When Andre Chumko became Stuff and The Dominion Post's arts reporter in 2020, he recognised an opportunity to tell stories that weren't always being heard.

As one of only a handful of dedicated arts reporters in Aotearoa New Zealand, Andre was determined to cover the full breadth of the arts community, including the people, organisations and creative spaces making the arts more accessible.

"There was a greater willingness to share stories from marginalised voices, voices from communities who haven't historically had their voices heard before," he says. "It's not just me – it's a societal thing."

That commitment was recognised at Te Putanga Toi Arts Access Awards 2021, where Andre received the Arts Access Creative New Zealand Media Award.

The award is presented only when an individual demonstrates outstanding leadership and excellence in reporting on accessibility and the arts.

In announcing the award, Arts Access Aotearoa said:

"Andre Chumko demonstrates leadership and excellence in reporting about accessibility and the arts – in prisons, the professional arts sector and in the community arts sector. His work shines a light on the role of the arts in building a cohesive, engaged society. Thank you, Andre, The Dominion Post and Stuff for providing a voice that recognises Aotearoa's rich, diverse arts."

Giving visibility to overlooked stories

Within months of taking on the arts round, Andre had reported on the challenges facing community creative spaces, profiled Arts Access Accolade recipient Judith Jones and highlighted the work of Rue-Jade Morgan and his innovative arts programme at Otago Corrections Facility. He also covered Te Papa's New Zealand Sign Language mobile guide, the first of its kind in Aotearoa.

Together, these stories helped bring greater visibility to artists, communities and initiatives that were expanding access to the arts.

Andre believes thoughtful arts reporting helps people understand not only what is happening in the sector, but why it matters.

"The more people are having serious conversations about the arts and culture, the more it will be taken seriously."

Championing an inclusive arts sector

Andre's interest in the arts had been growing throughout his journalism career, but becoming a dedicated arts reporter gave him the opportunity to explore the people and ideas shaping the sector.

Alongside covering exhibitions, performances and cultural events, he developed a strong interest in stories about accessibility, community arts and the role creativity plays in strengthening society.

By recognising work that might otherwise receive little mainstream attention, Andre's reporting helped amplify the voices of disabled artists, community organisations and arts leaders across Aotearoa.

His reporting demonstrates the important role journalism can play in celebrating creativity, encouraging inclusion and ensuring more people see themselves reflected in the stories that are told.