$1.3 million to support Victoria’s thriving arts scene

• New arts funding program invests $1.3 million in Victoria’s arts sector
• More than 2,200 Victorian artists will receive grants – more than a third will receive Victorian Coalition Government funding for the first time
• The Victorian Coalition Government is committed to strengthening the state’s reputation as an arts and cultural leader

Minister for the Arts Heidi Victoria today announced that $1.3 million will be injected into Victoria’s independent arts sector and directly benefit more than 2,200 Victorian artists.

The first round of the Victorian Coalition Government’s VicArts Grants will support 86 projects by some of the state’s most creative artists and arts organisations.

“Arts and culture are part of our way of life in this state. I want to ensure that the richness and diversity of artistic practice across Victoria continues to flourish. Our grants provide career development opportunities for artists and allow all Victorians to access the broadest possible range of arts experiences,’’ Ms Victoria said.

The supported projects include contemporary music recordings, dance projects, operas, comic books, exhibitions, community collaborations, residencies, tours and festivals. It also includes opportunities for engagement in the Asian region. Artists at all career stages are represented.

“Congratulations to all of the recipients, not just for your grants, but the role you play in developing and strengthening the reputation of Victoria’s arts sector, at home and abroad,’’ Ms Victoria said.

The arts sector contributes $11.4 billion for the state economy each year and contributes up to 110,000 jobs. It assists the Coalition Government’s broader goal of supporting growth and innovation in all sectors across the state.’’

Sue Roff, Executive Director of Arts Project Australia, which nurtures and promotes artists with an intellectual disability, welcomed the funding announcement.
‘

‘We’re thrilled that our Coalition Government grant will help us advocate for the inclusion of our artists within contemporary art practice, especially in our 40th year,” Ms Roff said.

The next round of applications to the VicArts Grants program close in March 2014, for projects commencing in July. Find out more about the VicArts Grants program and see a full list of recipients at www.arts.vic.gov.au