasser Art Centre

Hundertwasser Art Centre opens on 20 February 2022, 10am (GMT+12)

Hundertwasser Art Centre with Wairau Māori Art Gallery is an original Hundertwasser architecture project. Absolute rationalism, geometric straight lines and the uniformity of modern architecture is abandoned in favour of new values like uniqueness, romanticism, individuality, creativity, especially creativity in harmony with nature. Hundertwasser created houses in which the creativity of nature meets human creativity. In keeping with his philosophy, the Hundertwasser Art Centre restores territories to nature with spontaneous vegetation, tree tenants and an afforested roof.

Wairau Māori Art Gallery is home to the finest examples of contemporary Māori art and is designed to promote and enhance Te Ao Māori. It is the first unique and dedicated public Māori Art Gallery in Aotearoa New Zealand.

German architect Heinz M. Springmann and Grant Harris of HB Architecture in New Zealand brought to life Hundertwasser’s vision. Skilled artisans, craftspeople, engineers, builders, technical experts and community leaders worked together for two years to realise the unique structure. Led by Hātea Art Precinct Trust, they overcame a series of impossible obstacles along the way, including a construction cost overrun and the impact of Covid-19.

The launch of the Hundertwasser Art Centre realises a shared dream that has transformed the lives of everyone who participated in its creation. The visionary architectural project was made possible through the commitment of a determined community over many years of fundraising and it is supported by the Hundertwasser Non-Profit Foundation in Vienna.