In a compelling conversation with Mark Amery on RNZ’s Culture 101 programme, Kim Morton, Strategic Director of Ōtautahi Creative Spaces, delves into the transformative power of art in mental health and wellbeing.

Listen to the conversation between Mark Amery and Kim Morton.

In the aftermath of the Christchurch earthquakes, Kim founded Ōtautahi Creative Spaces in Christchurch's Philipstown, and it’s become a vibrant hub where art and healing intersect.​

Kim emphasises the centre's holistic approach, offering mentorship, exhibitions, professional development and collaborative projects. These are facilitated in an environment designed to honour the cultural identities, emotional wellbeing and lived experiences of each individual.

A standout initiative, Sanctuary, saw rangatahi at Christchurch's central library, Tūranga, infusing it with creativity – from tufted rugs by Muslim youth to acrylic artworks inspired by tukutuku panels.

“As a result of Sanctuary, our rangatahi feel right at home there and are able to access all the incredible creative resources the library has,” Kim says. 

She believes we need to get more creative in how we approach mental health. “Art can change and even save lives.” She advocates for more innovative approaches to mental health, positioning creativity at the forefront of wellbeing strategies.​

Ōtautahi Creative Spaces was one of the many spaces to benefit from a three-year investment from Manatū Taonga Ministry for Culture and Heritage, giving creative spaces stability and increased support.

Read about Ōtautahi Creative Spaces and other spaces in Canterbury that received three-year funding from Manatū Taonga. Their stories demonstrates the impact of the funding and what they were able to achieve.