Celebrating 20 years of operation in June 2024, C.S. Art Whare Toi is an arts based studio for people with limited access to the arts through disability or mental health. It’s philosophy is one of inclusion, acceptance and belonging welcoming more than 40 artists each week to one of 6 community classes. When funding allows, outside kaiako are sourced to lead music, stone carving and art wananga under the C.S. Art umbrella. Collaborating with Arts Murihiku, C.S. Art Whare Toi exhibits annually at Whare Taupua, Waihopai Invercargill’s community arts hub. Speaking about the studio, one artist said, ” It’s a safe place. I don’t have to put up my shield. I come and learn and develop my art abilities. It’s a place where I can come and learn at my own pace. I can be my true self. I can come in that door and go ‘whew, I’m home’.” M.H.