FUNDING SUPPORTS QUEENSLAND ARTISTS TO FURTHER DEVELOP SKILLS

29 emerging and established Queensland artists will share in over $185,000 in funding through the Individuals Fund, helping to further their careers.

Member for Nicklin, Rob Skelton said more than $2000 would go to a project in their local electorate.

“It’s fantastic to see this funding delivered to support artists and arts workers in our local area,” Mr Skelton said.

“This funding will help Ms Anna Loren deliver their play COMFORT, which was a finalist in the Queensland Premier’s Drama Awards.”

“There’s no doubt that Queensland’s artists and arts workers have been heavily impacted by COVID-19, and our government is committed to supporting them throughout our recovery.”

Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said this funding would provide support to artists, and boost employment opportunities which is a key part of Queensland’s COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan.

“It is vital that we continue to support artists to develop professionally, securing Queensland’s inherent talent, creativity and innovation for the future,” Minister Enoch said.

“The 29 successful projects, spanning contemporary music, dance, theatre, visual arts and writing, showed original thinking and the opportunity for major sector growth through learning, creating connections and developing new work.

“The arts are key to delivering our plan for economic recovery, each year contributing $8.5 billion into the state’s economy and supporting more than 92,000 jobs for Queenslanders.

“With this latest round of funding, the Palaszczuk Government is investing in key elements that assist artists to not only retain their talents and create work, but also gives them the opportunity to establish invaluable connections with renowned artists within the industry,” Ms Enoch said.

“COMFORT is a semi-autobiographical work, responding to whispers that my own Grandmother may have been a 'Comfort Woman’ in 1940s Japan-occupied Burma.” Ms Loren said.

“It is a project that is incredibly close to my heart and I feel extremely fortunate to have the support of Arts QLD as I work towards the full realisation of my play.”

“It has been an especially difficult time for the performing arts sector and support like this means that I can continue to make meaningful work and engage other artists to help bring that work to life.”

For more information about the Individuals Fund and recipients visit: www.arts.qld.gov.au