More than 1.2 million people across NSW will experience an exciting range of cultural activities and programs spanning every artform, thanks to an investment of more than $4.1 million from round 2 of the NSW Government's Arts and Cultural Funding Program for 2022/23.
Minister for the Arts John Graham said 81 exceptional individuals, groups and organisations, employing almost 5000 artists and cultural workers, will create homegrown arts and culture projects and experiences, including music, literature, visual art, dance, theatre and festivals.
"More than $4.1m in funding contributes an important boost for NSW artists and cultural organisations that generate so much social and cultural capital for NSW. As this government looks to change the state's priorities from focusing only on infrastructure to also focusing on people, I acknowledge this point: culture is a human right," Mr Graham said.
"Funding these projects ensures our stories and lived experience are reflected in the local music, art, theatre, books and other artforms we love. I'm pleased to note around 40% of successful projects will be delivered and enjoyed in regional NSW.
"I also note this year has seen one of the highest number of Creative Koori project applications, and 13.5% of all funded projects are First Nations led."
Mujaay Ganma Foundation Aboriginal Corporation is among the successful recipients, receiving investment of $59,800 for its Julumbawambi project. Julumbawambi will record 5 Gumbaynggirr language songs, gather stories from across 5 generations and develop 5 performances to be presented at the Bowraville Theatre, together with a series of facilitated workshops.
Mujaay Ganma Foundation Thomas Stanbrook said, "Country and culture are at the heart of our work at the Mujaay Ganma Foundation. The Julumbawambi (Along the Generations) Project will provide a space for community to improve communication and understanding across generations.
"We expect to gain greater pride in Gumbaynggirr Country and culture through this journey and its artistic endeavours."
NSW artists and organisations submitted a total of 424 applications, making this latest round of funding one of the largest from the sector in both volume and value. The 45% increase compared to the previous year signals the NSW arts and cultural sector is experiencing a resurgence in confidence to create exceptional art and cultural programs again after the disruption of COVID-19. The highest percentage increase was for Creative Koori First Nations projects, with 55% more projects put forward for consideration.
All applications funded through round 2 were assessed against published criteria and ranked in order of merit by the Artform Advisory Boards.
The combination of round 1 and round 2 2022/23 Arts and Cultural Funding Program outcomes will deliver a total of $10,354,965 to support of the arts and cultural sector.
View the full list of round 2 recipients.
