introducing something different
XCHC started with a board and a wealth of experience. Their diversity of expertise in architecture, business, law, and the arts was necessary to access funding, find an adequate building, form the model, and establish the space.
Now we’re here, the rest is up to you.
BLM Allyship & Youth Community Outreach
Preston | XO
(Exchange Operator)
Preston arrived in 2016 after being inspired by urban placemaking projects in the post-quake context. “The earthquakes attracted people who were ready to do things differently, that attracted me to Ōtautahi.”
He came on a Working Holiday visa from Asheville (North Carolina, USA); a creatively thriving city.
When he realized his skills could help a similar creative scene to emerge in Christchurch, he join the XCHC team.
Berlin Statues | Photo Project
What attracted you to XCHC?
“To be honest, I was a bit lost in life.
I had a good career and life in Asheville, but I lacked purpose and I knew there was so much more to experience in the world.
I found it hard to make friends the first few months I lived in Christchurch, but when I walked into XCHC, I felt very welcomed, even though I didn’t identify as a creative or artist. This left such a positive impact on me, I decided to volunteer regularly at XCHC, which eventually lead to being hired, and now a Director.
Now I get to offer that same experience to others; bringing people together and helping creatives brings me so much joy. You wouldn’t believe how much can be achieved when you connect with other passionate people and work together on something creative together.”
What impact does this work have on you?
“I used to believe Art/The Arts was just paintings in galleries or contemporary installations that were deep in context (and therefore went over my head), so it felt like unless I really got into the industry, I just wouldn’t “get it” and seem dumb.
That’s what’s in the media, usually.
The professionals.
But XCHC pulled back the curtain (quite literally even, if you’ve seen the layout of XCHC) so I could see it was so much more. It’s really changed me.It keeps me here and I can’t remember the last time I was bored.
I’ll continue to develop this work until it becomes normal… by the time others catch on, I’ll be looking for the next ‘edge’ of my own creative practice, just like XCHC helps others to find theirs.”
and What impact does it have on others?
Being creative can be both exciting and a vulnerable part of our life. The creative process is intense, messy, and deeply personal; deeply human. It’s strange to me, this authentic ‘thing’ that so many people share is so hidden from the world. I believe it’s what the world needs most right now;. It’s important for our cities and society; this is how they grow.
You also have a greater voice, potential, and impact working as a group. You learn from each other, support each others art, and ultimately grow personally and professionally as a person. I think this is something we all want; to feel belonging regardless of age, gender, race, experience etc.”
The “Exchange Operator” role is no longer something based on just the space, I’m connected with creatives around the world, and am still learning how to be better skilled at this work everyday.
Hope to meet when you visit XCHC.
- Preston
Behind the Scenes
Christoph Wysocki
Director
2021 -
Matthew Biddick
Treasurer
2015 -
PREVIOUS TEAM
Previous team members have left a lasting impression and XCHC is forever grateful for their time and contribution.
Pedro Johnston
Manager | Barista | Chef
2017 - 2021
Camia Young
Founder | Director
2013 - 2021
Noemie Jullien
Sous Chef | Awesome
2018 - 2021
Camila Nieulands
Assistant Chef
2016-2019
Agnieszka Parr
Advisory Board
Media & Communications
Tony Chamberlain
Trustee - Chair
09.2015 - 10.2016
Uwe Rieger
Founder
06.2013 - 02.2016
Gaby Montejo
Trustee
05.2014 - 09.2015
Nic Hetherington
Event Manager
08.2014 - 02.2015
Brie Sherow
Bar Manager
2017
Holly Chappell-Eason
Advisory Board
Events Artist
Kerry Mulligan
Advisory Board
Facilities
Marcia Butterfiled
Director - Media & Comms
10.2015- 08.2016
Netta Egoz
Trustee
05.2014 - 04.2015
Harry Knight
XCHC Operator
08.2014 - 03.2015
Jon Jeet
Advisory Board
Residents Artist
Aliesha Mcgilligan
Chef & Cafe Director
09.2015 - 07.2017
Jess MacDonald
Director - Residents
05.2016- 08.2016
Gerald Carter
Trustee
05.2014 - 01.2016
Jaya Gibson
Operations Director
04.2015 - 07.2015