A new funding initiative designed to support Queensland-based Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and artists to distribute high quality, ethically produced visual art works is now open.
Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said the First Nations Art, Craft and Design: Transforming Marketplaces fund will provide product development support and specialist guidance for artists, artisans, designers and organisations with funding up to $120,000 for large scale projects and up to $60,000 for small scale projects.
“Indigenous art organisations have had to re-imagine how to access and engage existing audiences and to grow new markets in the wake of COVID-19, and this fund will support new innovative initiatives that bring products to market.
“An important aim of this fund is to help to boost access to, and enhance the supply of, quality First Nations art to meet current and future buyer demand,” the Minister said.
“This initiative will work to assist in addressing the proliferation of ‘fake art’ which continues to impact the incomes of First Nations artists and communities.
“Successful applicants will work with experts in retail and product development to increase the distribution of First Nations arts and crafts over an 18-month period, along with growing the critical supply chains that will enable First Nations peoples to leverage the significant opportunities presented by the Brisbane 2032 Olympics and Paralympics.”
Avril Quaill, Chair of the Queensland Art Gallery’s Indigenous Advisory Panel said, “This fund is a game changer!
“It will take Queensland First Nations artists, designers, art makers, start-ups and more to the next level. There is a growing demand for high quality Queensland art and product and this fund will expand sales platforms ensuring authenticity in the market,” Ms Quaill said.
Minister Enoch said the First Nations Art, Craft and Design: Transforming Marketplaces fund was the latest to roll out from the $22.5 million Arts and Cultural Recovery Package (ACRP).
“This fund supports the Creative Together 2020-2030 Roadmap for arts, culture and creativity in Queensland and its priorities to Elevate First Nations arts,” the Minister said.
“The arts, cultural and creative sectors are key to delivering our Government’s plan for economic recovery from COVID-19, each year contributing $8.5 billion into the state’s economy and supporting more than 92,000 jobs for Queenslanders.”
