Emerging artists and creative projects set to flourish

Inspiring and dedicated creatives – individuals and organisations - will share $42,000 after successfully applying for grants as a part of Sunshine Coast Council’s Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) program.

The funds will support nine projects across five RADF categories - project funding, seed funding, individual development funding, concept development and mentorships.

The diversity of successful projects and artists will further enrich the thriving arts culture we have on the Sunshine Coast, according to Community Programs Portfolio Councillor Jenny McKay.

“This is the first round of applications we have assessed since the new and improved RADF program was launched in July,” Cr McKay said.

“From a new artist development space in Nambour, to an exhibition celebrating 50 years of print, I am looking forward to seeing these projects and many more come alive.

“I was particularly happy to see applications in the new Seed Funding category, which gives artists and organisations greater ability to plan a project from inception to completion by offering funding for projects for up to three years.”

Amongst the successful Seed Funding category grant recipients was The Sunshine Coast Arts Industry Precinct (The Old Ambulance Station) in Nambour.

According to Judy Pippen from The Old Ambulance Station, the $10,000 grant will be used to introduce a community space which will help local artists develop the skills needed to take their ideas from design, to production and then sale.

“We were thrilled to receive this grant which will help develop and launch our program called Maker Space - from design to market,” Ms Pippen said.

“Participants will explore both ends of the maker spectrum, with the aim of honing the artist’s skills in a more commercial direction. The make and do will be accompanied by business planning and entrepreneurial support.”

Applications for the RADF program are always open, with assessment taking place four times a year. For more information, contact council's grants team on 5420 8616 and ask speak with the RADF Liaison Officer.

The Regional Arts Development Fund is a partnership between the Queensland Government, through Arts Queensland, and Queensland local councils.

Premier and Arts Minister Annastacia Palaszczuk said $2.08 million had been allocated by the State in 2015-16 for the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), a state and local government partnership with 59 local councils across Queensland.

“The $2.08 million will leverage approximately $1.8 million from local councils, and means an anticipated total of $3.9 million will be available for arts projects across the state,” the Premier said.

“RADF supports around 3000 arts, cultural and heritage projects annually, ranging from local festivals and celebrations, to training, education and employment outcomes for Queensland artists.”