Lissy and Rudi Robinson-Cole, creators of Wharenui Harikoa, discuss their journey from diverse backgrounds to crochet artistry. They explore ancestral ties, cultural identity, and the transformative impact of crochet workshops in prison. The conversation highlights the joy of collaboration, conveying warmth through creativity, and celebrating Māori art without limitations.

Jonjon Tolovae Cowley Lupo, an original member of No.3 Roskill Theatre and part of its core group of creatives, discusses the impact of art on addressing cultural displacement, the inception of No. 3, and the importance of dedicated creative spaces for emerging artists.

Lance Fepuleai, founder of Sky Pirates, shares insights on the value of hand-drawn designs, challenges of running a gallery, and the importance of self-belief for emerging artists. He discusses the impact of hip-hop on creativity, the success of Sky Pirates as a social enterprise, and the need for increased support in the creative community.

Amiria Puia-Taylor, a cultural and community arts manager discusses embracing indigenous culture in creativity, bridging urban and rural youth through mural arts and using art for healing. She also reflects on mobilisation through unity and embracing safety and love for community growth.

2023 Briefing prepared for the incoming Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage

This paper captures our advocacy work across 2022-23.

Artist and writer Van Mei discusses the intersection of art and activism, challenges in the arts sector during COVID-19, decolonization in the creative sector, and the importance of collective care and community support in empowering artists for societal impact.

An overview of Te Taumata Toi-a-Iwi's Creative Governance programme with learnings and insights.

Chantelle, Noah, and Aniwa Whaiapu from Te Manawa - a Māori artist-led collective to lead transformational change in the creative sector in Tāmaki Makaurau - discuss intergenerational collaboration, the power of community in Māori arts, and embracing cultural identity in a transformative Māori artist-led collective.

Comedian and actor Janaye Henry discusses breaking stereotypes in comedy, fostering diversity, and prioritising joy when making art. She emphasises the importance of creating diverse comedy lineups to dispel stereotypes and provide platforms for multiple voices to be heard.

A Business Case for Investment in Regional Arts, Culture and Creative Sector Development was produced in 2023 by the Regional Arts Network Aotearoa (RANA). Te Taumata supported the development of this business case which outlines the potential role of Regional Arts Organisations (RAOs) and advocates for sustained national investment in the establishment and ongoing funding of RAOs.

Auckland Pride Executive Director Julia Croft and Creative Director Nathan Joe discuss the fusion of art and community engagement, mentorship for emerging artists and queerness as a driving force for making. They also kōrero about the importance of creating dream spaces, rest as a form of resistance, and the transformative power of art in challenging societal norms.

Zoe Black and Jade Townsend discuss advocating for under-represented craft forms and navigating Indigenous artistic identity. They kōrero about the importance of supporting artists for creative freedom, embracing diverse perspectives in art, and the transformative impact of sisterhood and mutual support in the creative community.

Mapping the Auckland Funding Ecosystem for Ngā Toi – Culture, Creativity and the Arts’ research report (2023) reviews funders and funding for regional for arts, culture and heritage.

Award-winning performer Brady Peeti (Te Āti Haunui-a-Pāpārangi, Ngāti Maniapoto) shares insights on Māori culture in theatre, the importance of trans visibility, collaboration between First Nation cultures and passing on intergenerational knowledge.

Turning up the volume and sharing ideas on ways that we could create a more supportive sector environment

Oscar nominated producer Chelsea Winstanley and Ahi Films co-founder Courtney Mayhew discuss innovative storytelling, diversity challenges in film distribution, navigating cancel-culture with love and joy. They explore a vision for a global future for diverse narratives in film, fostering cultural shifts, and sharing excitement about collaboration and problem-solving in the industry.

Pere Wihongi, a musician, composer, voice actor, choreographer, and kapa haka performer, discusses embracing Te Reo Māori through music and advocating for authentic representation in kapa haka. Pere and Elyssia also discuss celebrating queer joy and resilience and embracing cultural identity as a superpower.