Funding supports Queensland artists in challenging times

Over half a million dollars will support 67 Queensland artists and arts workers across the state, Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch announced.

The Minister said the arts sector around the world and the people who worked in it had been impacted by the economic fallout of the global coronavirus pandemic, but Queensland was delivering a plan for recovery.

“Our government moved rapidly to respond to the challenges faced by the arts sector due to COVID-19, quickly announcing relief measures which included a $500,000 boost to the Individuals Fund,” Minister Enoch said.

“We are investing in talented individual and independent artists to keep them working, and to support their professional development and projects.

“It’s vital we continue to encourage and support workers to remain in the sector and help secure Queensland’s creativity and innovation into the future.” 

The latest projects showed innovative thinking and delivery in the digital space with funding eligibility extended to encourage applications that focus on building digital skills and creative development, as well as digital adaption.

Recipient Olivia Everitt said the funding of almost $8000 will be used to grow skills in cultural mapping and undertake research and data collection in the South Burnett.

“Support from the Queensland Government will enable me to undertake a period of invaluable professional development to advance my capacity in the regional arts sector,” Ms Everitt said.

“With three years of drought and now COVID-19, it’s challenging to secure income and development opportunities in the arts in my region,

“I’m delighted to be given this opportunity through the Individuals Fund.”

Minister Enoch said the 67 successful projects showcased the vast spectrum of the arts including classical and contemporary music, dance, theatre, visual arts and writing.

“So often our artists are among the first to give their time and talent when times are tough for Queenslanders and through this funding the Palaszczuk Government is now supporting them when they need it most,” Ms Enoch said.

With an additional $22.5 million in funding recently announced, the Palaszczuk Government has now implemented a total of more than $42.5 million of measures to help stabilise and sustain the Queensland arts and cultural sector.

The Individuals Fund helps emerging and established artists and cultural workers to participate in professional and development opportunities.

For more information about Arts Queensland’s Individuals Fund visit www.arts.qld.gov.au.

ENDS

Media Contact: Bridget Druery 0435 221 246