There are only days left to apply for funding under Central Coast Council’s popular Creative Art Central program which aims to nurture growth and support excellence in the region’s arts and cultural sector.
Up to six commissions are available to professional or emerging artists.
Introduced in 2011, the annual program offers up to $15,000 per project for successful applicants.
Local artists are being invited to pitch their ideas to create original works for the region.
Council’s Director Community and Recreation Services, Julie Vaughan, said the program is looking for works that are of a professional standard and provide an opportunity for the community to participate or collaborate in the creative process.
“Creative Art Central is an important action of the Central Coast Cultural Plan and supports the development of innovative and contemporary work across all art-forms,” Vaughan said.
“The program will commission a variety of new high-quality works that will lead the local industry and enhance our creative identity.
“Creative Art Central has flow on effects for the local economy and a focus on public programs offers the community new opportunities to engage with art and culture on the Coast.”
Council Administrator, Rik Hart, said a diverse mix of artists who are skilled in all mediums and from a range of backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
“Creative partnerships build the footprint of creative industries on the Coast and deliver significant benefits across the arts, business and tourism sectors,” Hart said.
“I encourage local emerging and professional creative practitioners to apply for the program to create works and share stories that inspire the Central Coast community.”
Since its inception, Creative Art Central has funded new creative initiatives across diverse art forms, providing employment for more than 275 artists and attracting audiences of over 24,000 people.
Some of the Creative Art Central projects commissioned in previous years include: Dean Russell – screenplay for a new film and workshops for local filmmakers; Emily Flannery – development of a new performance work incorporating First Nations’ stories about birds and creation of the land; Sharon Aldrick – multidisciplinary arts project involving photography, film, storytelling and mentoring; Glitta Supernova – Naughty Noodle Fun House – delivering two pilot performances (Summer Sizzler and NAIDOC Nylon) at Laycock Street Community Theatre in February and July 2019 to sold out audiences; Andrew Lee – Rosaline – concept development of a feature film drama set on the Central Coast; and Lisa Edwards – Creating Space – a series of workshops around the Coast for women from all backgrounds to connect, share stories and build friendships through weaving.
Creative Art Central is supported by the region’s leading arts organisations and venues including Gosford Regional Gallery, Laycock Street Community Theatre, Central Coast Conservatorium of Music, NAISDA and The Art House Wyong.
Application details are outlined at info.centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/creativeartcentral
Terry Collins