COUNTRY Aboriginal artists and arts organisations are invited to apply for NSW Government funding to support local projects that encourage people to explore and express their cultural identities.
Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall is encouraging all Aboriginal artists and organisations in the region to apply for the funding which will allow them to share their stories with their communities.
“The Northern Tablelands has a vast array of Aboriginal artistic talent which could be fostered by the NSW Aboriginal Regional Arts Fund,” he said.
“Aboriginal art encourages greater appreciation of Aboriginal culture in the wider community and enables Aboriginal artists to express their creativity
“Participation in the arts promotes personal and collective wellbeing, as well as contributing strongly to an innovative and robust local economy and the NSW Government is committed to increasing participation.”
Mr Marshall said the state government was proud to support a vibrant, distinctive and contemporary Aboriginal arts and cultural sector in NSW.
“This funding will help individuals to build on their existing abilities and talents, and assist organisations in strengthening their skills and capacity,” he said. “I am sure that communities across the region will enjoy the benefits of additional funding to their local arts scenes.”
The fund supports projects that:
• Enable Aboriginal communities in regional NSW to explore and express their cultural identities;
• Engage and promote regional Aboriginal artists, arts and culture in NSW;
• Encourage people to engage with Aboriginal arts and cultures;
• Build the capacity and sustainability of Aboriginal arts organisations in regional NSW;
• Increase professional and skills development opportunities for Aboriginal artists living in regional NSW.
The NSW Aboriginal Regional Arts Fund offers up to $5,000 for individual professional artists and up to $15,000 for organisations. The closing date for applications is 14 March 2016.
For more information and to apply, visit www.arts.nsw.gov.au