Much-loved Devonport arts organisation DEPOT, Te Whare Toi, is marking 30 years of creativity with an exhibition that asks art lovers to trust their instincts. 'DEPOT Reveal – The BIG Little Exhibition' brings together original works by more than 180 emerging and established artists, local art students and well-known personalities connected to DEPOT, including Tim Finn, Gin Wigmore and Tom Abercrombie, who have all worked with DEPOT over the years through its galleries or recording studios.
The twist? Every artwork is displayed anonymously. Each of the seven- by nine-inch pieces is priced at $375, and buyers only discover the artist’s identity after they purchase it. You might take home a rising star’s first big sale, or a work by one of Aotearoa’s established artists.
“You choose the work because you love it, not because of the name attached to it,” says DEPOT director Amy Saunders. “That’s what makes the reveal so much fun.”
The exhibition is the centrepiece of DEPOT’s 30th anniversary fundraiser and opens with a ticketed gala on Wednesday 25 November, from 6pm to 8pm, offering guests first pick of the mystery works.
Over three decades, DEPOT has grown into a thriving creative hub spanning exhibitions across three gallery spaces, artist studios, professional recording studios and popular education and learning programmes. For 25 years it has also delivered Aotearoa’s flagship creative-employment programme, helping 200 young people into meaningful creative employment every year. Each sale from the fundraising exhibition will help DEPOT continue to create opportunities for artists, makers and musicians from the North Shore and across Tāmaki Makaurau.
“Reaching 30 years is a huge milestone for a not-for-profit arts organisation like ours, and we have been humbled by the overwhelming response from artists,” says Amy. “The arts funding environment is challenging right now, and organisations like ours increasingly need our communities to stand alongside us.” Aotearoa arts icon, Judy Darragh, agrees. “As someone who has worked closely with DEPOT over the years, I was thrilled to support this event and invest in the future of this important cultural institution.”
The exhibition will also feature small works including jewellery, sculpture and ceramics, alongside workshops and activities that bring people together through creativity.
“Buying a work, coming to the gala, or simply telling someone about DEPOT Reveal is a tangible way of supporting an independent arts organisation,” Amy adds. “It’s a really joyful way to support artists and celebrate the extraordinary creativity within our community.”
DEPOT is also looking for new supporters, patrons, donors, volunteers and creatives who believe in the power of creativity to positively contribute to society. If this sounds like you, or someone you know, please get in touch with director Amy Saunders at amy.saunders@depot.org.nz
EVENT DETAILS
Gala opening: Wednesday 25 November 2026, 6pm–8pm
Venue: DEPOT Artspace, 28 Clarence Street, Devonport
Full artist list: depot.org.nz
Mystery artworks: $375 each
On show: Wednesday 25 November to Wednesday 16 December
