Company · Community Services

Toi Ora Live Art Trust

Toi Ora is a creative space located in the heart of Auckland city providing innovation and leadership in the field of creativity in mental health recovery. We bridge the gap for people who come into contact with mental health and other support services, through the exploration of creativity as a proven means to enhance recovery and maintain well-being. Our programme of workshops, classes, and exhibitions support people to develop their strengths and potential in the arts in a safe, non-institutional environment. Toi Ora provides an array of visual arts, writing, performance, music and recording classes that are tutored by professional practitioners with experience and/or an understanding of the issues surrounding mental health. A range of art materials, equipment and resources are available. Toi Ora’s framework of engagement ensures that the creative environment is safe for our artists and staff: physically, emotionally and culturally. Our class timetables and structure support artists to develop stable and reliable routines, which are vital and contribute to positive mental health outcomes. The artists focus on specific activities allowing them to concentrate on one task at a time. Artists exercise control over their actions and manage their time. They can slow down or speed up in a safe and supportive environment. They can work independently and seek support based on their individual experience and their creative endeavours. The results are immediate, giving the artist a strong sense of self-management of their own wellbeing. The time spent at Toi Ora can offer release from daily reminders of mental distress. People participating in creative work improve their social and cultural bonds by connecting with a diverse community. They all have a common interest in the arts. People have expressed that Toi Ora provides them with moments of “Flow”, accomplishment and hope. Overall, many participating artists express gratitude for Toi Ora's programme.