Arts sector in Tasmania set to RISE

In a major boost to Tasmania’s arts sector, the Morrison Government has today announced that three projects will share in over $2 million funding from the first batch of the Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) Fund.

Grants up to $1 million will begin to flow to support arts and entertainment sector organisations in Tasmania, who are seeking to restart, re-imagine or create new cultural and creative activities.

Speaking in Hobart, Minister for Communications, Cyber Safety and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, said the grants were an important step in supporting the future of Tasmania’s creative and cultural sector.

“Tasmania’s cultural and creative organisations are part of the state’s identity, which is why we’re excited to commit over $2 million across these three projects, to support their rejuvenation and long-term sustainability,” Minister Fletcher said.

“As well as assisting these organisations in providing unique Australian stories and perspectives to audiences, these grants will support the creation of over 1,200 jobs in Tasmania, with benefits to flow to the tourism, hospitality, transport and freight sectors.”

A highlight of the RISE program in Tasmania is Dark Mofo, receiving $1 million in funding.

“Like so many festivals, Dark Mofo was cancelled this year due to COVID-19 restrictions. Our commitment will support its much anticipated return in 2021, providing local artists with the opportunity to showcase their talent and shine on stage,” Minister Fletcher said.

“I am excited to provide funding to DarkLab for this internationally renowned festival which will attract large audiences to the state, and deliver support for the Tasmanian arts sector during winter.”

The $75 million RISE program was announced as part of the Government’s $250 million Creative Economy Support Package to help restart activities such as festivals, concerts, tours and events once it is safe to do so. It is anticipated the Fund will create 44,000 jobs across Australia.

The RISE program remains open for applications until mid-2021.

The successful Tasmanian projects are listed below. The full list of batch one recipients will be announced in the coming weeks at: www.arts.gov.au/covid-19-update

Organisation

Project Name

Funding

Description

DarkLab

Dark Mofo

$1,000,000

Support for ‘Dark Mofo’, an internationally renowned art festival to continue to play a critical role for the Tasmania generating over $50 million in economic activity and supporting over 400 jobs the arts and tourism sectors during winter.

Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)

MONA FOMA and Recording Studio

$756,400

An adaptation of the format of the summer festival of music and art as well as the establishment of a permanent recording studio to activate the Tasmanian arts, entertainment and tourism sectors.

Terrapin Puppet Theatre

Public Space Performance Program

$253,181

The presentation of eight new works including giant puppets and installations in public spaces across Tasmania during 2021/2022.

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