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 will transform shopfronts, community hubs, lobbies and lakeside spots into impromptu galleries and performance venues, inviting residents and visitors to experience art outside traditional gallery walls.

More than 19 local artists will showcase work ranging from light installations and paintings to performances and historic photography in venues including 47 Frocks, Wānaka Recreation Centre, Queenstown Marina, the Lakes District Museum, and more.

“This project celebrates the creative energy that lives within our communities,” TLCT chief operating officer Samantha Kirk said.

“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. 

It 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,” QLDC relationship manager arts and events Jan Maxwell said. 

“The Creative Spaces Project is a wonderful example of this, showing how local collaboration can transform our shared spaces and create moments of connection.”

QLDC and TLCT hope the 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,” Samantha said.

A full lineup of participating artists and venues can be viewed on an online digital map here.

PHOTO: Deanna Gerlach