Spark Studio could be snuffed out

BY CARLY TAWHIAO

Lighting the artistic fire in the disabled community is a vital practice for Spark Studio, but it’s a job that may be about to get a whole lot harder to do.

Money to manage the centre is under threat from next year’s government education Budget cuts.

The art space receives funding through the Aotearoa Community Education innovation and development fund, which will end next year.

The $350,000 running cost is also supported by community education funding from Mt Albert Grammar School and Onehunga High School.

The imminent financial crisis has prompted Spark Studio to share its stories in its first publication, A Vital Practice, in a bid to raise money and awareness of what it does.

The book acknowledges the creativity which pours out of a former Rocky Nook Bowls clubroom in Fowlds Park, where the studio is based.

The centre caters for 60 adults with various disabilities like Allyson Hamblett, who has cerebral palsy.

Allyson has produced her art portfolio during the seven years she has been at the studio and has exhibited on many occasions.

"I never knew I could paint because the teachers at school were always terrified of me," she says.

The 40-year-old studied education and library studies at university and planned to become a librarian before discovering her artistic abilities.

Although art came to her later in life, she did consider at one time developing her skills further through a mainstream art school.

"I thought about it seriously, but I’m more involved here. I feel really inspired to do my art here," she says.

"I set myself a high standard and I think I reached that. Definitely the teachers here do more than just tutor, they have really great creative energy at Spark."

As well as meeting lots of good friends, Allyson says she enjoys the structure of the course modules, designed specifically for disabled people.

"I get quite frustrated by my disability because I haven’t got that fine motor control I want," she says.

"I like my style now but it’s taken me a long time to like."

Spark Studio director Suzanne Vesty developed the curriculum to help students increase their art knowledge and skill base.

"There’s a far greater awareness of being able to express things in their life," she says.

"They really consider how they can be who they are, and how their lives are and express that through their art making."

Ms Vesty says she is looking for any opportunities to secure funding for the studio.

For a donation of $30, A Vital Practice documents the artists’ observations while contributing to the studio’s fundraising campaign.

To buy a copy or for more information visit www.sparkstudio.org.nz or phone 845-5361.

- © Fairfax NZ News