This is how one entrant from the USA described New Zealand’s World of Wearable Art Awards.

From humble beginnings as a promotion for a rural art gallery in Nelson 21 years ago, WOW has blossomed to become one of the leading arts events in New Zealand and increasingly on the international design and fashion calendar.

WOW skillfully weaves fashion, theatre, performance art, and music into a spectacular and unique world-class event. It is a cross between Cirque du Soleil and a Salvador Dali painting brought to life.

The number of people attending has doubled since 2005, and each year WOW pumps $10m into the local economy.

BrandNew salutes WOW as a true example of an exciting experiential brand, helping place New Zealand as a world leader in creative excellence.