Consider hosting an artist

Community groups are encouraged to nominate a town in Baw Baw Shire to host an “artist in residence” during the annual “Come and Play” Arts Festival in May.

The month-long celebration of local arts, facilitated by Creative Gippsland, is presenting a unique opportunity for one town in each of the six Gippsland regions to host an artist throughout the festival.

Baw Baw Shire mayor Joe Gauci is encouraging community groups and clubs across Baw Baw to nominate their town and shine a spotlight on our creative communities.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to show your community to the world by supporting an exciting cultural event and exchange,” said Cr Gauci. “We are looking for towns that are vibrant, engaged communities who want to support and promote creative arts activity.”

“Having an artist in your community throughout the festival is a great way to kick start a new project, enliven an area, engage the community and have some fun,” he added.

Expressions of interest are being sought now so locations on offer and wants of the communities are known ahead of advertising for artists.

The Walhalla Board of Management hosted visual artist Anne Riggs as “artist in residence” during this year’s arts festival. Anne shared her passion for sketch art and photography with locals and visitors throughout the festival, attracting large crowds to the area.

“We know more than one community will be interested, so to help us select the right community let us know why yours would be a great choice to host one of the artists and activities,” said Cr Gauci.

Applications are welcome from any town/district but must come via a community not-for-profit group and ensure the concept of an “artist in residence” has community support.

Only one application from a town/district can be accepted.

Applications close on Wednesday, February 7 at 5.00pm.

For further information, call Baw Baw Shire’s cultural development team on 5624 2407 or email karen.whitaker-taylor@baw bawshire.vic.gov.au