The Outside-In Forum

Read this latest profile of Creative Space Gisborne.

Focus on creative potential

20 October 2008
Established in 2004, Creative Space Gisborne Charitable Trust runs a much-valued community studio and public gallery for the people of Tairawhiti.

 Creative Space offers a varied programme of arts and crafts workshops, run by established local artists and tutors. These cater mainly for adults throughout the week but the weekends are dedicated to families, children and young people. Creative Youth is a free arts workshop offered on Saturday mornings and attended by up to a dozen families.

Based in the centre of Gisborne, Creative Space provides activities for creative expression, learning and community involvement, particularly for people with mental health issues or a disability.

Its aim is to ensure people enjoy their experience at Creative Space, build their confidence and gain positive outcomes for themselves.

The friendly staff team delivers a valuable social support service that’s inclusive and suits individual needs. They work with members to help them achieve their goals by providing information, learning, networks and opportunities for personal and artistic development.
 
The “Stepping Stones” option for self-referral ensures that access to the centre is easy and joining in is fun.

Creative Space invites applications for membership and will do its best to accommodate those who it believes will gain the greatest benefit.

“We want to make sure that people are here to do art, are focussed on learning and keen to take part in the workshops we run,” says trustee Olwynne Craw.

She says that Creative Space can play a meaningful role in the journeys of its members to full independence, community participation, volunteering and employment.

At Creative Space, you can expect a safe, non-competitive and non-threatening environment. It’s a place where you’ll receive a warm welcome, mutual respect and consideration from others. The central focus is placed on creative potential – not your health.

The front of the Creative Space building features Gallery 79, which runs a regular programme of exhibitions.

You are welcome to contact Creative Space (T: 06-868 6731 E: ) or drop in at 79 Cobden Street, Gisborne.