Professional artists and producers across all art forms and cultural practices are invited to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for Central Coast Council’s Creative Art Central annual program.

Council will commission three successful applicants by providing up to $15,000 to deliver their proposed projects on the Central Coast.

Council’s Community Partnerships Unit Manager, Glenn Cannard said the program has wide flow-on benefits.

“Creative Arts Central allows us to commission professional artists to deliver a variety of new quality projects to help promote, celebrate and activate the Central Coast,” Mr Cannard said.

“This year we’ve increased funding from $10,000 to up to $15,000, to further invest in excellence from creative professionals.

“By providing opportunities to commission new works and investing in the local creative economy, we not only assist with nurturing the growth of local artists but also in promoting stronger partnerships within creative industries on the coast.”

Successful applicants will also have an opportunity to work closely with allocated project partners within key established arts organisations and venues including Central Coast Conservatorium, Gosford Regional Gallery, Laycock Street Community Theatre, NAIDSA, The Art House and specialist staff within Council’s Community Partnerships Unit.

Mayor Jane Smith said Council strongly encouraged diversity amongst applicants from all art backgrounds.

“Professional community members from all culture practices and diverse backgrounds, across all art forms or production are encouraged to submit an EOI,” Mayor Smith said.

“Since its inception in 2011, Creative Art Central has produced a range of new creative initiatives across diverse art forms.

“We’re proud to be able to provide an opportunity to assist creatives who are passionate in their craft.”

Suitable applicants are invited to register their proposed project and submit an EOI before Friday 30 August 2019, within one of the following three categories:

1. Creative Industries – for professional artists who are supported by producers, managers, directors, or curators of spaces and buildings dedicated to showcasing professional works of art;

2. Creative Communities – for professional artists who engage, create, lead and produce creative works or projects that are placemaking in intent, with the support of local communities;

3. Creative Wellbeing – for cultural practitioners who offer a service to individuals and/or small groups with an aim to address, promote and sustain wellbeing.

In 2018, Council commissioned three Creative Art Central project proposals including:

• Glitta Supernova - Naughty Noodle Fun House: delivering two pilot performances (Summer Sizzler and NAIDOC Nylon) at Laycock Street Community Theatre in February and July 2019 to sold out audiences.
• Andrew Lee – Rosaline: script writer Andrew Lee has completed concept development of a feature film drama set on the Central Coast.
• Lisa Edwards – Creating Space: weaving artist Lisa Edwards facilitated a series of workshops around the coast for women from all backgrounds to connect, share stories and build friendships through weaving.

For more information visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/creativeartcentral2019