What writing do we need? New Commissions Writers publication launch
Join the 2026 New Commissions Writers for a panel discussion marking the launch of four new texts of cultural criticism, with Anoushka Coulter, Rahul, Kieran Mclean, and Roro.
At the beginning of the programme, the writers were asked this question. After a year of reading, discussion, research, writing and editing, they return to it together. What would they say now?
Following the panel, stay for drinks, conversation and to pick up a copy of the printed collection.
This programme is presented with the support of our strategic partner the Chartwell Trust. This exhibition is presented with the support of our strategic partner the Chartwell Trust. The programme participants were also supported by The Karekare House Artist Residency and Eden Arts Trust.
WHAT TO EXPECT
This event is free.
This event is held in the gallery at Artspace Aotearoa.
This location is accessible.
This event will be seated and microphones will be used.
Light refreshments will be available.
Biographies
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Roro is a writer based in Tāmaki Makaurau. Their work braids the theoretical, the lyrical, and the personal to think through the strange textures of contemporary life. At its centre is a preoccupation with crossing thresholds, and how language might reach toward the very experiences that exceed its limits. Recent writing has appeared in arts publications and gallery exhibitions, and they regularly self-publish on Substack. They have previously held a residency with RM Gallery. Alongside their Chartwell Trust New Commissions residency, they are currently also developing Edge of Heaven, a long-form essay on mystical practice and Internet sexuality.
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Rahul is a Fijian and Pākehā writer from Auckland. You can find him on Instagram, @charanklein.
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Anoushka Coulter is currently completing her honours year at Whitecliffe College of Art and Design. Being both a writer and a painter, the two disciplines are locally informed. Her paintings depict the cityscape of Tāmaki Makaurau and her writing for Art New Zealand and ArtNews feature contemporary exhibitions. Her specific interest is the theory of Hauntology and ideas of futurism, influenced by writers such as Franco ‘Bifo’ Berardi, Mark Fisher and Jaques Derrida.
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Kieran McLean is a Marxist writer and a member of People Against Prisons Aotearoa. He used to be a journalist and now writes essays instead. He writes a regular blog that includes art criticism and personal essays.