Community arts hub Cultural Conversations is on the move, but its founder Tanya Nock is looking on the bright side.
“We’ve been tucked away [in Morrison Square], which has been safe for our community, but now we’re ready to come into the CBD,” she said.
The hub began its life on Hardy St, moving into Morrison Square about four years ago. Now, with the buildings on Morrison Square deemed unsafe, Cultural Conversations is facing a move. Nock hopes the next shift will be their last.
“If we have a permanent place it will add that security, it will feel like it’s our own.”
Since its inception, Cultural Conversations has provided a welcoming space for migrants and former refugees, and now runs a busy arts-centred schedule of events including concerts, cooking, talks and art workshops.
It’s also home to social enterprise Global Stitch Up. The project sees women tackling a sewing project together. The women are paid for their work, and profits are channelled into social enterprises.
In one previous project, the group made purses to help fund an underground sewing group in Afghanistan. In another, they sewed headbands to raise money for Nelson Tasman Hospice.
Supported by Uniquely Nelson and Morrison Square, so far Cultural Conversations has not needed to pay rent. This will change with a new location, Nock said.
To raise money for their move, Nock has started a Givealittle campaign, and the hub’s community has swung into action, planning a series of fundraising events.
“We’re asking people to host various events and be creative and do it in their own way,” she said.
This could mean holding a pot luck dinner, a movie night, a chess night, a chilli tasting competition or a taco night. Guests will be invited to donate.
“The response has been, ‘what can I do?’ People have come together, and they want to support us.”
It’s a busy time for Nock, who learned earlier this month she has been nominated for an Inspirational Women Award, which celebrates Aotearoa’s change-makers and leaders.
More than the recognition for her work, she’s looking forward to a chance to meet the other finalists in November at the award ceremony in Queenstown.
“When I looked at all the women, I just think it will be amazing to be in that space with people who have that same passion. To be a finalist is a huge honour.”
You can find out about Cultural Conversations’ fundraising events at culturalconversations.co.nz. Donations can be made via Givealittle.
Source: Stuff - Nelson Mail, Amy Ridout
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