New national art prize brings top artist to Manawatū
October 20, 2025
A significant national art prize has been launched in Manawatū, with the inaugural recipient named as multi-media artist Emily Hartley-Skudder.
The $40,000 Fair Trust Art Prize aims to bring top artists to Manawatū. It is funded by the Estate of Dr Eileen Fair, which recently became a Charitable Trust, and is delivered in partnership with Te Manawa Museum of Art, Science and Heritage.
Dr Eileen Fair, who passed away in January 2024, left instructions to establish the annual prize. A spokesperson for her Trust said that Dr Fair wanted to support a flourishing contemporary arts scene in Manawatū by bringing artists at the top of their field to the region.
“Eileen was a strong, independent woman; passionate and determined, with an eye for alternative and contemporary thinking. We know that she would be delighted to see Emily named, and we are looking forward to continuing her legacy through the Prize.”
Te Manawa Senior Manager Curatorial & Collections, Sian van Dyk, believes the collaboration between the Eileen Fair Charitable Trust and the museum is a natural one.
“Dr Fair wanted to create opportunities for established artists to create new work, and she saw the importance of high-quality art being accessible to the people of Manawatū,” says van Dyk. “As a part of Eileen’s vision, Te Manawa can offer space and support to professional artists, as well as an avenue to connect them with our community. We are honoured to be working with the Trust to deliver this life-changing prize to such a hard-working and interesting artist.”
The Trust’s spokesperson says that they are excited about supporting Emily Hartley-Skudder, who is a bold, highly regarded artist based in Wellington.
“Emily is known for her vibrant, detailed oil paintings and immersive installations, which feature elements of retro bathrooms. She creates worlds where everyday objects, gendered spaces, and nostalgia collide.”
“I am so grateful to be the first recipient of the Fair Trust Art Prize,” says Hartley-Skudder.
“My exhibition will explore the historic women’s restroom ‘Ladies Rest’ in Te Marae o Hine (The Square) in Palmerston North.
“The story of the Palmerston North Ladies Rest space is complex; not only from a historical or architectural perspective, but from a social perspective. The research I am undertaking allows me to highlight the value of ordinary, public and private spaces in society and the gender divisions attached to them.”
Hartley-Skudder’s exhibition will open at Te Manawa Art Gallery and Museum in August 2026.
“While exhibiting my work at Te Manawa will be a great experience, I am also looking forward to delivering the community engagement element of the Prize. I want to use the exhibition to further shine a light on the everyday conveniences we take for granted and encourage audiences to consider what a safe space to rest really means.”