Funding supports Queensland artists to further develop skills

29 emerging and established Queensland artists will share in over $185,000 in funding through the Individuals Fund, helping to further their careers.

Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said this funding would provide support to artists, and boost employment opportunities which is a key part of Queensland’s COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan.

“It is vital that we continue to support artists to develop professionally, securing Queensland’s inherent talent, creativity and innovation for the future,” Minister Enoch said.   

“The 29 successful projects, spanning contemporary music, dance, theatre, visual arts and writing, showed original thinking and the opportunity for major sector growth through learning, creating connections and developing new work.

“The arts are key to delivering our plan for economic recovery, each year contributing $8.5 billion into the state’s economy and supporting more than 92,000 jobs for Queenslanders.

“With this latest round of funding, the Palaszczuk Government is investing in key elements that assist artists to not only retain their talents and create work, but also gives them the opportunity to establish invaluable connections with renowned artists within the industry,” Ms Enoch said.

The funding will support artists like Sunshine Coast musician Ayla Scanlan who will use the funding to support her debut album featuring collaborations with a celebrated list of artists including Reuben Styles (Peking Duk), Sam Cromack (Ball Park Music), and Danny Harley (The Kite String Tangle).

It will also help Cairns-based Patrick Mau to host a PowerVerse live stream podcast at Bulmba-ja, while Gympie-based, autistic artist Aspy Jones will work on a creative collaboration with ARIA award-winning producer Pailie Bromley and Steve Summers for a new body of work to be launched in 2022.

Successful recipient Maddie Nixon said the funding would support the creative development of the new work The Parable People.

“The support of this work allows me to complete the creation of a story that is quintessentially Queensland, but universally relevant, especially in our current climate,” Ms Nixon said.

“The development of this script and potential presentation of this work will elevate my career as a writer on a deep and profound level.”

For more information about the Individuals Fund and recipients visit: www.arts.qld.gov.au.

ENDS

Media Contact: Debbie Turner 0437 859 987