About Us

As we all strive for equity and equality in this rapidly changing world, Hōhepa stands out. We hope this Art and Sculpture exhibition will be seen as a place to be, added to CHCH's art calendar and recognised as a unique, equal opportunity space for artists with and without intellectual disabilities.

The purpose of art can be seen from many angles, serving a greater purpose of emotional expression, social commentary, a channel for communication, and therapeutic well-being, as well as something simply beautiful. As the curators of this exhibition, this is our key message. 

Art has the capacity to heal and change the maker and the viewer. In a world where AI can produce something spectacular, we challenge the art world to consider what the true purpose of art really is.  

The artists of Hōhepa are, in essence, pure makers, with little or no understanding of the art world, where some might say the true purpose of art is at risk of being lost and is moving towards simply a commodity. Yet our need for its true purpose has increased. 

The Hōhepa artists find themselves in a position to evoke conversations, move people, build relationships, heal the viewer or bring a political message to their work, just like other artists do.

The photography group is a great example of this. Chris, whose
father and uncle are also creatives, mentions that his motivation is to make people aware of the environment, to look at nature with awareness and heart, and hopes people are moved to take care of it when they see what he sees. 

This unique exhibition allows people with a disability a voice to be heard and exhibit work alongside the established artists.

Whether in the form of landscapes, self-portraits, abstract, non-objective, narrative art or expressionism, the people of Hōhepa use art in the very same way any artist does, as expression, therapy, or to illustrate cultural or political persuasions. One thing is certain: art is an aesthetic experience, providing beauty in our homes, and it can be thought-provoking, with the capacity to change you as the viewer and perhaps even expand your worldview.

About Hōhepa Canterbury:

Hōhepa Canterbury is a leading care provider according to
the SAMS (Standards and Monitoring Services) report (2025) for the Disability Support Services (DSS). Their initial findings are worth sharing.

Points from the report:

• “Be very proud of the job you do.”
• “Bloody great service you are providing.”
• Everyone working at Hōhepa Canterbury has their heart in the right place, showing deep care and connection with the people they support.
• Staff are well matched with the people they support.
• A strong person-centred approach is being upheld.
• Homes are personalised, and people appear comfortable in their environment.
• LEAP (our day program) is doing amazing things, including encouraging mainstream activities.
• EGL and whānau surveys are positive to see.
• People have opportunities to have pets (a known regulator for the nervous system).
•  adaptable and responsive