Ngā Wawata

We have initiated this project because we are concerned about the lack of support for the arts in Aotearoa. We are tuned into the different discussions that are taking place amongst our extended whānau, friends and peers. We hear the widespread frustration that is felt by our creative community, especially when our art making is undermined, undervalued and underestimated. The current state of affairs is further impacted by a lack of funding for the arts generally, poor distribution of existing resources and a culture of gatekeeping that only supports a few. E whai ana tātou i te hua o te whakawhānuitanga manaakitanga, kia tauawhitia ai tātou katoa!

Arts Makers Aotearoa Kāhui Ringatoi Aotearoa has identified the need for a diverse collective of makers to self-organise and create initiatives that can sustain the members of our creative community. We believe that working together is the surest path to meaningful change and radical imaginaries. This initiative is a response to the lack of movement by government, including inadequate consultation – it is time for art makers to shape the policies that directly affect our arts communities, our work and our wellbeing.

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Te Urupounamu

Manaaki / care
How can we ensure equitable inclusion and representation of art makers that reflects the diversity* of Aotearoa?

Āwhina / nurture
How are arts organisations, the education sector, local councils and central government engaging with and listening to the concerns of arts makers?

Tautoko / support
How can we support and sustain skill sharing and development within our arts communities?

Toitūtanga / sustainability
What does health and sustainability look like for you as an arts maker and us as an arts community?

Ako / education
How are the arts and arts makers valued within our education systems?

* In regards to cultural identity, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, age, ability status, social class, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, mental health status, and / or any other characteristic.