Director’s Report

The Physics Room is a platform for the presentation of contemporary art and ideas that encompasses a range of integrated activities including exhibitions, publications and performances. Our aim is to create a supportive and responsive environment for arts practitioners to develop new work and new directions through a range of local, national and international projects.

The 2004 programme comprised a range of activities, including 14 exhibitions in the gallery, 11 Kiosk projects and a number of public programmes. Acknowledging the commitment we have to supporting artists, The Physics Room contributed over $22,000 in artist fees throughout the year. This was made possible by Creative New Zealand’s core financial support for The Physics Room, supplemented and sustained by sponsorship, grants and donations from foundations and businesses. We are immensely grateful to Creative New Zealand for their consistent support over the last eight years. Their contribution to the organisation has been significant, not only through funding and training opportunities, but also through advocacy and support.

The Physics Room has continued to build strong working relationships with other organisations and businesses in the community, which assists us in the presentation of our programme. 2004 saw the continuation of our relationship with the Art & Industry Biennial with the presentation of Natalie Robertson’s exhibition Cuz, and the establishment of the National Drawing Award in partnership with Artspace, Auckland. The National Drawing Award was a great opportunity for us to work with a like-minded institution with a similar dedication to supporting the development of contemporary art in this country. The project was assisted by a range of businesses, including Telecom NZ Ltd, Sweeny Vesty Ltd, Armacup Maritime Services Ltd, Mitchener Cammell Ltd and local designer Aaron Beehre, to all of whom we are very grateful.

2004 saw a number of staff changes. Director Rosemary Forde headed abroad in October after four years at The Physics Room. During her time here she enriched the organisation with her strong leadership skills and considered programming. Jess Johnson, Programme Coordinator, also moved away after two years with The Physics Room. Jess was replaced by Zoe Roland, who subsequently took maternity leave in November. The time and energy that each of these staff members contributed to The Physics Room has had a significant impact on the organisation. We wish them all the best for the future. I came in to the role of Director in November after Rosemary’s departure, and Vanessa Coxhead took up the Programme Coordinator position in December.

The Physics Room Board has continued to develop its focus on the strategic direction of the organisation. Each Board member brings a wealth of skills and experience to the organisation, which in turn helps shape its direction. We are grateful for the dedication and commitment that the Board bring to The Physics Room. There were some changes to the Board in 2004 - Robyn Voyce resigned in March, and Hermione Bushong resigned in October - many thanks to Robyn and Hermione for their contributions during their time as Board members.

In addition to the Board, the Curatorial Committee make an important contribution to the overall programming. In 2004 the Committee consisted of Emma Bugden, Megan Tamati-Quennell, Sean Kerr and Chris Chapman - many thanks to the committee for their input.

Finally, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all the artists, curators and writers who contributed to the programme in 2004. It is your vision and commitment that makes The Physics Room exciting. Director’s Report

Danae Mossman

This essay originally appeared in

The Physics Room Annual 2004
ISBN 0-9582651-2-7

Order your copy today from The Physics Room !
View order form