About Creative Spaces

Creative spaces are organisations where people facing barriers to participation can create art or engage in artistic activities like theatre, dance, circus, music, film, and creative writing. Participants include those who are Deaf or hard of hearing, have learning, neurological, or physical impairments, experience mental distress, face age-related vulnerability, or deal with cultural isolation.

These spaces offer the resources and support needed to foster self-expression, empowerment, and personal growth through the arts. Across New Zealand, creative spaces vary, some take an informal, drop-in approach, while others offer structured programmes and workshops in writing, visual, and performing arts.

Learn about the history of creative spaces.

Arts Access Aotearoa manages a national Creative Spaces Network. To join the network or connect with a regional group, please contact our creative spaces team.

Visit the Creative Spaces Network website