Connecting and supporting creativity across Ruapehu
The Ruapehu Arts Advisory Group has been established to strengthen the relationship between Council and the district’s creative community.
The group is artist-led and focused on building stronger connections with creatives across Ruapehu, supporting greater visibility for the arts, and identifying opportunities to bring creativity into Council projects, public spaces, and community initiatives.
Artist representatives Deb Brock and Kate Milham are helping lead this work by connecting with artists, groups, venues, and communities across the district to better understand local creative practice, ideas, and aspirations.
What the group is here to do
The Arts Advisory Group aims to:
- strengthen links between Council and Ruapehu’s creative community
- represent the perspectives and aspirations of local creatives
- support creativity across all disciplines
- improve access to practical Council-related information
- help identify opportunities that benefit artists and creative communities
Initial focus
One of the first areas the group is exploring is how Council-owned spaces could be used to showcase Ruapehu’s creative talent.
This could include places such as:
- libraries
- community halls
- vacant buildings
- public walls
- parks and reserves
The group is keen to hear ideas about how these spaces could be used to support local artists and creative activity.
Supporting artists with better information
Council is also developing this webpage as a simple resource for Ruapehu’s creative community.
Over time, this page will provide:
- information about the Arts Advisory Group and its kaupapa
- updates on current work and opportunities
- practical guidance for artists navigating Council processes
- examples such as how to request access to a public wall for a mural
The aim is to make it easier for creatives to find relevant Council information and connect with opportunities.
An inclusive approach
The Arts Advisory Group is committed to representing the full breadth of creative practice in Ruapehu, including visual arts, music, performance, writing, digital practice, and more.
The group takes an open, inclusive, and collaborative approach and believes the arts in Ruapehu will flourish when people work together, share ideas, and build stronger connections across the district.
Get involved
If you are an artist, part of a creative group, manage a venue, or have ideas about how arts and creativity can be supported in Ruapehu, the group would like to hear from you.
Your ideas and feedback will help shape future opportunities for artists across the district.
Contact any Arts Advisory Group member.
John Chapman 021 137 5952
Deb Brock 021 258 0078
Kate Milham 022 150 6900
Arts Advisory Group members
