City of Melbourne Council has allocated more than $175,000 across 49 projects through its 2022 Quick Response Arts Grants program.
The Council says it is the only fast turnaround micro-grant program offering such a level of support in Australia, with the latest funding round supporting nearly 350 artists to develop and present their work in public – including live theatre, dance, music, films, written pieces and visual art.
“The resurgence of Melbourne’s creative sector is vital for our city’s recovery, so we’re proud to support hundreds of artists to develop and deliver vibrant new artistic works,” said Lord Mayor, Sally Capp.
“This is a one-of-a-kind program in the country, which has supported nearly 1,000 projects to date – adding to Melbourne’s reputation as Australia’s cultural capital.
“The high number of applications received this year shows there’s a huge appetite for grant funding that artists can put to work as soon as possible.”
Successful recipients include:
- Aboriginal artist Amy Dowd for the composition and development of a solo debut album.
- Artists for Kids Culture (pictured) for the artsbus mobile arts studio, bringing inclusive and meaningful arts opportunities to kids aged 5-12.
- Neurodiverse artists Kin Francis and KITTLING produce Good Trip: a two-night nightclub for Disabled and Neurodiverse audiences.
- Coady Green and Indigenous narrator Tiriki Onus for a 45-minute piano work composed by Linda Kouvaras.
- Snuff Puppets for an ornate 14-metre inflatable artwork representing the anatomical structures of the inner ear.
Council says it received a record number of high-quality applications to the program this year. Of those who applied, more than 65% identify as LGBTIQ+ and around 50% represent culturally and linguistically diverse artists, Council said in a statement.
“Sometimes the best creative ideas are born under pressure, so it’s grant programs like this that really make a difference – allowing our artists, musicians, dancers, filmmakers and performers to bring their ideas to life and quickly,” said Creative portfolio lead, Councillor Jamal Hakim.
“The Quick Response Arts Grants program is the most nimble of its kind in Australia – with a program that delivers results in as little as nine days from the closing date. This forms part of Council’s commitment to the city’s creative resurgence.”
“We’re giving artists an incredible opportunity to share their work with all Melburnians and visitors alike – with as many as 850,000 people expected to enjoy these pieces over the next year.”
For more information and the full list of successful recipients, visit the City of Melbourne’s website.
