Brown’s Budget Blackmail Bluff
The Mayor didn't even mention the arts as Auckland Council's budget debate got serious. Verity Johnson explains why she reckons that's a good thing and asks are we seeing the real Wayne Brown?
"The Essence Of Creativity Is Healing"
From ward of the state to Honorary Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit - Fa’amoana Luafutu tells The Big Idea about his incredible journey through the arts all the way to the King's Birthday Honours List.
What Art Making Should Be About
Respected arts thought leader Jack Gray makes a stand for the importance of creative potential being valued above political sustainability.
Challenging The Tortured Artist Syndrome
Do we have to torture ourselves to create our best work? Why there needs to be a purpose to any pain - and how to keep it under control.
Arts Education In Aotearoa - Three Causes For Hope
One arts educator is determined to highlight the positive amid the constant criticism of how the arts are treated in schools.
"It Shouldn't Be Like This"
It's a story many creatives can relate to - one creative outlines the anguish that comes with the fight for funding and wonders the toll the Hunger Games approach takes on artists.
The Futility Of ‘What Do You Want To Be?’
It's a question we ask young and old about their direction in life - but it's time to discard it and stop strangling creativity and opportunity.
The Avia Controversy - As Told By Tusiata Avia
From the corridors of power to the crevices of social media, her creative expression was weaponised and made her an unwitting centrepiece in a racially charged debate. Now - in her own words - Avia replies.
"It's A Shambles" - Arts Education Issues Need Urgent Attention
The lack of priority for the creative fields across Aotearoa is causing more and more concern. Andrew Wood has been calling for more focus on arts education - and the current state is concerning.
Using Humour To Tackle Confronting Subjects
Comedian James Nokise is skilled at using jokes to tackle uncomfortable issues - he explains to The Big Idea the art of the right way to do it.
"Morally Adrift" - Culture & Value Needs Democracy, Not Democratisation
Seasoned creative leader Philip Clarke states our lens on culture and value needs to change - and how the passing of the Queen helped sparked this conversation.
Opinion: How Has Creative Community Fared In The Ardern Era?
Much has been said of Jacinda Ardern's success & failures in the Prime Minister's role - but Andrew Wood gives his personal thoughts on what's been achieved in the Arts, Culture & Heritage portfolio.