Some of the Sunshine Coast’s most talented artists and creative industries are poised to deliver bigger and better outcomes, with significant financial backing.
Local artists and arts organisations are set to share a $130,000 funding boost, through Sunshine Coast Council with the support of the Queensland Government.
The cash injections are aimed at increasing participation in creative arts, supporting First Nations endeavours and growing audiences.
The Creative Industries Investment Program supports local artists to upscale existing programs, events and initiatives, ultimately providing quality creative arts experiences and cultural benefit to the region.
Eligible applicants request between $5000 to $20000 each year for projects that support the Sunshine Coast Arts Plan 2018 to 2038, with more funding available to projects that demonstrate existing and ongoing regional cultural benefit.
Sunshine Coast Council Arts Portfolio Councillor Rick Baberowski said the program was jointly funded through the Sunshine Coast Arts and Heritage Levy and the Sunshine Coast Regional Arts Development Fund.
“RADF is a grant program partially funded through the Queensland Government,” Cr Baberowski said.
“It is designed to provide financial support, twice per year, for emerging and established artists, creative practitioners and producers to kick-start an idea or further develop an initiative.”
Sunshine Coast Council Creative Arts and Events Coordinator Janine Symons said council had received 13 applications for the new annual program, requesting more than $260,000.
“Council has allocated $130,000, for the first of three years funding, to seven diverse local projects,” Ms Symons said.
“One applicant which will be receiving maximum funding is the Sunshine Coast Creative Alliance, recognising their significant contribution to supporting regional arts sector development.
“Another organisation receiving significant funding is Red Chair. Their Compass Project, a micro-touring circuit, will deliver nine performing arts tours comprising 36 concerts annually across the Sunshine Coast, providing audiences with an exciting range of music, comedy, cabaret and dance.”
Further information about arts funding, including how and when to apply, successful recipients and project information, is available on council’s website.
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