Art & creativity, Have your say  |  10 Jun 2019

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People with a love for the arts in Christchurch have just one week left to make a submission on the city’s draft arts strategy.

Toi Ōtautahi–Christchurch Arts is the first strategy of its kind for the arts in Aotearoa because it has been developed in a partnership between major funding agencies, the local Christchurch arts sector and other key supporters.

A street art mural in Christchurch.

The draft arts strategy aims to make Christchurch the best place to live and be creative.

Toi Ōtautahi–Christchurch Arts focuses on supporting artists as well as recognising the arts are central to improving people’s wellbeing, sense of identity and connectivity; to activating and bringing life to the city; to attracting visitors; and to boosting the economy.

“This is an exciting time for the arts in Christchurch, and we’re really looking forward to seeing the opportunities that come out of collaborating” says Garth Gallaway, a Christchurch-based Arts Council member.

“The Toi Ōtautahi strategy partners are already thinking about innovative ways they could work on shared interests together through this new approach.”

Findings from Creative New Zealand’s 2017 New Zealanders and the arts research show 72 percent of Christchurch residents believe the arts have a vital role to play in rebuilding their city for the future.

The strategy outlines four pou ārahi (key themes) to reveal more treasures from Christchurch’s creative landscape:

  1. Tuakiri Identity – Supporting artists across all disciplines will help to tell the story of who we are – as individuals as communities, and as a city
  2. Hauora Wellbeing – Finding more ways to use arts to connect people and bridge social and cultural divides, to enable recovery, and to develop resilience in communities
  3. Auaha Creativity – Growing our thriving arts and creative sector will benefit the city and the local economy
  4. Kōkiri Leadership – Strong and collaborative leadership for the arts in Ōtautahi is crucial for creating an environment where artists can thrive and the sector can grow. 

Michael Prentice, another Christchurch-based member of the Arts Council, says “we’re encouraging anyone with a love for the arts in Christchurch to make a submission on the strategy, to show their support.

“The strategy requires new co-operative approaches to truly bring it to life, and it’s important that our partners and Christchurch residents understand the depth of support for the arts across our communities.”

Consultation on Toi Ōtautahi–Christchurch Arts closes at 5pm, Monday, 17 June 2019.