ArtsACT has launched a new program to support the ACT arts industry to recover from the effects of COVID-19, build capability within the sector and create jobs.
Minister for the Arts, Tara Cheyne said artsACT’s Creative Recovery and Resilience Program would focus on employment and economic stimulus for Canberra’s creative sector.
“The arts are an essential part of our lives and contribute immensely to the economic, cultural and societal value of our community,” Ms Cheyne said.
“COVID has had a significant impact on our arts industry,” she said.
“Artists have not only lost income and opportunities, they also continue to experience ongoing pressures due to travel restrictions and capacity limits in venues.”
Ms Cheyne said a number of initiatives would be delivered under the Program over the next 12 months to empower the arts industry to recover and respond to the emergent opportunities created by the pandemic.
The Minister said the Program would create more than 80 job opportunities for artists and arts professionals and advance growth of the sector through partnerships with organisations to deliver projects on behalf of artsACT.
She said Program initiatives included the Creative Recovery and Resilience Forum with the University of Canberra (UC); eight residencies with UC and Ainslie + Gorman Arts Centres; three new works to be commissioned by the City Commissions with Contour 556; a six-month program to connect up to 10 artists with marketing and communications professionals; and a grants program to support small live events to take place across the ACT.
Ms Cheyne said artsACT would also deliver the Creative-in-Residence Project, which is to see two local artists come into the Government to provide new perspectives and explore how their creative skills could foster innovation.
Further information on the artsACT recovery Program can be accessed at this PS News link.
