Lyn Cotton
“The artistic community is built on generosity rather than competitiveness and there is a beautiful sense of community that we need to continue to foster.”
How would you describe what you do?
Inclusive dance training, workshops and performances by and for people with disabilities
What was your most recent project?
Interactive dance performances for audiences with disabilities
What project have you worked on that you’re the most proud of?
Building a grassroots community of dancers, teachers and performers who challenge perspectives about disability and have brought new artistic voices to our community
What is essential for creatives to have in their life?
Operational and financial support – a general manager or operations manager who can do the work that takes us away from our creativity and lets us focus on the artistic vision
What inspires you about Ōtautahi?
The support people/organisations give each other. The artistic community is built on generosity rather than competitiveness and there is a beautiful sense of community that we need to continue to foster
What piece of advice about your creative work has served you well?
Don’t compare your work to others. Follow your instincts, acknowledge and give yourself time to find your own artistic voice. Make mistakes!!! – best way to learn what you don’t like
What’s the biggest misconception about your creative work?
That is comes naturally from inspiration. Artistically we work hard to bring a feeling/idea/sense to life and we grow as artists by continuing to work and challenge ourselves
What Christchurch artists do you most admire?
Too hard to choose!! I would like to recognise the people working in the arts organisations that support us though. They are my heroes!!
What artwork/piece of music/performance has taken your breath away?
The 185 Empty Chairs’ earthquake memorial
What do you wish you’d have known about creative work when you were younger?
That I could do it!! – that creativity belongs to all of us
What’s your favourite hidden secret in Ōtautahi?
The hills and the beach – the quiet places of space, peace and beauty so close to the city centre