$38.7million arts initiatives launched

More than $38.7million of initiatives to build and sustain Western Australia’s exciting arts and culture sector were launched today.

Culture and Arts Minister Sheila McHale said the seven initiatives, part of the $73million Ignite package, were designed to transform arts and culture activities in WA, and build a foundation for future growth.

“Investment in the arts by Government and business is very important if we are to continue to transform this State into a culturally-rich and vibrant place,” Ms McHale said.

The package includes two initiatives that are the first of their kind in Australia and will promote major productions and philanthropy.

The $5million Major Production Fund will support large scale, WA-produced works over the next four years.

“This fund will enable WA artists to produce ambitious works of international calibre, and provide WA audiences with a greater range of large-scale local productions,” the Minister said.

The Philanthropy Incentive Program will encourage individuals and businesses to donate to the arts.

“The Government will contribute up to 7.5 per cent of initial start-up funds to help establish philanthropic funds of $500,000 or more, to ensure the sustainability of our arts sector,” Ms McHale said.

Speaking at a budget briefing to the arts community, the Minister also announced that the International Showcase event in 2009 will feature Korean artist Choi Jeong-Hwa as the preferred artist.

“This renowned artist is currently working in California and has featured at the Pompidou Centre in Paris, Venice and Gwangju Biennales,” she said.

Details of other initiatives include:   

·          $10million to support WA’s major performing arts companies;

·          $7.9million for indexation to provide more financial sustainability for the arts sector;

·          $5.6million for regional WA with a 30 per cent increase for regional grants and touring programs, 50 per cent increase for regional writers festivals and $3.6million for the Regional Partnership Program, which will deliver first-class arts experiences regionally;

·          $5.5million for the Arts Capital Fund for improvements to facilities and equipment at arts venues throughout WA; and

·          $650,000 for the Designer Fashion industry to support new showcases and activities as part of Perth Fashion Festival.

“The Government’s commitment to culture and the arts recognise both the depth of artistic talent in WA and the importance of cultural experiences in enhancing the unique lifestyle of Western Australians,” Ms McHale said.