Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) and the Three Lakes Cultural Trust (TLCT) are playing creative matchmaker this November — pairing local creativity with unexpected spaces and places across the district.

The Creative Spaces Project invites residents and visitors to explore a district-wide exhibition that goes beyond gallery walls. From shopfronts to community spaces, lobbies, and lakeside locations, creative expression will pop up where people least expect it.

Over 19 local artists will showcase works ranging from light installations and paintings to performances and historic photos, bringing creativity into venues including the Mountain Club, Steamer Wharf, 47 Frocks, Wānaka Recreation Centre, Queenstown Marina, and the Lakes District Museum, among others.

“This project celebrates the creative energy that lives within our communities,” says Samantha Kirk, Chief Operating Officer at TLCT.

“By connecting local artists with local spaces, we’re offering a glimpse of what’s possible when creativity becomes part of the everyday fabric of our place. It’s a taster of the incredible talent that exists here and an invitation for more spaces to open their doors to creative expression year-round.”

The initiative stems from the Te Muka Toi, Te Muka Tākata, The Creativity, Culture and Heritage Strategy, a district-wide community strategy endorsed by QLDC last year. The Strategy envisions creativity, culture, and heritage as integral to the district’s wellbeing and identity.

“Te Muka Toi, Te Muka Tākata calls on us to make creativity visible and accessible in our everyday environments,” says Jan Maxwell, QLDC Relationship Manager, Arts and Events. “The Creative Spaces Project is a wonderful example of this, showing how local collaboration can transform our shared spaces and create moments of connection.”

Local artists have responded enthusiastically along with venue partners, commenting on how inspiring it is to see artists bringing new energy into their spaces and how it connects more deeply to the community. 

Together, QLDC and TLCT hope this month-long project will spark a lasting ripple effect.

“While this activation runs for just one month, our goal is to show how creativity can thrive in all kinds of places and how local venues can play an ongoing role in shaping the cultural life of our district,” says Mrs Kirk.

A full lineup of participating artists and venues can be viewed on an online digital map at www.threelakesculturaltrust. co.nz/creative-spaces-project