A MAJOR annual live music program and live music precincts are among the key initiatives in a 10-year plan to develop and strengthen Greater Geelong’s arts and culture scene.<\/p>\n
The council has adopted its Arts and Cultural Strategy 2021-31, which aims to stimulate arts and cultural activity, skills development and boost career pathways by investing in local artists, arts organisations, creative enterprises, libraries, galleries and performing arts centres.<\/p>\n
More than 1,700 people, including creatives, the broader community, the Geelong COVID Arts Recovery Advisory Panel, councillors and Arts Industry Council Victoria were involved in developing the strategy, through a survey, workshops, focus groups and interviews.<\/p>\n
Geelong mayor Stephanie Asher said the pandemic has been an incredibly difficult time for the arts and culture industry.<\/p>\n
“We’ve seen local creatives turn the challenges of COVID-19 into inspiring and innovative art and projects,” Cr Asher said.<\/p>\n
“Council will continue to collaborate with the industry to rebuild the local cultural landscape and make the community’s aspirations come alive.<\/p>\n
“The planned initiatives mark a promising time for the creative industry through new music programs and arts opportunities, increasing the community’s access to collections and amplifying more voices.”<\/p>\n
Initiatives proposed over the next four years include arts and cultural programs in non-arts venues such as shopping centres and at sporting events; supporting diverse communities to host festivals and events; and developing a business case for future public art works in support of Geelong’s designation as a UNESCO City of Design.<\/p>\n
The strategy plans a collaboration with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners to conserve, digitise and interpret artworks and artefacts from the city’s collections, and continue to deliver competitive one-off project funding and annual operational funding for local artists and arts organisations.<\/p>\n
Deputy mayor and chair of the creative communities and culture portfolio Trent Sullivan said the community had a lot to look forward to.<\/p>\n
“The strategy will pave the way for a thriving and enduring arts and culture scene in Greater Geelong, that will speak to a diverse range of people and contribute to a strong economy,” Cr Sullivan said.<\/p>\n
“Thanks to everyone who helped to shape the strategy and the exciting future we have ahead
\nof us.”<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
A MAJOR annual live music program and live music precincts are among the key initiatives in a 10-year plan to develop and strengthen Greater Geelong’s arts and culture scene. The council has adopted its Arts and Cultural Strategy 2021-31, which aims to stimulate arts and cultural activity, skills development and boost career pathways by investing […]<\/p>\n