Floor Talk by Arts Access Aotearoa's Richard Benge

Floor talk by Richard Benge, Executive Director, Arts Access Aotearoa.

Richard will be discussing the importance of accessibility and visibility in the arts and what Arts Access Aotearoa does nationally with a key focus on Arts in Corrections.

This talk coincides with the opening of ‘From the Inside – Mai I Roto’ an exhibition at Taupō Museum of artworks created at Tongariro Prison, acknowledging the value of creativity for wellbeing, self discovery and rehabilitation. The exhibition runs from Saturday September 28 to Monday November 4.

Richard Benge is responsible for delivering the Arts Access Aotearoa strategic plan, manages the staff and volunteer team and reports to the board of trustees. Previous roles include Cultural Affairs Specialist at the United States Embassy in Wellington; Manager of heritage icon Old St Paul’s; and an independent events and communications specialist. After completing a BEd degree from Victoria College Rusden (Melbourne), majoring in drama and English literature, Richard worked as a high school teacher and for Arts Access Victoria as an artist-in-residence in psychiatric hospitals.

Taupō Museum is open 7 days from 10am to 4.30pm and is free to Taupō District locals with proof of address. $5 Adults, $3 Seniors and Tertiary Students. Children are free.