The most fabulous show in Raglan is back, with 2 live shows planned for Saturday 7 June!

Entries are invited in the categories below.

Avant-Garde – Open Section

Dare to break boundaries and defy convention in our Avant-Garde open section. This is your invitation to push the limits of wearable art, creating bold, experimental pieces that challenge perception and ignite imagination.

Explore the unexpected, embrace the unconventional, and let your creativity run wild. From surreal silhouettes to radical textures, this is your chance to reimagine the possibilities of fashion as art. Be fearless. Be visionary. Be avant-garde.

Kaitiakitanga – Open Section

Explore the essence of Kaitiakitanga, where wearable art becomes a powerful expression of guardianship and the connection between humanity, nature and culture. Celebrate the beauty of the land, sea, and sky while honoring the call to protect and preserve in a world that needs your voice.

Let your creations tell stories of care, resilience, and harmony. Whether using natural materials, recycled treasures, or innovative designs, embody the spirit of kaitiaki—bold, thoughtful, and transformational.

All Things Shiny – Open Section

Dazzle us in the All Things Shiny open section, where light and brilliance take centre stage! This is your chance to create wearable art that shimmers, glows, and gleams in every way imaginable.

From metallics to sequins, mirrors to jewels, and everything in between, let your designs reflect radiance and creativity. Play with textures, colors, and materials that catch the light and capture attention. Make it bold, make it luminous—make it shine!

Mythical Creatures – Childrens’ Section (under 13s only)

Step into a world of wonder and magic in the Mythical Creatures children’s section! This is your chance to bring legendary beings to life through wearable art, inspired by the wildest corners of imagination.

From majestic dragons to shimmering mermaids, mischievous fairies to noble unicorns, let your designs transport us to enchanted realms. Use bold colours, playful textures, and fantastical details to capture the magic of mythical beings.

Keen to enter Art to Wear 2025? Click on the headings below for more information. If you can’t find what you are looking for, contact the Old School Arts Centre Team on (07) 825 0023 or email: info@raglanartscentre.co.nz

How do I enter?

You can complete an online form or pick up a paper copy from the Old School office.

Can I make something with my friends/family?

Yes! We welcome collaborative pieces.

What information do I need to complete the form?

The form will ask you for your details, plus the section you are entering, the title of your piece and the name of your model. If you haven’t ironed out the details yet, just fill in whatever you can.

In order to finalise your entry you will have to provide all the required information plus a photograph of your entry on a model or mannequin or a sketch, and a numbered list of pieces included. We will also need a short 50 word description which will be used in the commentary as your piece is presented at the show – be creative and concise! You are welcome to provide an additional longer description including details of materials, processes and inspiration for the judges to consider.

What are the prizes?

Details will be provided closer to the time. Cash and/or awesome local product prizes are awarded to all section finalists, PLUS:

      Top Model –  Adult and Children

      People’s Choice Award

      Creative Youth Award

      Supreme Award – Adult and Children

I can’t decide which section to enter! When do I need to let you know?

The entry forms will ask you for the section you intend to enter and the title of your work. It really helps planning to know the section you are entering as soon as you have decided, however if you’re not sure you can leave it blank for now. The title is less crucial, we just need to know by the 22 May.

Do you have any requirements for the artworks?

Garments and accessories must be clearly named and must be strong enough to withstand rehearsals and shows.

Please bear in mind that it is important that your model in their costume is able to fit through the door (which is 2m high and 1m wide), move well and safely up a ramp and along a 1 metre wide catwalk, and avoid injuring the audience (the front row will be seated very close to the edge of the raised catwalk).

Raglan is a Zero Waste Community & judging will reflect this – be aware that judges are likely to favour pieces which feature natural materials and strong upcycled elements rather than pieces which rely on bought elements, particularly plastic.

What is the entry fee? Do I get a ticket for the show?

Art to Wear has considerable expenses to cover and we charge a small entry fee to help cover our costs – $15 per entry. To ensure you have the opportunity to watch the show, entrants will have early access to buy up to two show tickets before they go on sale to the general public. Ticket bundles are available for schools, please enquire.

How about school entries?

Please let us know that you are planning to enter and provide us with an idea of how many entries you expect to have – we understand that you might not be sure or have full details till later on, and it really helps our planning if you can give us an idea of what to expect as soon as possible. Full details, photo etc must be provided by the closing date Thursday 22 May.

It’s also helpful to know if you plan anything exceptional such as a large group of models.

We will offer a discounted bundle offer for schools on show tickets.

What dates do I need to bear in mind?

Entries open Thursday 16 January and close Thursday 22 May. All information and entry fee must be received by Thursday 22 May. Artworks must be dropped off at the Town Hall Supper Room Friday 6 June 3-6pm. Full dress rehearsal will be 10am Saturday 7 June (gold coin for support crew entry and photo opportunities). Shows will be Saturday 7 June 2pm matinee and 7pm with awards presentation.

Tickets for the shows will go on sale mid-May – watch this space!

When will tickets for the show go on sale?

Tickets for the shows will go on sale mid-May – watch this space!

Can I make an artwork for my child to wear?

Yes, certainly! This must be entered in one of the Open sections though – the childrens’ section is for artworks created by under-13s only.

How much help can I give my child/student?

The artwork must be designed and created by the child. It is acceptable to provide assistance in figuring out technical aspects of the artwork but not to do it yourself. If your child requires substantial support, you can enter as a group in one of the Open sections.

Does my child have to enter in the Children’s Section?

No – children can enter any section. Their work will be judged alongside other entries in that category, not specifically as the work of a child.

Do you have any other advice?

Yes! We think these tips from Lara Sweetman are really helpful Thanks Lara for allowing us to share.

  • Give yourself at least eight weeks from when you start thinking about your design to finished costume.
  • Brainstorm, search the internet for images, sketch and build up a design board
  • Think about what story you are trying to tell and how it can have a big impact on stage
  • Start sourcing materials everywhere you go, like Kaahu’s Nest, op shops, your own house, your family’s and friends’ sheds.
  • Think about the functionality of the design and test the technical aspects work before adding the creative flourishes.
  • Practice moving in the costume and look at how it moves.
  • Collaborate with people who can support with technical skills.
  • Be flexible about your design and don’t be afraid to make changes.
  • Get feedback. Your costume will benefit from a fresh set of eyes, and add extra WOW factor.
  • Plan and practice makeup, hair and choreography.
  • Ask a confident friend to model your costume if you are not comfortable on stage.
  • Think about how to utilise the stage for audience impact.
  • Make sure the costume is robust and strong. Sometimes hot glue is not enough to hold it all together for the rehearsals and shows.

Please note: Selected Artworks will be exhibited at the Old School for two weeks following show. *Raglan Community Arts Council is not responsible for the cost of return of artwork. The entry form constitutes permission for the submitted artwork & model to be filmed/photographed & images used by Raglan Art to Wear/Raglan Community Arts Council for future event promotion, archive, documentation & reports to sponsors & funding bodies.

Raglan Art To Wear Biennial 2025 is presented by Raglan Community Arts Council.