Eight visionary artists have been announced as 2025 Laureate recipients, as the Arts Foundation celebrates 25 years. Among them, award-winning filmmaker and WIFT member Roseanne Liang.
Arts Foundation Te Tumu Toi Laureates are practising New Zealand artists recognised for exceptional achievement in their field, a world-class body of work, and a lasting contribution to Aotearoa’s culture and communities.
Each Laureate demonstrates artistic excellence, a deep commitment to their craft, and the
potential for continued impact.
This year’s Laureates join a 137-strong alumni of remarkable artistic voices – a legacy of creative excellence spanning 25 years. Collectively, the 2025 Laureates will receive $400,000 (a $50,000 gift each), funded entirely through the generosity of arts supporters from across Aotearoa. The gift is no strings attached – given in recognition of their outstanding contribution to date, and as a nudge to keep on creating (in whatever way they see fit!).
Roseanne Liang received the Dame Gaylene Preston Filmmaker Award, and the selection panel had this to say about Liang's impressive contribution already to New Zealand cinema:
“Roseanne’s fearless storytelling has placed kick-ass women at the centre of cinema, while championing equity and Asian voices on screen.”
Huge congratulations to Roseanne - well deserved!