MORE CAREER OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUNG ARTISTS

Aspiring young artists will have more opportunities to establish careers in Queensland’s creative industries sector with the expansion of a Brisbane youth arts space.

Arts Minister, Rod Welford today unveiled Youth Arts Queensland’s refurbished Transit Lounge, which provides young people with resources, training and advice on careers in the creative industries.

“Our Government has funded the Transit Lounge’s expansion so young artists will have more opportunities to showcase their work,” Mr Welford said.

“The Transit Lounge has supported hundreds of young artists and artworkers to develop their skills and find employment in the arts and creative industries since it was established in 2003.

“It provides invaluable one-on-one advice on career and education pathways, resources, professional development workshops, networking opportunities and arts and cultural gateways for young artists aged 15-25.

“This is part of an investment by our Government of just over $1 million over three years to provide more opportunities for emerging young artists.

“As well as the expansion of the Transit Lounge at its home at the Judith Wright Centre of Contemporary Arts in Fortitude Valley, a new website is also being set up to make the Transit Lounge more accessible.

“The website will feature online resources, forums and an event planner for young artists and artworkers, no matter where they live in Queensland.

Mr Welford said joint funding between Arts Queensland, the Department of Housing and the Caboolture Shire Council would also allow Youth Arts Queensland to extend its support to young artists in the Caboolture area through its new outreach service.

“This is the first regional roll-out of the successful Transit Lounge project and it will deliver programs designed specifically for the Caboolture community,” he said.

Mr Welford said the Transit Lounge would also continue to support the Young Artist Mentoring Program, which enables aspiring artists and artworkers to be mentored by industry professionals.

“Almost 100 young artists have benefited from the artistic and professional development opportunities offered by the program since it was established in 2000.”

Media contact: Marnie Stitz 3237 1000 or 0419 734 985