RAV connects artists

By Lachlan Ellis

Local artists have thanked Regional Arts Victoria (RAV) for providing a program locally last week, connecting artists and providing fantastic one-on-one advice.

RAV is an independent, not-for-profit group that partners with every level of government to support regional Victorians in making, participating in, and experiencing creative work.

Last week RAV brought its ‘RAV in Residence’ program to Moorabool Shire, with a Creative Funding Forum and Network & Nibbles session on Tuesday afternoon, and private chats held across Tuesday and Wednesday.

Mount Egerton artist Min Ray – whose ‘Superstellar’ piece many would recognise at Lerderderg Library – made full use of the program, attending both events and having a one-on-one chat with RAV’s Rhiannon Poley.

Ms Ray said the day was fantastic, and she’d love to see more support for local artists in the future.

“It was very good, it was so informative. I’ve learnt a lot, and I feel like there’s a lot of support out there for artists like myself in regional areas. The staff members are so approachable, and very helpful. It was a fantastic experience,” she told the Moorabool News.

“I had a meeting with Rhiannon on Tuesday. I had a few project ideas and she was able to guide me to see which funding might be suitable for certain projects. Not necessarily all of my projects fit well for grants…on Tuesday there was FRRR and Creative Partnerships Australia available to chat to as well, and Moorabool Shire Council as well.

“It was super helpful.”

Ms Poley, who is RAV’s Membership Engagement Coordinator, said the feedback from local artists had been “really positive”.

“I don’t think anyone’s had a bad word to say…they’ve had responses like ‘I feel really energised’, ‘I have lots of ideas now’, ‘I’ve got a lot of homework to do now’. It’s been very very positive,” she said.

“When we’re doing the one-on-ones, I feel like that’s the most valuable. We’re able to tailor the advice to specifically what their needs are, rather than them going to a forum and trying to gather some information and leaving with more questions, they’re able to sit with us and have really earnest discussions about their projects and goals.

“Because of our connections, we’re able to point them in the right direction.”

For more information on RAV in Residence, and the other fantastic programs RAV run, visit www.rav.net.au.

The local RAV in Residence sessions were supported by Moorabool Shire Council.