Funding round open for creatives

Creatives around the region this month could be tuning instruments, preparing flax or firing up spray cans as they conjure novel ways to involve the community in their artistic pursuits.

Council expects a flood of applications for the Creative Communities Scheme before the closing date for funding applications on 27 February.

The funding scheme is open to those wanting to deliver projects in the community that ideally would support arts and cultural diversity while encouraging young people to be involved.

“We have a fantastic arts sector, with a lot of very talented people intent on leading projects to involve the community,” says contracts and funding adviser Julie Conder.

“Our region is probably the most over-subscribed for this funding scheme in the whole of New Zealand, with more people wanting to stage arts-based projects than we have funds to provide them,

“We try to fund as many projects as we can, and usually about 20 are accepted.”

Past successful applications have included a clay-making workshop, graffiti art, DJ workshop, face painting, bronze casting, flax weaving, theatre production, online digital arts workshop and performance film-making.

An intergenerational project involving members of the Arohaina Centre for seniors, a Nuhaka marae and school was a particular success.

“With a funding grant of $800, the participants made and tie-dyed felt blankets to fit waha kura, flax baby baskets made by Arohaina seniors. The baskets and blankets were later donated to teenage mothers,” says Ms Conder.

“This involved young and old and provided opportunities for everyone to learn from each other. It ticked all the boxes.”

The Creative New Zealand initiative, administered by Council, will contribute $36,000 to arts in this region this year, the first round offering $22,000.

Applications are assessed by a panel of 11 Gisborne people with arts knowledge and experience.

“I am here to help if someone wants to discuss their idea before making an application, and if they contact me before the closing date I can help people complete their application forms.”

Application forms and further details about the types of activities that might be funded are available on Council’s websitewww.gdc.govt.nz or from Customer Services in Fitzherbert Street and Te Puia Springs.

Applications must be received at council by 5pm, Friday 27 February.

The next funding round takes place in August, focusing on Christmas and summer projects.

ENDS

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