Building Resilience in the Arts

Handling Rejection in the Arts -Presented by Arts Murihiku and He Waka Tuia - FREE to attend.
Rejection is an inevitable part of every creative journey — whether it’s a declined funding application, a disappointing review or audience attendance, an unsuccessful audition or exhibition, or a proposal that didn’t get the green light.

Join us for an honest and supportive panel kōrero exploring how artists and creatives across disciplines experience and respond to rejection. Our panel will share personal stories, practical strategies, and insights into how setbacks can shape growth, strengthen resolve, and spark new directions.

Whether you're emerging or established, this event is for anyone who’s ever heard "no" — and wondered what to do next.

Panel Questions
• Can you share a time when you faced rejection in your creative practice — and how you responded to it?
• Was there ever a time you responded badly to rejection? What did you learn from that experience?
• What helps you stay grounded or motivated when something doesn’t go your way — whether it’s an audition, a funding round, or a harsh review?
• What role does critical feedback play in your creative process? How do you decide what to take on board and what to let go?
• How do you separate your sense of self-worth from external validation or outcomes?
• Has rejection ever led to an unexpected opportunity, insight, or change in direction that turned out to be a positive?