Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about Arts Access Aotearoa's activities and how we can work together. If you have further questions, contact us.
What does Arts Access Aotearoa do?
We are a national organisation providing access to the arts for individuals and communities facing barriers. Our work is structured into five programmes:
- Access and Participation
- Community Development
- Advocacy and Profile
- Information Centre
- Arts in Corrections
What is a creative space?
Creative spaces are community-based places where people with limited access can make art. Materials and tuition are often provided for free or at low cost. Some are informal, while others offer structured programmes. Explore our directory of creative spaces.
How is Arts Access Aotearoa governed?
We are a charitable trust established in 1995, governed by a board of up to eight trustees. We also have two patrons: founding patron Mel Smith and patron Her Excellency, The Right Honourable Dame Cindy Kiro, GNZM, QSO, Governor-General of New Zealand (Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Kahu and British descent).
Who does Arts Access Aotearoa represent?
We work for and with individuals and communities in New Zealand who face barriers in getting access to the arts, either as creators or as audience members, gallery and museum visitors. This includes people with intellectual, physical and sensory impairments, as well as people with lived experience of mental ill-health. We also facilitate the arts as a tool supporting the rehabilitation of prisoners.
Where does Arts Access Aotearoa get its funding?
Creative New Zealand is Arts Access Aotearoa's core funder. We also have a contract with the Department of Corrections to deliver a prison arts advisory service. In addition, we receive annual funding from Wellington City Council to provide services to Wellington stakeholders.
We apply for funding to philanthropic trusts and city councils to support one-off projects or running costs. Another source of “income” is in-kind, where businesses or organisations offer their services at discounted rates or at no cost. Read about our funders and supporters.
Does Arts Access Aotearoa provide funding?
No. However, we may be able to umbrella groups and organisations if the project is a good fit with our strategic objectives.
Can Arts Access Aotearoa help me get funding?
We do not have direct influence over funding bodies, but we can sometimes provide letters of support for applications.
