Seven artists and related organisations across Newcastle will share in more than half a million dollars in funding, providing long-term certainty for the city’s creative sector.
The NSW Government this week announced a $576,490 investment through two rounds of the Arts and Cultural Funding Program (ACFP).
The reformed initiative aims to guarantee financial security for groups, moving away from annual applications and delivering multi-year operational support.
Across NSW, more than $7.7 million has been committed to 62 organisations.
It secures two years of funding to employ and develop artists and arts workers, build strategic partnerships and deliver accessible cultural experiences.
Four Newcastle parties were awarded, including Curious Legends ($164,000), The Lock-Up ($150,000), New Annual ($130,000) and Newcastle Art Gallery ($75,000).
A further $57,490 has been allocated to support project funding for three individual local artists.
Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp said the investment recognised the city’s vibrant creative community.
“We’re proudly home to more artists per capita than anywhere else in Australia,” he explained.
“So, it’s fantastic to see four of our organisations assured with multi-year funding.”
The assistance also represents a significant step for City of Newcastle’s (CN) flagship events and cultural institutions.
Newcastle Art Gallery director Lauretta Morton admitted the multi-year support would help sustain both the gallery’s world-class collection and the city’s annual arts festival.
“Securing Create NSW’s funding is incredibly important in backing council’s flagship arts festival, New Annual, and Newcastle Art Gallery’s ongoing commitment to world-class programming,” she said.
“This investment ensures we can continue sharing our $145 million collection with the community and visitors, while also presenting an annual festival that celebrates and grows Newcastle’s creative energy.”
Applications were assessed by the 10 Artform Boards against published criteria, with successful projects selected based on merit and impact.
For more details on funding outcomes, visit create.nsw.gov.au.
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