New and established artists, creative practitioners, and producers are invited to apply for Noosa Council's 2024/25 Annual Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) grants.
With the application period now open, this is a great opportunity to secure funding for creative projects and professional development, Ruby Donohoe, Noosa Council Cultural Development Officer said.
"RADF is significantly changing with more money now on offer – up to $10,000 per grant - plus more time to write applications," Ms Donohoe said.
The deadline is October 22, 2024, and the funded activities can occur anytime between January - December 2025.
The latest round saw an investment of over $35,000 awarded to six successful applicants. These grants have enabled local artists and organisations to launch innovative projects that celebrate and enrich the cultural fabric of Noosa.
Councillor Karen Finzel said arts and culture are a big part of what makes Noosa unique.
"Fuelling creative expression and participation through programs like RADF empowers the arts to play a vital role in our lives, elevates innovation as an economic driver, and generates important conversations within communities," Cr Finzel said.
Among the exciting initiatives funded recently are Noosa-to-Milan Fashion Week textile art tours by Simone Leao (Outer Art Studio), a new play by Catbird Theatre Company for ages 5 and under, a new youth-led production by Little Seed Theatre Company and award-winning actor and writer James Millar, and a temporary public art project celebrating love in many languages led by artist and educator Sophy Blake and presenting partner Visit Noosa Junction.
Another RADF project is Public Sketchbook which enables Noosa artist, Tess Miller, to step out of the ceramic studio and into the world of public art under the mentorship of mural artist Alison Mooney. Alison Mooney's project Public Sketchbook will take place in Sunshine Beach and is designed to create space for artists to explore 'bold, untested ideas' in the public domain, in collaboration with an established artist.
"Public Sketchbook is a response to the lack of legal walls in the region. Public facing walls where artists are allowed to paint, explore, practice their work on a large scale provide the community with an ever-changing source of fresh ideas, energy, plus perspectives that change quickly," Mooney said.
Keep your eyes peeled for Tess Miller's upcoming work exploring the idea of 'imperfect forms for an imperfect world'.
To assist eligible applicants, Noosa Council will provide resources and guidance on the application process.
