Community support needed to empower local artists

GEELONG Arts Centre is calling on the community to contribute to the support of young and emerging artists across the region.

Its Church Giving Campaign aims to raise funds to transform the interior of the mid-1800s church located in the heart of the centre.

The redevelopment follows its government-backed $140 million Little Malop Street upgrade, which opened in August.

Geelong Arts Centre chief executive officer and creative director, Joel McGuinness, said the transformation of the church was the “last piece of the puzzle”.

Split across two levels, the venue will feature a performance space suitable for functions and events, as well as support spaces for artists, including green rooms, rehearsal spaces and dressing rooms.

“We think about it as a testing ground for new work and it might be your first paid gig as an artist,” Mr McGuinness said.

“It’s that opportunity for artists to really hone their craft here in Geelong.”

Chair of Geelong Performing Arts Centre Trust, Lesley Alway said the church also had important historical significance for the centre.

“People have a lot of affection for that space so we’re really keen to bring it back for new generations of artists and audiences to appreciate,” she said.

“It will be an incredible match of the old church with new-age technology to bring it into relevance for young artists.”

Through a grants and gifts program, Geelong Arts Centre hope to use the church venue to provide both access and revenue streams for artists, giving them the opportunity and confidence to experiment with creative works in a supported environment.

“I just know how much it means to have these kinds of opportunities and these kinds of facilities in your hometown,” Mr McGuinness said.

“Lots of artists that we’ve spoken to…have to put up their own money to be able to mount a season of a show and we’re wanting to be able to help that transition.”

There are several ways to contribute to the campaign, including naming a seat across the centre’s major theatres.

Geelong Arts Centre will also hold its inaugural Giving Day on November 9 where all donations received will be matched by generous donors.

Both Ms Alway and Mr McGuinness agreed donating was “an investment in the future creative generations of Geelong”.

“It’s really important that we send a clear message to young and emerging artists to say that we support you,” Mr McGuinness said.

“There’s a real place at Geelong Arts Centre – and there always will be a place – for young and new and emerging talent.”

Head to geelongartscentre.org.au