Police Point Artist in Residency
Set for success at the Gatekeepers Cottage
Emerging and established artists, writers, musicians and creatives are invited to apply for an Artist Residency in the Gatekeepers Cottage at Police Point Shire Park, Portsea, from January 2020 to December 2022. Expressions of interest are now open for supported and fee-paying residencies ranging from 2–6 weeks.
In 2019 the Mornington Peninsula Shire awarded 34 residencies at the historic Gatekeepers Cottage. More than half of the residencies were granted to peninsula-based artists to develop and foster their artistic practice.
Artists in residence are encouraged to enhance the community’s creative capacity and contribute to the cultural landscape of the Mornington Peninsula via workshops, talks and open studios. Through the residency program local communities have enjoyed open studio visits, creative workshops, guided walks and artist’s talks.
Red Hill artist Liz Walker reflects on her recent residence: “The Police Point residency provided numerous opportunities for exploration and observation along its walking trails and around the accessible coastal sites which enabled me to create a series of working drawings from collected (and returned) natural fragments.
Whilst there I was completely immersed in contemplation and creative activity in an inspiring and very comfortable environment – the whole experience was invaluable.”
Liz Walker returning collated natural fragments to the beaches of Point Nepean and drawings completed whilst in residence.
Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor Councillor David Gill said: “The Mornington Peninsula Shire Council is committed to continuing the successful Artist in Residence programme at Police Point at Point Nepean National Park. We consider the superb location and inspiring environment ideal for artists to work in. Council is delighted with the feedback and enthusiasm of past participants.”
All visiting artists are asked to contribute to the Police Point Artist in Residence visitors’ book during their stay. “The pages in the Artist’s Book have filled up over the years and it is an excellent reflection of the variety of artists the Shire has generously hosted. I would encourage all Mornington Peninsula residents to visit the cottage and view this book, it’s a valued artwork that keeps on giving!” says MPRG Director Jane Alexander.
Applying for a residency
Visit https://www.mornpen.vic.gov.au/PolicePointArtistInResidence.
Applications close: Friday 13 September 2019
Note: Preference will be given to those artists who have not undertaken a residency at Police Point Shire Park on a prior occasion.
