Creative Communities and WestREAP Art4Me
WestREAP Art4Me was one of the successful applicants to receive funding in the September 2022 round of Creative Communities Funding from Creative NZ. Art4Me and the Supported Art4Me groups support creative adults to work on visual arts projects with materials and tutor support. The funding was used throughout 2023.
Receiving funding through the Creative Communities scheme allowed the WestREAP Creative Spaces programme to run ceramics workshops, including pit firing, over three days. 10 Art4Me Artists participated, including two participants who travelled from Harihari to join the group. The course was delivered by Art4Me tutor Sam Duckor Jones and supported by Kate Gardener who provided their expertise, a kiln and location. Feedback on the workshops was really positive, with a participant commenting, “It’s always great to see how the Art4Me team support people (people either with or without higher needs) to create projects in such a friendly, genuine environment.” The programme is now a model for future programmes bringing together creative people from our community, some with special needs.
Funding was also used to purchase materials for the Supported Art4Me group in Hokitika, allowing artists to explore a range of different art mediums. This is a well-established group and a significant part of the participants’ lives. In this space, the supported artists can share their capabilities and build their skills.
Apply for funding
Applications for the March round of Creative Communities New Zealand Local Arts Funding Scheme are open now and close on Friday 5 April. If you have any questions, would like to know more about what type of projects can be funded or would like help completing an application, see our website or contact Sarah Brown, Community Development Advisor, 027 773 5236.
