GRID Series to empower Geelong’s next

The GRID Series artist development initiative has begun in Geelong for a second year, with a new cohort of talented local artists selected to participate in the six-month program.

The program is supported by the Victorian government and the City of Greater Geelong and aims to connect emerging artists in historically under-resourced, outer suburban communities with resources and award-winning industry experts to empower their craft.

This year, the program will see four early career musicians team up with an all-star group of industry experts to develop their craft, create and record new music and perform live across the region.

The up-and-coming artists selected for the program include indie/folk artist Madeline Cope, Spanish-Australian soul artist Emilia Fol, Māori/Croatian MC Tonite and singer-songwriter Isabella Khalife, who performs under the moniker FARAH.

Each participating artist will also be joined this year by a designated “hype person”, a friend or family member nominated during the application process who will support them behind the scenes to develop and plan for the future.

 

GRID Series project manager N’fa F-Jones said the “fantastic and unique program” offers a platform for unseen and unheard artists to not only raise their profile, but to connect with like-minded creatives and high-end mentors, producers and filmmakers.

The Australian hip hop artist also celebrated the positive impact the program has had on the growth and experience levels of creators and performers across the country, with more than 65 artists benefiting from the initiative since its launch in 2013.

“It’s what arts development is all about,” he said.

Previous industry mentors in the GRID series include award-winning songwriter and producer Joel “Joelistics” Ma; ARIA-nominated engineer, songwriter and producer Becki Whitton; acclaimed producer Ariel Blum; music festival programmer Rich Moffat; and director of Broken Leg PR Monique Matosic.

Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said the city was thrilled to partner with the Victorian government and GRID Series again to support local talent and celebrated the opportunity for Geelong artists to access the “support they need to pursue their dreams”.

“Our region can’t wait to see how these up-and-coming artists develop and grow creatively during this once-in-a-lifetime program,” he said.

Geelong MP Christine Couzens also welcomed the program’s return to the region.

“The GRID Series is a fantastic opportunity for our local artists to showcase their talent, gain invaluable industry experience and build thriving music careers right here in Geelong,” she said.

For more information, head to gridseries.com.au