Alan Clay is a Whanganui-based author, grandfather, campaigner and award-winning filmmaker, with a passion for the arts and a strong belief in the importance of community. He has a long career in the arts, with 40 years of experience working in Aotearoa and around the world.

"As a country we have come to understand the value of community through the crises we have experienced over the past few years which have served to bring us together into this team of 5 million."

He is a strong supporter of the Green Party's arts policy which argues that our strong creative sectors have intrinsic value to society and significant economic potential. "A strong arts sector strengthens community by bringing people together to share experiences and providing opportunities for creative self-expression which builds rapport and understanding."

Alan is a father of three children and grandfather to five grandchildren. He is the son of the late Dame Marie Clay, who became the first New Zealander of the Year for her services to education and children's reading. His interest in people and their growth was initially kindled by helping her document her literacy studies and has developed through his community arts work.

You can get in touch with Alan at [email protected]