ArtPlay is on the lookout for artists keen to tackle Australia's climate crisis, as part of the next round of applications for the New Ideas Lab.
Artists are being invited to pitch their ideas for projects to be created and developed with children and families at ArtPlay, with support of between $10,000 and $20,000 available.
Chair of the Arts, Culture and Heritage portfolio Councillor Rohan Leppert said the focus for the 2020 New Ideas Lab would be on how artists can respond to the climate crisis.
"The City of Melbourne is part of the growing global movement that recognises and is seeking to respond to the climate emergency, and we recognise that everyone has a role to play," Cr Leppert said.
"Through the New Ideas Lab we're giving artists the opportunity to realise their projects with the involvement of children from the community. This is a unique chance for artists to work directly with young minds to help children bring their ideas to life."
Shortlisted artists will be invited to pitch their ideas in person to a panel of four children and four adults with equal voting rights. If successful, projects will be given the support needed to realise their visions.
The ArtPlay New Ideas Lab has fostered numerous projects which have gone on to tour locally, nationally and internationally, including I See you Like This created by Jessica Wilson with Matilda Woodroofe which has toured in Belgium and Germany.
Applicants do not necessarily need experience working with children as long as they have a passion and enthusiasm for involving them in the creative process. Mentors are provided recommended for those with little experience in this area.
Former New Ideas Lab artist Daniele Poidomani said ArtPlay offers one of the best opportunities to discover how to work with, and for, children.
"Don't be discouraged if you aren't sure how to implement your idea. The New Ideas Lab is about exploring ideas and ArtPlay will help you find the best way to produce your project," Ms Poidomani said.
"The dedication and focus the whole of the ArtPlay team puts on the children's experience is inspiring and quite rare to find."
ArtPlay is the City of Melbourne's unique arts studio where artists and children (aged from babies to 12 years) collaborate to create innovative arts experiences together.
Applications for the 2020 New Ideas Lab will remain open until 5pm, Friday 27 March.
For more details on information sessions and guidelines, or to apply, visit the City of Melbourne ArtPlay website.
