AAA Information Service: you ask, we answer

9 May 2008
Providing accurate information and resources about arts opportunities for marginalised people and communities is the aim of AAA Information Service, launched on 9 May by Arts Access Aotearoa.

Julie Donvin-Irons and Jody Bowman with Information Service pamphlets Executive Director Julie Donvin-Irons says Arts Access Aotearoa receives a wide range of queries from the public, government organisations, businesses, community groups and individuals.

“Collectively, we’ve built up a wealth of knowledge at Arts Access Aotearoa and it makes sense to share this with our stakeholders and the public,” Ms Donvin-Irons says. “AAA Information Service will help build the capability of the sector and also inform the public about the arts of marginalised individuals and groups.”

The sector includes refugees, disadvantaged migrants, mental health consumers, youth at risk, the justice sector, and people with intellectual or physical disabilities.

“You ask, we answer,” says a new leaflet promoting the free service. Typical queries that Arts Access Aotearoa receives include:

As an Outsider Artist, where can I go to get funding for my arts project?
Where’s the nearest Creative Space for me to attend?
Where can I go to buy some artwork for my business?
I’m a refugee artist. Is there a place where I can go and work with other artists?
I work for a Creative Space. Where can I get information about the arts, health and wellbeing?

Arts Access Aotearoa is a national organisation with an office in Wellington. It works with marginalised people and communities to ensure they have access to the arts and can create, perform and develop their own arts. It also provides a voice for Outsider Artists and promotes their contribution to a culturally diverse New Zealand society.

For more information about AAA Information Service call 04-802 4349 or email

Arts Access Aotearoa receives major funding from Creative New Zealand and the Department of Corrections.