Bold creative ideas supported with seed grants

THE Surf Coast Shire has revealed this year’s successful DEVELOP-funded artists who will each receive $3,000 grants to take their art to the next level.

Winchelsea visual artist Louise Hall, Aireys Inlet author Gregory Day, textile artist Kim Wiebenga of Lorne, Moggs Creek environmental artist and educator Peter Day, and Lorne Film were recognised for their bold and aspirational ideas in the creative sector.

The Arts Development Seed Fund aims to support artists and their professional practice in response to the devastating impacts that COVID-19 had on the arts sector.

This year’s successful applicants presented a range of innovative ideas including hinterland art school, a novel set in a coastal hamlet, an experimental textile project as well visual and environment projects surrounding the ocean and Otways.

Artists and their chosen creative discipline were assessed on merit, impact and viability.

Cr Rose Hodge highlighted the depth and level of diversity presented in the 2022 applications and credited the community for their amazing work.

“We know our community has a strong connection to our natural environment, so it was fascinating – although not surprising – to see that theme shine through in a number of the applications,” she said.

“This included Lorne Film’s concept plan for The Woman By The Water, Gregory Day’s plans for his next novel The Coming of the Dew, and arts activist Peter Day’s project that will research the decline of the barracouta,” Cr Hodge said.

Cr Hodge praised the local creatives who took part in the process and was thrilled that the program and grant allocations would be used to drive the output of the artists and producers going forward.

“One of our council goals is to acknowledge the value of arts and creativity and nurture its growth.

“The Arts Development Seed Fund is doing precisely that.

“We are excited to see how it will support the selected artists to flourish even further.”