Benjamin Millar
Maribyrnong Council is helping creative artists get back on track post-lockdown via the 2022 Artist Residency Programs.
The residencies are designed to support local artists with spaces and resources to test ideas, develop their arts practice, and creatively develop a new work, all while making their mark on Maribyrnong’s creative community.
Residencies are on offer in the heart of Footscray at the Artsbox, a converted shipping container based outside Footscray library, and the Bluestone Church Arts Space, a dedicated small performance venue.
Artbox is open to emerging or established artists of all disciplines seeking an intimate studio space, while the Bluestone Church Arts Space is for theatre-makers, dancers, musicians or multi-disciplinary artists.
Arts and Culture Maribyrnong provide a stipend of $2000 toward residencies at the Bluestone Church Arts Space and $500 for residencies at Artsbox.
In-kind use of these spaces is provided, along with marketing across Arts and Culture channels and beyond.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to produce at least one opportunity for the community to view the work developed, or share their practice in some way.
The First Nations Creators Program additionally provides an opportunity for professional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists in Melbourne’s West to lead the creation of a new work anywhere within the City of Maribyrnong in 2022.
A one-off payment of $10,000 supports the costs of a new work to be presented or exhibited in Maribyrnong, marketing and the support of a First Nations producer.
Former Artsbox resident, Fiona Waters said she found the Artsbox space a great place to work on her own creations, with the calm and solitude of a studio space.
“My experience in the Artsbox was really fun, easy and supportive,” she said.
“The staff at both the library and the Council were really supportive and enthusiastic about my plans for the community class and mini-exhibit.”
Water said they also provided great advice and assistance in the lead up to the classes and facilitated the community connection she was hoping for, which allowed anyone to have a go and join in.
Mayor Michael Clarke said he is excited to see what comes out of these programs in 2022.
“Our Artist Residencies and First Nations Creators Program not only add to the vibrant and creative nature of our City, they also provide opportunity for local artists to leave their mark on Maribyrnong – all while further developing their career,” he said.
Both the First Nations Creators Program and Artist Residencies are open to artists of all disciplines who live or work in Melbourne’s west (local government areas of Maribyrnong, Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Moonee Valley, Melton or Wyndham).
Applicants who live or work outside Melbourne’s West but can demonstrate a deep connection to the City of Maribyrnong are also eligible to apply.
Applications for Artist Residencies close on November 14 and the First Nations Creators Program on November 28.
Further details: maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/artsandculture
