APPLICATIONS are now open for the 2020/21 Mount Gambier City Council Creative Arts Fund, which supports the delivery of programs and projects that enrich and activate public spaces in the city.
Artists, not-for-profit organisations and community groups can access a total of $50,000 to support the delivery of vibrant, creative and contemporary art projects.
The goal of the fund it to create a vibrant street culture to attract visitors and generate a sense of community attachment and civic pride.
City Council arts and cultural development officer Serena Wong said the $50,000 allocated to the fund was an increase on last year’s $25,000.
“This year there is an increase in the amount of funding available as we see the creation of public art as a celebration of Mount Gambier and our residents,” Ms Wong said.
“Not only do we get to highlight the talent this region attracts, but also champion our outdoor spaces.”
In the last round of the funding, successful applicant Justin Clarke was able to complete his concept Shine in the South East, a mural in the Commerce Arcade.
“I am very grateful to be given the opportunity to work on a mural like this to try and beautify our city,” Mr Clarke said.
“I feel it is extremely important to continue to fund projects for artists to showcase their talents, as well as enhancing the landscape and also potentially boosting tourism for our city.”
A mural on the City Band Hall’s exterior and Locals, an interactive storytelling experiment using photojournalism by Kate Hill, were also made possible by the fund.
Projects may focus on performing and visual arts, literature, film, design, multimedia, history and heritage.
However they must align with council’s community plan, culture and heritage plan and public art strategy, with applications assessed against the priorities detailed in the program guidelines.
The project team will host a question and answer session to help prospective applicants at The Riddoch and Main Corner Complex tomorrow at 6pm.
“We will be outlining some crucial information at the Q&A session on Thursday so we encourage anyone who is thinking about putting in an application for this year’s fund to register for the event and come along to find out all the details,” Ms Wong said.
“With the extra funds available we are looking for exciting and ambitious projects that will inspire our community and through the Q&A session we’ll really be able to highlight the extent of the opportunities available.”
Visit www.mountgambier.sa.gov.au/creativeartsfund to view the guidelines and application form for the Creative Arts Fund.
