Developing creative work in sites of conflict can present unique challenges for artists and educators. The context of arts practice can be a highly contested, vulnerable and ‘performative’ space open to multiple and competing readings and perceptions. Avoiding the competing ideological issues for political expediency may unwittingly embroil a player in a game in which they are intermediaries of powerful agendas with very different intentions (Novelli & Lopes Cardozo 2008). A place to play, to imagine, to feel safe is often a fragile luxury.