CoCA

The Centre of Contemporary Art Toi Moroki, more commonly referred to as CoCA, has a long history as a contemporary art exhibition space and as an avid supporter of local artists. The gallery is situated just around the corner from Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu inside a purpose-built building which has significant architectural value itself; it is a major example of the Christchurch modernist style and well worth gazing at. The ever-changing exhibitions showcased here introduce locals and visitors to some of the most interesting art produced in and around Canterbury Waitaha.

Currently, CoCA exhibitions can be viewed in the ground floor Ō Papa Gallery. The upstairs exhibition space is hosting the pop-up Canterbury Museum while the museum’s own site is undergoing a major redevelopment. To find Ō Papa, following the gradually rising ramp from the foyer. 

Programming at CoCA is conducted through annual proposals, and the focus is on showcasing the work of artists with links to or based in Waitaha. The gallery is committed to presenting and supporting a wide range of practices, so visitors can expect to experience something different from each exhibition. In between exhibits, CoCA often hosts events, workshops and performance art shows. It also works together with local arts education institutions at Ara and Canterbury University, and endeavours to make space for student work as well.

CoCA is a charitable trust and is proud to offer its exhibitions to the public free of charge. But if you want to give them a helping hand, donations are welcomed and help support local artists as well as the important job the good people here are doing.

When visiting this special Ōtautahi spot, make sure to take note of the murals adding colour to two major walls of the building – one on the outdoor patio and one inside Lux Espresso. These murals have been created by local artists and will change every few years. As for the aforementioned cafe, it is as much of a destination as the gallery itself. Lux slings some of the best coffee in town accompanied by plenty of scrumptious tummy-fillers. It would really be a crime not to stop here while visiting CoCA.