More flexibility for local arts grants
Fraser Coast artists will be able to use grant funds for equipment to create work online under changes introduced to the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF).
“The changes endorsed at today’s Council meeting (Wednesday, April 29) will help local artists and the arts community through this very difficult time,” Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said.
“Social distancing measures introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic have closed pubs, clubs, galleries and theatres while festivals and other events have been cancelled.
“Without the live contact, artists and groups are now looking for new ways to engage with the community from isolation and Council wants to do what we can to help.”
The changes to the RADF application process allow for a greater focus on buying equipment for digital delivery opportunities, and for faster grant approvals.
As part of the new process, RADF committee recommendations for the remainder of the 2019/20 financial year will go straight to the Council CEO for sign off rather than requiring ratification at the monthly Ordinary Council Meeting.
“The health and livelihood of our community, including artists and arts organisations, have been directly affected by the COVID-19,” Cr Seymour said.
“These changes will allow Council to help alleviate the economic difficulties faced by artists and groups.
“It’s about ensuring we continue to have a resilient arts community - whether it’s bands performing in a pub, actors performing in plays or painters exhibiting in galleries and gift shops; they all help ensure that the Fraser Coast is a vibrant community.
“We need our artists, now more than ever, to help distract us from life under COVID-19.
“We want our artists to be performing and creating now so we can enjoy their works; and we want them ready to start performances once the restrictions are finally lifted so life can return to normal as quickly as possible.”
The changes to the RADF program follow last week’s announcement of the #FraserCoastCreates initiative, a digital arts project aimed at promoting positive local arts experiences and keeping the community connected online.
More details are available here.
RADF is a partnership between the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland and the Fraser Coast Regional Council. RADF promotes the role and value of arts, culture and heritage as key drivers of diverse and inclusive communities and strong regions.