Creativity is a practical response to change. The creative process/impulse is fundamental to our collective evolution and is found in all forms of life. Creative practice works to empower the individual/group to realise this, and work with it in a positive and constructive way. Creativity is essential self nourishment, it is the very soul of our self worth. It is understood that building, performance, gardening and farming are creative activities. access hopes to encourage individuals to become aware of and realise their own creativity through awareness during the practice of their everyday activities.
Expression
access runs a series of creative modules that encourage clients to release their stories, and share their emotions, experiences and difficulties. It does this by offering different forms of expression as ways of communicating — voice / art / acting / dance and music. This expression is then developed, translated and implemented onto the landscape (environment) or appropriate space (see spaces).
Therapy
The process is fundamentally about the release of concern, anxiety and worry and transforming that into something tangible and positive. Allowing expression by peers in a comfortable environment is very empowering for both individuals and in turn, their community.
Practical
access's projects not only aim to result in a visible expression of the individuals concerned, but also a practical and useful solution for local and environmental needs. Entwined within that practical solution is the story and imagination of the group. It might be a building that resembles emotion, either through shape or mural, a well, the cover of which is a sculpture or a garden as a word or symbol of expression. Each project will integrate the group's stories with what they learn from the educational part of the program and produce something that is useful for their community.
Confidence
Throughout its projects access aims to develop confidence amongst its participants. The process and creativity that the workshops take the group through will encourage this. (See current ongoing project). It is very important that once the workshop and support has been provided that the ability to maintain what has been introduced remains, and that a vacuum is not left behind. Empowerment is key to sustainability. At every point possible locals / clients / students will be included in the teaching process. access works for and with its clients to encourage them to work independently of an organization once a project is complete.
Creative Practice
Integrated with education (community and environment) creative practice is the back bone to the structure of the workshops. The stages of this process are
access, 808a Outram Rd, Akina, Hastings, New Zealand
telephone — 0064 (0)6 876 05321
accesscharitabletrust@gmail.com
Website designed and created by Sam MacLaughlan and Jim Richter
