The concept of Panacea Arts (as Spark Studio was originally named) was formed in 1996 by Jeannette Baalbergen while completing a diploma in Teaching for People with Disabilities at the Auckland College of Education. Her vision was to assist in the formation of a self sufficient, co-operative organisation where people of all abilities can celebrate their creativity and be empowered to become valued members of their own communities.

As a part of her research Jeannette assisted a regional care organisation and an art and design college to combine their expertise and design a painting course specifically for 10 students with intellectual disabilities. Designing the course also demonstrated to Jeannette how very few artistic enterprises in Auckland target vocational opportunities for adults with disabilities.

In 1999 she met Iain Crichton, a professional potter who also had a keen interest in developing art options for people with disabilities. In March 2000 Jeannette and Iain officially registered Panacea Arts as a Charitable Trust and in 2004 moved the studio to its present location at Fowlds Park. Ian and Jeanette have now both retired from the trust.

The name Spark Studio and a new logo were created in September 2006 in consultation with Aim Proximity, a prominent Auckland marketing company who generously gave their time and expertise in this project. The management of the studio and development of programmes are now under the direction of Suzanne Vesty – an artist, creative educator and therapist of many years experience; she is supported by the administrator Josie Maskell and the Spark Team of arts facilitators.

Spark Studio continues to be administered by Panacea Arts Charitable Trust.