Strategy to boost arts recovery

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 in local artists, arts organisations, creative enterprises, libraries, galleries and performing arts centres.

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.

Geelong mayor Stephanie Asher said the pandemic has been an incredibly difficult time for the arts and culture industry.

“We’ve seen local creatives turn the challenges of COVID-19 into inspiring and innovative art and projects,” Cr Asher said.

“Council will continue to collaborate with the industry to rebuild the local cultural landscape and make the community’s aspirations come alive.

“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.”

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.

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.

Deputy mayor and chair of the creative communities and culture portfolio Trent Sullivan said the community had a lot to look forward to.

“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.

“Thanks to everyone who helped to shape the strategy and the exciting future we have ahead of us.”