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A GALLERY dedicated to exhibiting indigenous New Zealand contemporary art is to open central Wellington this week featuring works of established and emerging artists.

Kura Gallery on Allen Street aimed to break the traditional gallery mould of the stark white walled gallery in favour of a more intimate space, gallery partner Moana Eruera said.

"We are trying to create a more intimate relationship between the viewer and the art".

"We are getting away from the white walls, bright lights and unimaginative displays for a more dark and mysterious feel."

A blacked-out celling, plenty of freestanding art and background music were part of achieving this ambience, he said.

Mr Eruera hoped Kura would help lift the profile of contemporary indigenous art in the capital, where he said there was Some reluctance to, take a punt on the more risky contemporary artists.

Kura Gallery was established in Taupo two years ago and had made a significant impact on the Indigenous art scene in the area, Mr Eruera said.

Artists exhibiting at the gallery Include Wellingtonian Ross Hemera, head of basic design at Massey University, and Kura Puke, a visiting lecturer at Massey University.

As well as hung art, the gallery would exhibit carvings, jewellery and weaving.