Arts program renews and strengthens local community connection

• $1 million awarded to 13 projects across the State
• More than 90 WA projects funded since August 2020
• Applications closing soon - up to $30,000 for short term artist-in-residence projects 

Ten regional and three metro artist-in-residence projects will receive grants through the McGowan Government's $5 million Creative Communities COVID-19 Recovery Program.

The grants aim to strengthen local connection in response to impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic and support a range of initiatives including community arts, music, theatre and visual arts.

Since the program was introduced in August 2020, it has funded more than 90 Western Australian projects across shorter term 'Residency' and longer term 'Collaboration' categories.

The artist-in-residence projects are delivered in collaboration with the artists and a local government authority, school or community group.

The Collaboration category has now finished, with the Residency category remaining open for applications until March 31, 2022. If you have a short term artist-in-residence project, funding of up to $30,000 is available: read the Creative Communities Program Residency category guidelines here.

These projects build greater community connection and resilience though the arts. The 2021 Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (DLGSC) Culture and Arts Monitor survey found that 87 per cent of people said that the arts make them feel good and 78 per cent feel the arts is valuable for the community.

The Creative Communities Program is supported by Lotterywest and delivered by the DLGSC.

Program activities are featured online at the DLGSC Showcase Page.

Comments attributed to Culture and the Arts Minister David Templeman:

"The McGowan Government understands that arts and culture is vital to create a vibrant, inclusive and connected community.

"The Creative Communities COVID-19 Recovery Program was developed to strengthen community wellbeing and encourage people to reconnect after a period of disconnection.  

"Participating in the arts is a powerful engagement tool to help tackle complex social, environmental and economic issues that affect community connection and wellbeing."

Minister's office - 6552 5400

Full list of Creative Communities Program - Collaboration category recipients