Testimony
"Working alongside Ōtautahi Creative Spaces was incredibly enriching for my practice as well as my professional development. I learnt how to connect with a wide range of artists from different backgrounds and with different needs and ways of engaging.
The kaupapa of the space was enriching, encouraging and nurtured my own creativity in ways that I struggle to get as an individual practitioner. Being immersed in their creative space allowed and encouraged me to be gentle and hold space for others as well as myself. As much as I was bringing expertise to the space, I was also learning and benefiting from being in it.
There is a real sense of community and support at Ōtautahi Creative Spaces which has built up over time, yet they welcomed me with open arms, hearts and cups of tea." Audrey Baldwin was contracted for 8 months as lead artist, producer and curator of Sanctuary, our rangatahi takeover of Tūranga
Audrey Baldwin
“From the beginning, the relationship with Henni and Kim and the wider Ōtautahi Creative Spaces team was warm and welcoming. Communication was easy and timely and it was clear from early meetings their passion and commitment to the project showcasing the work of the artists involved and helping the public learn more about the kaupapa of Ōtautahi Creative Spaces.
A highlight of the collaboration was witnessing the artists at the exhibition opening see their works exhibited in the gallery space, and to see the reactions of their close friends and whānau. This experience showed the value in organisations such as Ōtautahi Creative Spaces providing opportunities for young artists to exhibit their works in a public space. With the right support and knowledgeable staff, it was a pleasure to see and learn about the direct impact this opportunity had on the artists. It also showed the outcomes of a safe, welcoming and creative environment that Ōtautahi Creative Spaces create at their base and when out on trips.” Christchurch City Libraries was our collaboration partner for Sanctuary, our rangatahi take-over of Tūranga.
Christchurch City Libraries
“At Rātā Foundation, we believe participating in arts and cultural activities is a means of enhancing health and wellbeing. Ōtautahi Creative Spaces helps to remove barriers for people with mental health challenges by providing a space for people to explore their creativity, while building connection and a sense of belonging in the community.”
Rātā Foundation
“There’s nothing in the community like Ōtautahi Creative Spaces for our young people. Getting to Unleashed is one of the most crucial parts of their recovery. It helps people to branch out in their wellbeing in a way that’s safe and comfortable, but stretching them in a way that’s manageable.
A lot of our rangatahi are amazing artists – so it provides a space for them to reconnect with that, and get back to that thing they love. Opportunities like Unleashed are priceless. Whether you are unwell or not, you can still go along and be warmly welcomed, and you’ll be among friends. It gives people something to get up for, something to look forward to, within a safe and predictable routine.
It’s been an amazing catalyst for a whole lot of other changes, with rangatahi more confident to branch out into other social settings.” Tōtara House is a Te Whatu Ora early intervention in psychosis service for young people.
Tōtara House, Te Whatu Ora