Wednesday 28 March

Council supported artists win big at the Fringe Awards

Council’s support and investment in arts is paying dividends with recent accolades and awards for creative recipients.

This week, it was announced that Toi Pōneke dance residency show Blueprint won two awards at the 2018 Fringe Festival ceremony. Toi Pōneke Community Arts Residency recipientsEverybody Cool Lives Here with Jacob Dombroski’s Big J Styles, also took out a top gong, as well as getting highly commended for two awards.

Arts and Events Manager Natasha Petkovic-Jeremic says examples like Blueprint and Big J Styles are great stories as they demonstrate how Council supports local talent through numerous channels.

“Not only do we provide funding through our various grants, but there is also a platform through our ReCut events, residencies at Toi Pōneke, artist exchange programmes, and support through our arts advisors too.

“For a relatively small investment we can make an enormous contribution to artistic careers by providing advice and support around all the skills they may require for a future in the arts. Our residencies can provide actual practical experience of producing a show, installing an exhibition, marketing and promoting work.”

The past few months of festivals and events have added to Wellington’s growing reputation as the Cultural Capital of New Zealand according to Mayor Justin Lester, who also holds the Arts and Culture portfolio.

“Our investment in local talent and the creative sector has been on show through the Fringe and International Festivals, as well as through the hundreds of events put on for Summer City and ReCut – most of which we have supported through our grants and events funding.

“A diverse, interesting and exciting arts programme of events contributes to the vibrancy and economy of the city, and attracts other creative individuals and organisations, visitors, top international acts, and businesses.”

A 2017 infometrics report into creative cities in New Zealand showed Wellington to be New Zealand’s most creative city, with 6.4% of the city’s workforce being involved in creative and artistic occupations and industries.

For funding advice, criteria required, or to apply for funding visit wcc.govt.nz/funding, phone 04 803 8562 or email funding@wcc.govt.nz

ENDS

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