Newman Governments listens to arts community

Arts Minister Ian Walker today hosted a workshop in Ipswich to discuss the future of arts and culture in Queensland.

Mr Walker said the Newman Government was inviting all Queenslanders to have their say on the roadmap for arts in our great state.

“The intention is to canvass the widest range of voices and views possible through the Arts for all Queenslanders discussion paper and an online survey,” Mr Walker said.

“We know there are many people with innovative ideas and points of view that could improve and strengthen our arts and cultural fabric for this and future generations – we just need to hear from you.”

Mr Walker also announced the five Ipswich Culture Champions who are part of a new initiative to acknowledge people for their commitment and passion to arts and culture.

“Today we recognise and congratulate the latest Culture Champions: Andrew Moritz, Director of the Workshops Rail Museum; Cr Charles Pisasale from Ipswich City Council; Lee Fullarton, founder and director of the Primary Arts Network Ipswich; Kerryanne Farrer, the creative force of Pineapple Productions, and artist Deb Mostert,” he said.

“The Culture Champions program is really important because it lets us recognise our arts leaders, those already celebrated and those whose efforts are all too often unsung.

“We’ve had a great response to this initiative with more than 80 people from across Queensland nominated as Culture Champions.”

Residents can nominate their Culture Champions via email to culturechampions@arts.qld.gov.au and check out the Wall of Fame at www.arts.qld.gov.au/culturechampionswalloffame.

Feedback on Arts for all Queenslanders can be submitted at www.arts.qld.gov.au/AFAQ

[ENDS] 31 July 2013

Media Contact:     Casie Scott     0432 453 225