Make/Shift Spaces is a not-for-profit organisation based in Nelson, New Zealand, dedicated to revitalising the city by transforming empty commercial properties into creative, vibrant environments. Founded in 2018, the organisation connects artists, creatives, and community groups with vacant spaces, enabling a diverse range of art installations, storytelling projects, and cultural activities throughout Whakatū Nelson. By matching temporary installations with available sites, Make/Shift Spaces breathes new life into neglected locations, making art accessible to the community and helping property owners activate their spaces while properties remain on the market.

The organisation’s projects range from the wide-reaching ArtDoors and ArtWalk initiative to mural installations, immersive heritage storytelling through audio such as the Pic Path project, and programmes that celebrate cultural diversity and community connection. Make/Shift Spaces partners with local institutions, property owners, and residents to create opportunities for public engagement, spark conversations about the future of Nelson, and foster a sense of pride in the city’s unique character. Driven by a belief in short-term creative solutions with long-term positive impacts, Make/Shift Spaces champions innovative approaches to making Nelson’s spaces more engaging, inclusive, and lively for everyone.

Over the last four years, Make/Shift Spaces has created and facilitated more than 40 installations, storyboards, workshops and performances. Some are fleeting, others, like ArtWalk, have a more lasting presence. The connection is our place – whether it’s a painting depicting the origins of kōkōwai (red ochre), an art installation of pioneer dairy cows, or premiering a new one-woman play – all are stories of the people of Nelson Whakatū.