Creative Futures aims to enhance the vitality and evolution of the New Zealand arts sector by opening doors for the next generation of creative practitioners. The multi-day programme is held annually and involves senior secondary school students attending a series of workshops, seminars and talks. Students gain practical skill development, an opportunity to meet role models working in the industry and an understanding of the diversity of roles offered within the creative sector.  

Creative Futures has engaged with students from across De La Salle College (2020), Kelston Girls’ College (2021), Avondale College (2022) Green Bay High School (2023) and Rutherford College (2024).

CONCEPT

The goal of Creative Futures is to give young people an understanding of the range of roles and possibilities that exist within the arts and creative sector. In response to the lack of opportunities for young people related to the arts, our goals for the McCahon House Creative Futures program are to:

• Foster interest and vision in the arts
• Educate on the diversity of employment and career options within the “Art World” and make these positions accessible to students
• Build important and relevant skills for creative careers
• Demonstrate that there is a future in the arts via introductions to role models
• Through Creative Futures, we hope to support young people answer the questions:
  Why should the next generation care about the arts?
  Why should the next generation want to work in the arts?
  I am interested in working in the arts, how and where do I begin?

There is a particular focus on practical skill development, aimed at exposing and demystifying the creative sector in which the McCahon House exists. This program should provide young artists with the skills and agency to make their own contribution to Aotearoa’s arts community.

FEEDBACK

“Thank you so much for this opportunity, I had a really great time and got some really helpful advice about my creative future. I felt so welcomed and included by everyone else.” student, Green Bay High School Creative Futures Programme, 2023

“It (Creative Futures) showed me all the opportunities for a future career in the arts – didn’t know much about how to pursue art so it was a big eye-opener.” student, Rutherford High School Creative Futures Programme, 2024

To learn more about Creative Futures or to express interest in having your school involved, please email us at mccahon@mccahonhouse.org.nz.