Local artists aspiring to further their public arts practice have an opportunity to gain valuable mentoring and hands-on experience through a new funded program.
The Arts Exchange Program, supported by Bundaberg Regional Council through the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), will fund one selected artist to take part in a structured professional development opportunity with Sunshine Coast-based street artist Sarah Sculley.
Applications are open to emerging and developing artists based in the Bundaberg Region, with expressions of interest to open following a free information session on Tuesday 21 July.
Artists who attend the information session will be given preference for selection, along with FIND Summit attendees and participants from the Katie Whyte Masterclass.
Mayor Helen Blackburn said the program presented a significant opportunity for artists interested in expanding their practice into contemporary mural and public art.
“The Arts Exchange Program is a fantastic opportunity for artists in our region to expand into public art practice,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“The funding covers travel, accommodation and daily expenses for the duration of the program.
“This is designed to remove financial barriers so the selected artist can fully engage in the experience.
“I encourage interested artists to attend the info session to meet Sarah, learn about the program and ask any questions to support your application.”
Information session
Interested artists can register for a free information session to be conducted online on Microsoft Teams.
When: Tuesday 21 July
Time: 5.30 – 7 pm
Register: Find more information and register here.
Sarah Sculley is a Sunshine Coast-based street artist who specialises in large-scale murals and contemporary street art and is known for her vibrant artworks that combine colour, typography and the female form.
Since her first solo exhibition in Shanghai in 2005, Sarah’s work has been exhibited internationally and featured in publications including Home Design Magazine, Grand Designs and idN.
During the session, Sarah will share examples of her work, talk about her experience and speak about what shapes her public art practice.
Application details and the EOI link will be available on the SmartyGrants website following the information session.
RADF support
The Arts Exchange Program is solely funded by RADF to a value of up to $10,000.
RADF is a partnership between the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland and Bundaberg Regional Council to promote local arts and culture in regional Queensland.
Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) supports delivery of Queensland’s Time to Shine, a 10-year strategy for arts and culture and its priority to strengthen Queenslanders’ access to enriching arts and cultural experiences.
“The Crisafulli Government’s multi-year RADF investment provides greater funding certainty for 59 regional councils, streamlined program management and red tape reduction, while boosting the state’s vibrant arts and cultural scene,” Minister Langbroek said.
“Each year, RADF programs reach more than one million people across Queensland, securing local arts experiences and cultural tourism opportunities in regional areas, as well as supporting local artists in the lead up to Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“For 34 years, Arts Queensland has partnered with regional councils to co-invest in local arts initiatives that generate jobs, community engagement and help boost local economies. “The Crisafulli Government will continue to support these vital collaborations.”
