By Georgia Parsonson
The local arts industry will receive a funding boost of over $800,000 as part of the Queensland Arts Showcase Program (QASP), which aims to provide Queenslanders with multi-cultural, socially relevant artistic initiatives throughout the state.
“The arts are key to delivering the Palaszczuk Government’s plan for economic recovery, each year injecting $8.5 billion into the state’s economy and supporting more than 92,000 jobs for Queenslanders,” Leanne Enoch, Minister for the Arts, said. She further indicated that the funding would support the creation and development of new artistic programs that would recognise local issues, connect communities, and create new employment opportunities.
Since the QASP was opened in 2015, the Queensland government has provided more than $18 million of funding to over 500 applicants. With an increased focus on social and community issues and rising employment rates, companies and events such as Lucient Productions, Wow Australia 2021, and Floating Land Biennale 2021 will offer Queenslanders the opportunity to enjoy a variety of original performances and exhibitions throughout the state.
Ashleigh White, a performer from Gogi Dance Collective, said the funding greatly assisted the company to open up connections with new networks beyond the Gold Coast with plans to present the next stage of their work this year. “This will also create a model for touring so that the company can take work further around the country’s lawn bowls clubs.”
For more information regarding the Queensland Arts Showcase Program, visit www.arts.qld.gov.au.