The aim of the event is to highlight creativity and its role in wellbeing and mental health, Artsenta director Paul McLellan-Smith said.
‘‘It’s a river of creativity running through Dunedin.’’
The event would be run from September to November, with a one-day symposium in October.
The symposium is a ‘‘set programme for one day, consisting of mostly presentations and keynote speakers’’.
Mr McLellan is seeking artists for the event, which will be held at the Beautiful Science Gallery. Entries close on May 31.
‘‘It has a lot of projectors and audio visual equipment ... we want to create an immersive experience for people when they go there.’’
The studio focused on the relationship between creativity and mental health, expressed through artwork from the community.
Artsenta was established in 1986 at former Hawksbury mental hospital Cherry Farm and this anniversary would be an opportunity to celebrate its successes, Mr McLellan said.
‘‘It’s really a chance to shine a light nationally on the role of creativity in supporting wellbeing.’’
Artsenta supports those struggling with mental health or addiction providing an outlet to express themselves and focus on their wellbeing.
‘‘It’s a community of peers who support each other ... a stigma-free space that’s accepting.’’
Members of the community ‘‘have been supported to be creative through Artsenta and their wellness has benefited’’.
The event will highlight pieces from members of the Artsenta community.
‘‘A lot of people have been rowing their waka on the river of creativity ... we’re really excited about how we can bring that to life.’’
