On Tuesday 29 July, Arts Access Aotearoa marked 30 years of increasing access to the arts. The celebration, held at Government House, brought together artists, advocates and sector leaders from across the motu.

Among the key speakers was Robyn Hunt: writer, advocate and longtime disability rights campaigner. Robin spoke about the vital role Deaf and disabled people have played in shaping both Arts Access Aotearoa and the wider arts sector.

Robyn was involved in the initial conversations that led to the founding of Arts Access Aotearoa in 1995. She was also part of the original group of Deaf and disabled artists who came together to imagine a national network by and for the community. That early groundwork helped lead to the creation of Taha Hotu Deaf and disabled artists initiative. 

Speaking to the audience at the 30th celebration, Robyn said: 

“The arts are fundamental to our individual wellbeing and our collective humanity.”

She spoke about the momentum being built through initiatives like Taha Hotu, which she called “arts community building at its best”.

Robyn’s leadership has shaped the past three decades of change. In 2019, she received an Arts Access Accolade recognising her commitment to access and equity in the arts. She also acknowledged fellow recipients, saying:

“There are no limits for disability arts. Our rich, often neglected or appropriated thread is woven through the human experience.”

Robyn’s contribution over the past three decades has made a lasting impact, through both advocacy and writing. In 2019, she received an Arts Access Accolade recognising her leadership and commitment to access and equity in the arts.

Joining Robyn at the celebration were fellow Deaf and disabled artists and advocates:

Rodney Bell, dancer and 2017 recipient of the Arts Access Artistic Achievement Award; Rāhera Turner, NZSL creative consultant, Deaf consultant and producer; Duncan Armstrong, performance artist and 2020 recipient of the Artistic Achievement Award; Henrietta Bollinger, writer and recipient of the 2024 Ngā Toi Rangatira o Aotearoa Fellowship; and Erin Gough, accessibility advisor and advocate.

Their presence was a powerful reminder of the expertise, leadership and creative force within the Deaf and disabled artist community. It was a moment to reflect, reconnect and look ahead toward a future where Deaf and disabled artists are not just included, but leading.

Read the full media release on the Arts Access Aotearoa website.