A program is offering local artists and technologists an opportunity to develop their ideas through workshops and mentorships, with a financial boost.
Sunshine Coast Council’s FutureNow: In and of a Place program allows people to take part in a five-month development course that supports experimentation, collaboration and growth within the evolving arts and technology sector.
Council creative director Megan Rowland said applications from performing artists, projection artists, coders, software developers, makers, designers and visual artists were encouraged.
“Participants will engage in hands-on workshops, forums and an intensive weekend program facilitated by industry leaders in the arts and technology space,” she said.
“We’re providing access to equipment, industry mentors and peers, alongside a $2000 stipend to help artists and technologists develop an existing idea or experiment with new approaches.
“At the conclusion of the program, participants will have the opportunity to pitch their projects for further development and potential presentation at festivals across Australia.
“Initiatives like this are essential for fostering innovation and supporting the cultural growth of our region.
“If we want to enjoy a thriving arts community here on the Sunshine Coast, we need to nurture creativity and explore new ways of making and experiencing art.”
Councillor David Law said the program was designed to support and expand the region’s arts scene.
“FutureNow aims to position the Sunshine Coast as a connected and competitive contender in this emergent creative space, build capacity within the local sector and create new networks across Queensland and Australia,” he said.
“Participants will explore new modes of arts practice, engagement and presentation in a regional context.”
FutureNow: In and of a Place is part of Council’s FutureNOW Program, launched in 2024 and designed and delivered in collaboration with the creative sector.
The group of artists and technologists that participated in 2024 included Alison Mooney, Amanda Bennetts, Ben Tupas, Finley Wegner, Kellie O’Dempsey, Melissa Stannard, Nicole Voevodin-Cash and Ruby Donohoe.
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FutureNOW is aligned with key strategic documents such as the Australia Council Digital Culture Strategy, Queensland Government Grow 2022-2026 and the Sunshine Coast Creative Arts Plan 2018-2038.
Expressions of interest for the program close on January 27 with successful applications announced on February 3. For more information or to apply, visit council’s website.
