Introducing our newest Harriet Friedlander Residency Recipient, Visual Artist Ayesha Green

Awarded every two years, Harriet’s enduring gift provides an artist aged between 30 and 40 with a grant of $100,000 to fully immerse themselves in New York City. This residency covers all living expenses and is not open for applications, making it a rare opportunity.

Ayesha Green's practice spans painting, drawing, and sculpture, exploring explores mātauraka māori, nation building and the relationship between empire and indigeneity. Her work often incorporates elements of Māori culture and examines the impact of colonisation, reflecting a deep commitment to social and cultural narratives. Her vibrant colour palettes and intricate textures invite viewers to engage in meaningful conversations about identity and history.

Ayesha shares her excitement about the residency: "Initially, I didn’t quite understand what was happening… but, the idea of spending long period of time in New York, and to feel like I actually live there, is just something that I never, ever had conceived would be a part of my life.” Ayesha says. “The residency is going to be huge for me because, in New Zealand, we miss out on seeing so much significant art due to our distance. Being able to go down the road and see works that changed movements and ideas is mind-blowing. It’s one thing to study them in books, but experiencing the texture and materials up close will really expand how I think about my practice. I’m ready for the overwhelming experience of New York – it's going to push me to think about my work on a global scale and explore how it fits into a bigger conversation, beyond just New Zealand."

Ayesha’s work has been showcased in major exhibitions across Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally, earning her widespread recognition and several prestigious awards. Ayesha was a recipient of the Arts Foundation Te Tumu Toi Springboard Award in 2020.

Previous recipients of the Harriet Friedlander Residency include Kalisolaite ‘Uhila, Lucien Johnson and Lucy Marinkovich, Miriam Smith and Christopher Pryor, Louise Potiki Bryant, Arthur Meek, Seung Yul Oh, and Florian Habicht.