Happily, the Depot Artspace is not in this category. Depot Artspace is a community art gallery that really does work.
It has swung the other way and is an energy-rich, inspiring place buzzing with talent and genuine effort. OK, there is an element of amateurism here, but it is wisely contained in a small gallery, where emerging (or wistful) artists can share in safety.
There are two main galleries (one large, one not) that host a regularly-changing menu of art by established and new artists; experimental and more traditionally-inclined artists; solo and groups of artists.
Though many are from the North Shore, there’s no regimented border patrol stopping artists from other cities exhibiting here.
Artist studios, a recording studio, sound-proof music room, and a workshop space for performances and classes, ensure a steady flow of visitors. Thus, The Depot's philosophy of encouraging creativity in the community works in reality. People actually use it.
This gallery is, in itself, an artwork. Bits stick out from the façade—faces, tools, a paintbrush holding a sign.
Without a shadow of a doubt, the Depot Artspace in Devonport, Auckland, is about art—and an example of successful community collaboration.