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.

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.

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

PREVIOUS TEAM

Previous team members have left a lasting impression and XCHC is forever grateful for their time and contribution.