Recognising artists, organisations and programmes making important contributions to accessible and inclusive arts across Aotearoa.
Alongside the main recipients of Te Putanga Toi Arts Access Awards 2020, seven individuals, organisations and projects received Highly Commended certificates.
Their work spanned artistic achievement, creative spaces, accessible performance, community arts and Arts in Corrections.
Two multidisciplinary artists were recognised for creative practices that challenge perceptions and expand disability representation in the arts.
Dunedin
Liz Manson works across performance, film, sculpture and painting, using art to challenge stigma and perceptions around mental health.
"Liz Manson is Highly Commended for her impressive multidisciplinary practice and extensive career in visual arts and film. Her conceptual and innovative ideas are informed by and challenge perceptions of mental health."
Judges comments
Auckland
Pelenakeke Brown is an interdisciplinary artist whose work spans movement, writing, drawing and curation. Her career has included major arts organisations in Aotearoa, the United States and Europe.
"Pelenakeke Brown has an outstanding background of artistic achievement in New Zealand and internationally. Her award-winning work is innovative and exciting."
Judges comments
This award recognised a creative space supporting rangatahi through artistic learning, confidence and community connection.
Auckland
Since 2013, Kākano Youth Arts Collective has provided creative pathways for young people excluded from mainstream education, helping them build artistic skills, confidence and connection.
"Kākano Youth Arts Collective has the wow factor. Its mahi uses visual arts and creativity to develop and empower vulnerable rangatahi and acts as a beacon for positive change."
Judges comments
This award recognised an innovative use of technology to make orchestral performances more accessible.
Auckland
The orchestra invested in specialist audio equipment that allows audience members to adjust concert volume through headphones, supporting autistic patrons and people with hearing impairments.
"We love this innovative use of technology to make music more accessible. The project has the potential to support a wide range of access requirements."
Judges comments
This award recognised leadership in using arts, culture and tikanga as rehabilitative tools within a corrections environment.
Hawke’s Bay Regional Prison
Leonie Aben was recognised for her leadership in using arts and culture as rehabilitative tools. Through whakairo, kōwhaiwhai, raranga and kapa haka, men are supported to reconnect with whakapapa and cultural identity.
"Leonie Aben shows outstanding commitment, innovation and leadership, and has built valuable partnerships with local iwi to support the men."
Judges comments
This award recognised an inclusive dance project that embedded accessibility into its design and performance.
The Art of Observation, Wellington
WIDance created an inclusive dance work inspired by artworks, with integrated audio description, relaxed performances and NZSL interpretation built into the experience.
"Accessibility was integral from the outset. Audio description, a relaxed environment and NZSL interpretation were thoughtfully interwoven into this innovative work."
Judges comments
This award recognised a collaborative arts and wellbeing programme supporting women involved with the justice system.
Wellington
Home Ground uses theatre, photography, creative writing and music to support women who have experienced incarceration or are involved with the justice system.
"This innovative programme uses creativity to support women in the justice system to reconnect with themselves, their communities and their strengths."
Judges comments
Meet the main award recipients and watch the NZSL-translated recording of Te Putanga Toi Arts Access Awards 2020.
View the 2020 awards