Artsenta Is Seeking Expressions Of Interest For Its 40th Anniversary Symposium On Creativity And Wellbeing

Artsenta, celebrating its 40th anniversary on 17 June 2026, is inviting expressions of interest, from across the country and the world, for presentations at its symposium exploring the role of creativity in supporting and enhancing wellbeing.

To be held in Ōtepoti Dunedin in October 2026, the symposium will bring together the creative spaces, researchers, artists, educators, community leaders, and others who are passionate about, or interested in, how creative practices and spaces contribute to individual and collective wellbeing.

The event will foster dialogue between the creative, community and health sectors, and share some of the insights, experiences, and research from across Aotearoa New Zealand.

Artsenta Director Paul McLellan-Smith says, “This will be the first symposium of its kind in Te Waipounamu and we’re looking forward to building a diverse and inspiring programme for our community and the public.

“We want to bring together people who believe in the transformative power of creativity. The symposium will enable people working at the intersection of creativity and wellbeing to share innovative and inspiring stories, evidence, ideas and practice. We also want to raise awareness of the valuable work happening at creative spaces around the motu every day.”

Presentations themes may include topics such as:

• The relationship between creativity and mental health
• Creative practice and resilience
• Arts-based approaches to health and social care
• Community arts and social connection
• Indigenous perspectives on creativity and wellbeing
• Creativity in public health and policy
• Measuring and evidencing the impact of creativity on wellbeing

Contributions in a range of formats are welcomed, including:

• Short research presentations
• Practice-based case studies
• Panel discussions
• Participatory or performative contributions

Online presentations will be considered but there is a preference for in-person presentations.

Key details for people interested in submitting an expression of interest:

• A short description of your proposed contribution (200–300 words)
• Your preferred format (presentation, workshop, panel, etc.)
• A brief biography (100 words)
• To: director@artsenta.org

Key Dates

• Expression of Interest deadline: 31 May 2026
• Notification of acceptance: 30 June 2026
• Attendance registrations deadline: 30 September 2026
• Symposium date: 14 October 2026

About Artsenta

Artsenta was a visionary initiative instigated by Superintendent Julia Aranui-Faed as the Creative Expression Unit at Cherry Farm Mental Hospital in 1986. From the beginning it was established as an independent, stand-alone entity that would continue once Cherry Farm was closed down. Since then it has operated in five different locations in Dunedin and has touched the lives of thousands of people.

“Dunedin is very fortunate to have one of the most well equipped and long lived creative spaces in the country thanks to the many talented artists, staff and trustees who have contributed to our community, as well as the ongoing support of our core funders Health NZ and the Ministry of Social Development.”

For forty years, Artsenta has been quietly proving something powerful: creativity changes lives. Working alongside people experiencing mental health and addiction challenges, Artsenta has created a welcoming studio where art is not about perfection or performance – it is about expression, connection, and belonging. Every day, people walk through the doors carrying difficult stories and leave having made something: a painting, a poem, a friendship, a moment of calm, a sense of possibility.

Over four decades, thousands of artworks have been created, countless conversations shared, and many lives strengthened through the simple but profound act of making. Artsenta has witnessed how creative practice can build confidence, reduce isolation, support recovery, and offer new ways for people to understand themselves and the world around them.

© Scoop Media