BLUEPRINT FOR ARTS IN QUEENSLAND UNVEILED

A new blueprint for Queensland’s arts sector released today will provide more professional and economic opportunities for the state’s established and emerging artists.

Arts Minister, Rod Welford, said the Queensland Arts Industry Sector Development Plans 2007-2009 would ensure the sector was more sustainable and marketable both nationally and internationally.

“These plans provide clear goals and actions to take the Queensland arts industry forward,” Mr Welford said. “They are the result of extensive industry and community consultation across the state over the past two years.

“We want to capitalise on Queensland’s unique cultural strengths and characteristics by encouraging creative Queensland art that can be promoted to national and international audiences.

“This is an exciting time for the arts in Queensland following the Government’s recent $322.5 million investment in upgrading and expanding arts and cultural facilities throughout the state, including the new Gallery of Modern Art and State Library.”

Mr Welford said the plans clearly articulated the role of the Government, re-focusing on strengthening partnerships and collaboration within the sector.

“Arts Queensland will focus more on brokering and building strategic alliances and networks to benefit the state’s established and emerging artists,” he said.

“The plans aim to create a stronger and more viable arts sector, improve support for artists and artworkers, develop career paths for emerging artists, and strengthen regional arts.”

The plans include more flexible funding models and a new funding framework.

Mr Welford acknowledged the contribution made by the arts industry and community members during the consultation process for the plans.

“While we cannot adopt every proposal put forward, I believe these plans will ultimately provide a richer cultural experience for all of us by encouraging Queenslanders to tell their own stories through art.”

Arts Queensland will hold briefing sessions on the new plans throughout the state and the plans can be viewed on the Arts Queensland website: www.arts.qld.gov.au

Media contact: Marnie Stitz on 3237 1000 or 0419 734 985