The Value of Creative Safe Spaces

Safe spaces for creative practice provide valuable opportunities for individuals and communities alike.

They allow people to explore ideas and discover their creative voices. They are places where vulnerability is welcomed, diverse identities are embraced, and where growth can happen, whether through music, art, expression, or simple conversation.

Spaces such as these can be found throughout the Waikato, often operating without fanfare, always underpinned with care. What they offer to those who attend and participate is a gentle refuge and a meaningful place to slow down, connect, and create.

Carole Shepheard, Jessica Paton and Sonnett Olls are three local champions of such spaces, using their unique creative talent and experience to empower the communities to which they belong.

From her home and studio in Kawhia, renowned artist and mentor Carole Shepheard has spent decades supporting creative communities. Carole nurtures artists at all stages of their artistic journey, whether a former hairdresser who discovers a passion for printmaking, a neighbour who picks up a paintbrush for the first time, or an experienced art practitioner looking for expert guidance.

“I believe that everybody is capable of creativity, it does not have to be outstanding, it’s the involvement with creating that’s important, not the product.” 

Shepheard sees collective support and a sense of belonging as two key values within her weekly art groups. She describes an individual who came to a recent class in tears, overwhelmed by external life pressures, yet by the time this person left, they were smiling again. The group had come together in support, and through art and conversation, lightened the burden on the individual. This is just one example of the ongoing positive effects from the shared creative experience Carole oversees.  And these are actions that continue to reach beyond the walls of her group meetings.

“I think it’s hugely beneficial. It helps with relationships. It helps with communication.” 

Based in Thames, Jessica Paton is a multi-instrumentalist, mentor, music educator, small business owner, and creative community advocate. Her close involvement with so many diverse groups exemplifies what it means to live a creative life. From fronting doom metal band Slumbug to running independent music store, Garden Music, and dedicating countless hours to supporting youth, Jessica’s mission is clear: to empower others through music. Her philosophy is simple but profound.

“Creativity is human,” she says. “It’s who we are and how we express ourselves. I’ve heard people say they aren’t creative, but I don’t believe that. They just haven’t been given the opportunity.” 

For Jessica, safe spaces, whether in a band room, a community workshop, or an all-ages gig are crucial. This direct approach, and leading the way to making spaces safer, encourages more people to share or to try things.

“People should have access to opportunities, to have those moments of channeling and self-expression because it changes lives. It saves lives.”

With a strong focus on building relationships with young people through one-on-one and group mentoring, Jessica sees these interactions having a sustained and ongoing positive impact on the communities she serves.

South African-born Sonnett Olls’ approach to creativity is deeply rooted in storytelling and connection. As a visual artist and facilitator who now calls Tokoroa home, Olls oversees a gallery and workshop with exhibitions that create inclusive spaces for others to explore their identities and emotions. The tight knit group that utilises this unique creative place reveals a common theme of accessibility. There is a quiet yet important understanding of being welcome and appreciated at any stage of their development.

Sonnett’s openness and dedication to facilitating new projects is a testament to the transformative power of art in the community.

“Art is a way to have conversations that we otherwise couldn’t have,” she says. “It’s about bringing people together, acknowledging differences, and fostering empathy.”

Whether she’s curating an exhibition or designing a community mural, Sonnett’s focus is on creating moments where everyone feels seen and valued. For her, safe spaces aren’t just nice to have, they’re essential.

“Without them, people don’t feel like they belong. And without belonging, creativity can’t flourish.”

The work that Carole, Jessica, and Sonnett are doing, along with so many others in similar positions throughout the Waikato, remind us of the wider benefits experienced through creative engagement in safe spaces. In addition, their commitment to inclusivity shows that when we create welcoming environments for people to express themselves, we build stronger, more connected communities, one shared moment at a time.

This article is part of a series of upcoming stories connected with our Creativity Lives in Waikato project. We know that Waikato thrives with diverse and transformative creative activity, so we are helping to highlight some of the creativity that lives in our region. Check out this growing collection of stories featuring the local Waikato creative community.