Funding has been awarded to more than 360 artists in the second round of the City of Melbourne's $2 million grant program to support artists affected by the COVID-19 restrictions.
More than $1.1 million in funding was awarded to 366 successful applicants today. This is in addition to $727,000 in funding given to 226 artists two weeks ago.
Lord Mayor Sally Capp said the City of Melbourne received hundreds of applications and has worked hard to provide grants as quickly as possible.
"I'm proud 592 artists have now been funded, with each receiving up to $4000 to create new and exciting artistic works," the Lord Mayor said.
"These grants are a vital lifeline for artists in tough times. Our artistic community is a huge economic and cultural part of our city and will play an important role in Melbourne's economic recovery.
"We've received more than 1600 applications for arts grants funding and will announce more successful applicants soon. However, we know that some artists and creative organisations may miss out because there is such a widespread need for funding in sector and we encourage everyone to get behind our Melbourne arts scene."
Highlights from the second group of successful applicants include:
- An online weaving course from Bronwyn Razem using traditional First Nations weaving techniques;
- A three-act monologue performance from Kate Hood about the world of a wheelchair user;
- A series of artworks reimagining the museological conventions of anatomical display by Nina Sellars;
- A virtual-reality film by Aaron Wilson exploring intimacy and unity in the time of COVID-19 through the eyes of recently arrived refugees and immigrants.
Chair of the Arts, Culture and Heritage portfolio, Councillor Rohan Leppert, said the City of Melbourne had received a high calibre of applications.
"The applications we've received have been both creative and innovative and are a testament to the strength of the city's creative community," Cr Leppert said.
"New works are already in development and we're excited to see them come to life. We're proud to continue supporting our local artists in challenging times. These grants will hopefully provide some relief as we work through the implications of COVID-19 and beyond."
Further successful applicants will be notified in coming weeks. Applications for the arts grants are now closed.
