Securing Toi Maori
The General Manager of Toi Maori outlines the current position and future plans of the organisation.
In 1997 the report 'The Protection Of Maori Arts Under Current Law In New Zealand' was completed by lawyer Fiona Morris. That document helped shape the current strategic plan of Toi Maori and request for a direct funding relationship with government, based on the Treaty of Waitangi. It also outlined courses of action for the national committees in protecting their art work.
Last year as part of the Arts Recovery package of the Labour Government, Toi Maori received a three-year funding contract from 2001 to 2003 through the 'Future Strengths' programme. This programme has also allowed Toi Maori to participate in governance training programmes, and host arts visitors, with the aim of strengthening the capabilities of arts organisations.
Toi Maori received $613,000 from Creative New Zealand for 2001. Further contracts from Community Education Group, the Health Sponsorship Council, local authorities and others contributed additional income. Clearly though, Creative New Zealand is our major benefactor.
Toi Maori submits comment on issues that affect artists, in response to discussion papers generated by Te Puni Kokiri, the Ministry of Economic Development, Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of Cultural Affairs.
The effective contribution of Toi Maori to the protection of creative work depends on the support it receives from artists and hapu. This support may come directly or through the national committees. Toi Maori's alignment to the needs and aspirations of hapu arts and culture is ongoing and is best served in the work of the more heritage-focused committees such as He Awhi Tikanga, Te Roopu Raranga Whatu, Nga Waka Federation and Te Uhi.
Securing Toi Maori certainly means retaining the level of funding through Creative New Zealand and other sponsors. However, it is the sound knowledge provided by the arts committees that underpins the true value of the organisation. How that knowledge effects change in Maori arts is the measure of the combined value of Toi Maori. Let's lift our game another notch and deliver the quality art outcomes that our supporters expect.
To serve you better, Toi Maori is upgrading its publications and website, offering you greater opportunity for input and profile.
Also, you should note that Puatatangi chair Hirini Melbourne has completed a document based on the Mataatua Declaration of Indigenous Rights, concerning protocols for the cultural and intellectual property rights of iwi. Toi Maori is circulating this document for wider analysis and discussion.
Please send any comments to PO Box 9570, Wellington, or email toimaori@xtra.co.nz.