Hamilton arts fund open for applications
$100,000 is up for grabs by local performing arts groups.
This year Creative Waikato will be administering Hamilton’s Performing Arts Contestable Fund for the first time.
The $100,000 fund supports projects that contribute to the development of sustainable performing arts programmes, audience growth, and skills enhancement of performing arts organisations or practitioners in Hamilton.
Projects must be consistent with council goals, particularly of the city being “a fun place to live with a vibrant arts scene”. Ideally, projects should also celebrate Hamilton’s people and cultures.
In addition, projects must also align with Hamilton’s Arts Agenda which aims to make the arts part of everyday experience and raise the profile of the city’s identity through development of public art.
CEO of Creative Waikato Sarah Nathan says the Hamilton Arts Agenda was created to support the council’s vision of Hamilton as a city that celebrates all arts.
“In order to turn that vision into a reality, the city must support high quality, sustainable arts programmes that enhance the reputation of the city and deliver fantastic outcomes for local audiences. The Performing Arts Contestable Fund is a brilliant way for council to show that support in a tangible way”.
Funding is open to new and existing performing artists and groups that have shown the ability to produce performing art programmes in Hamilton.
Previous grant recipients include the Hamilton Community Arts Council to fund the Hamilton Fringe Festival this year.
Nathan said Creative Waikato had established itself as a strong conduit for the arts sector since it was established 12 months ago and therefore is able to work closely with the arts community to help ensure the best utilisation of the fund.
Applications close Thursday, October 10, at 4pm.
Specific purpose and criteria information about the fund and application forms are available on the Creative Waikato website, www.creativewaikato.co.nz.
