A $195,000 relief fund will be available for eligible regional art galleries that had to cancel exhibitions and close their doors due to COVID-19.
The funding will ensure the galleries have the capacity required to host visual art exhibitions and activities in the future as part of the Regional Exhibition Touring Boost (RETB). It will assist recovery in re-establishing vital community arts activity.
The first RETB exhibition was on tour, and the second one was about to commence, when regional border closures and physical distancing restrictions saw public galleries close across the State.
The RETB is an $8 million election commitment creating more opportunities for regional Western Australians to engage with visual arts, by increasing the number of touring exhibitions to regional towns and communities.
The RETB is delivered by ART ON THE MOVE (AOTM) and the Art Gallery of WA, and is managed by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries. AOTM will administer the fund.
As stated by Culture and the Arts Minister David Templeman:
"Since the first tour, the RETB has created positive outcomes for regional artists, audiences and communities.
"This relief fund will provide immediate support for the galleries to bounce back in these difficult times - ensuring they are well equipped to host RETB exhibitions and in rebuilding vital community activity and culture across the State."
As stated by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
"Regional art galleries play a crucial role in their communities, providing opportunities for local artists and the general community to engage more in culture and the arts.
"This funding will ensure the galleries are well equipped to provide this important service - but also to present high-calibre works from the State Art Collection to the regions."
