Header image: KELSTON pump track, artwork by Damen and Ahu
Sam Morrison
Kua hinga te tōtara i Te Waonui-a-Tāne.
Sam set the tone for so many of our projects and ways of working. He saw the creative potential in things that other people barely noticed, and from this beautiful things developed. We think it’s pretty likely he’s the only person ever to invite someone to come to a creative space and do an artist talk about the temporary tarp structures they created in their garden. His interest never came from a place of mockery, but genuine curiosity. He was someone who believed strongly in the creative potential of everyone, and loved the spaces in between.
For those that don’t know, Sam was diagnosed with cancer at the end of 2023, and he passed away on Thursday. His funeral will be held at St. Matthew-in-the-City, corner Hobson and Wellesley Streets, from midday on Monday 13 May. He is lying in state at his whare at 112 Riversdale Road, where his partner Sophie and whānau are welcoming people to visit him there this weekend. All our love and thoughts are extended to them and his boys Harry, Milo, Manaia and Tāne.
Sam was one of the good ones. It’s surreal to be writing this but all we can do now is pay tribute, try to hold on to all those things he contributed, and be more like Sam in looking for the beautifully creative in the everyday.
Haere ra e hoa. xxx
‘Strong, resilient and inclusive communities where local identity, diversity and creativity are nurtured.’
Te Whau Pathway project
Te Whau Pathway will be the silver lining of the Whau river and the meeting of both Waitematā and Manukau Harbours. Forged across a time and place of significant cultural histories, this pathway invites people to rediscover themselves in the whenua and to honour the natural beauty of the awa. We are excited to partner with TWPP as the Community Art project leads.
OFF TRACK
OFF TRACK is a new public art destination situated between New Lynn and Avondale along the new NL2A pathway. Just as the name intends, OFF TRACK is underpinned by a kaupapa of serious play, off the beaten path.
Whau Community Arts brokering
Whau Community Arts Brokering is a community service supported by the Whau Local Board. Tapping into the existing creative community in the Whau area, the arts brokers support the presentation of a range of temporary arts activities and activation’s in our urban environment.
ALL GOODS | a space for the arts
ALL GOODS is a community art space that is flexible and accessible, with a focus on providing an inclusive homebase for people in the Whau to participate in the arts. It is a space to strengthen connections, develop ideas and share creative mahi. We welcome artists and people of all abilities and interests to run projects, hold workshops, kōrero, create and experience art.