SAFE - NZ

MISSION:

To inspire Interconnectedness, Transformation, and The search for meaning through the Arts.

We are dedicated to promoting arts related projects, events and products that specifically demonstrate a vision of spirituality at their core. We represent and promote all positive and life-affirming spiritual creative arts.

Spirituality has been deeply intertwined with the arts in New Zealand for a long time, not just in contemporary times but also in Māori culture and early settler art. Māori artistic traditions, like whakairo (carving), are intrinsically linked to spiritual beliefs and practices, with art objects often carrying mana and acting as vessels for ancestral connection. The integration of spirituality into art is not a recent development, but rather a continuation of a long-standing relationship between the two.

Māori Art and Spirituality:

• For Māori, art is not merely decorative but a powerful means of expressing spiritual ideas and connecting with ancestors. Materials were gathered and prepared under ritual conditions, and the art was imbued with tapu (sacredness). Taonga tuku iho (treasures handed down) are revered as if they were ancestors themselves.

• Historical Context:

• While Māori art is deeply rooted in spirituality, European settlers also brought their own spiritual influences to the arts, including Christian imagery. The early Spiritualist movement in New Zealand also saw the integration of spiritualist beliefs into artistic expression.

• Contemporary Expressions:

• Contemporary artists in New Zealand continue to explore spirituality in their work, drawing inspiration from both Māori traditions and diverse spiritual perspectives. Some artists engage with themes of environmental connectedness and the spiritual significance of the land.

• Aotearoa as a Spiritual Space:

• For many, the land itself holds deep spiritual significance, with Māori viewing it as papatūānuku (earth mother figure) and others finding awe and environmental connectedness in the landscape.

• Multiculturalism:

  Spiritual arts can play a significant role in fostering multiculturalism in New Zealand by promoting understanding, empathy, and connection between diverse communities. By engaging with spiritual practices and artistic expressions from various cultures, individuals can develop a deeper appreciation for different worldviews and build stronger social bonds.

• Here's how spiritual arts can contribute to integrating multiculturalism:

  1. Promoting Understanding and Empathy:

  • Exposure to diverse perspectives:

  • Spiritual arts, such as rituals, music, dance, and storytelling, offer a window into the beliefs and values of different cultures.

  • Developing empathy:

  • Engaging with these practices can foster empathy and understanding by allowing individuals to experience the world through the lens of another culture.

  • Breaking down stereotypes:

  • By encountering diverse spiritual traditions firsthand, individuals can challenge and dismantle stereotypes and biases.

  2. Building Social Cohesion:

  • Shared experiences:

  • Participating in communal spiritual practices, like shared meals or ceremonies, can create a sense of belonging and connection.

  • Strengthening community bonds:

  • These experiences can foster social cohesion by promoting collaboration, communication, and mutual respect between community members.

  • Creating safe spaces:

  • Spiritual arts can provide safe spaces for individuals from diverse backgrounds to express themselves, share their stories, and build relationships.

  3. Enhancing Cultural Identity and Wellbeing:

  • Celebrating diversity:

  • Spiritual arts allow individuals to celebrate their own cultural heritage while also appreciating the richness of other cultures.

  • Promoting cultural exchange:

  • These practices can facilitate cultural exchange, leading to a more vibrant and dynamic society.

  • Boosting wellbeing:

  • Participating in spiritual arts can enhance individual and collective wellbeing by fostering a sense of purpose, belonging, and connection.

  • 4. Addressing Social Issues:

    • Raising awareness:

    • Spiritual arts can be used to raise awareness about social issues, such as inequality, discrimination, and environmental challenges.

    • Inspiring action:

    • By connecting with emotions and values, these practices can motivate individuals to take action and contribute to positive social change.

    In essence, spiritual arts can be a powerful tool for building bridges between cultures, fostering understanding and empathy, and promoting a more inclusive and harmonious society in New Zealand.

• CORE VALUES OF OUR ORGANISATION:

• 1. Identify Shared Themes.

• 2. Transformation:

  The process of change, growth, and spiritual evolution.

• 3. Explore Diverse Communities.

• 4. Develop Collaborative Projects.

• 5. Promote Inclusivity and Dialogue.