Country Arts SA

“Artists are working often in isolation… sometimes what we can do is just go in and say ‘however you’re doing your practice, if it’s meaningful and valuable to you, that’s enough’. - Samantha Faehrmann, Guildhouse

Our Visual Arts Manager, Lauren Mustillo, alongside colleagues from Guildhouse have been visiting regional South Australia to connect with visual artists.

Read more about Intersection here:

The regional intersection of art and isolation SA’s peak body for visual art, craft and design is heading to the country, seeking out regional artists in an effort to build communities.

Join our team as Finance Officer ✨

This role will be responsible for providing essential support to the Finance Manager, managing day to day financial operation activities. The role involves handling supplier and customer queries, liaising with creditors and debtors and performing various administrative tasks, including insurance activities, to ensure smooth financial processes.

Applications close 10am, Monday 23 September 2024.

Find out more: https://www.countryarts.org.au/about/work-with-us/finance-officer/

Nominations are now open for the 2024 Governor’s Multicultural Awards.

These important awards recognise and celebrate outstanding South Australians who promote multiculturalism and increase understanding of the benefits of cultural diversity in our community.

The award categories include outstanding individual achievement, arts and culture, community sector, media, private sector, public sector, volunteer, senior volunteer and youth.

Find out more: https://www.dpc.sa.gov.au/responsibilities/multicultural-affairs/events/the-governors-multicultural-awards

This October hear original music by Leon Rodgers with featured songs by multi-award-winning duo Electric Fields (Zaachariaha Fielding and Michael Ross) in Bangarra Dance Theatre’s, Yuldea.

Experience this “sublime, magnificent and engaging production” (Broadway World) in Whyalla, Port Pirie, Renmark and Mount Gambier.

Middleback Arts Centre | October 1
Northern Festival Centre | October 4
Chaffey Theatre | October 9
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre | October 12

🎟 https://www.countryarts.org.au/events/yuldea/
📸 Kate Longley

Are you looking to deliver a creative project or event which promotes appreciation and understanding of the experiences of service?

The Department of Veterans Affairs is offering community funding of up to $10K for projects and activities that are focused on the local community and/or commemorate the service and sacrifice of local community members.

Find out more and apply here: https://www.dva.gov.au/about/overview/consultations-and-grants/grants-and-bursaries/saluting-their-service-commemorative-grants-program

This week we said farewell to our ray-of-sunshine in finance, Naomi Barrett ☀️

From her beginnings as receptionist at the Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre 18 years ago to moving into the finance team and become the Country Arts SA Excel Queen, Naomi had become a consistent, dependable and optimistic part of the team, always been willing to offer a hand or an ear to those around her.

Behind-the-scenes she has been instrumental in what we do, making sure artists, arts workers and organisations get paid and helping report on all the impact we make!

Thank you for the invaluable years you’ve given out of your genuine interest and passion for the arts.

Good luck on your next big adventure!

💡 Helpmann Academy is now accepting applications for the Elise Ross Regional Award 2025. 💡

This award assists emerging visual and performing artists based in regional South Australia, to overcome barriers presented by distance and population size, with creative and professional development opportunities. Applications close 8 October.

Find out all the details and access helpful application resources and tips here: https://helpmannacademy.com.au/elise-ross-regional-award-2025/

Image 1: Something Missing by Crista Bradshaw. Crista is a proud Wangkumaran emerging contemporary artist. Credit: Crista Bradshaw.

Image 2: Brendan Godfrey (2024 Recipient) and crew.

Attention all artists and creatives in the Riverland! Are you looking to connect with artists in the region + meet Adelaide-based curators and program managers from the visual arts sector?

Join us at the Chaffey Theatre tomorrow night (Friday 6 Sept) from 6-8pm for a community event as part of the Intersection Regional Tour! You will meet Lauren Mustillo (Visual Arts Manager, Country Arts SA), Samantha Faehrmann (Artistic Program Manager, Guildhouse), plus hear from Riveland-based artists Lyn Anstey and Kerry Servin.

Lyn will share her experience of working as a regional artist living in Loxton, and how she has landed opportunities and navigated isolation, while Kerry will give an artist talk and walk through of her solo exhibition 'The Long Goodbye - a love letter to you…' currently on display at the Chaffey Theatre.

This relaxed community event is a way for artists based in the region to come together, connect and network, and celebrate the creativity of the region.

The event is free! Please RSVP here: https://events.humanitix.com/intersection-community-event-riverland-at-chaffey-theatre

Image: Community event at Signal Point Gallery, Fleurieu Peninsula, May 2023.

Fun fact: Bangarra Dance Theatre use paint onstage in Yuldea!

Costumer designer Jennifer Irwin had to create each piece in mind to endure the paint, choreography and sweat, with each costume transforming through its lifetime. The designs not only consider durability but also enhance the movement onstage.

See the incredible costumes this October in one of our four Art Centres:

Middleback Arts Centre | October 1
Northern Festival Centre | October 4
Chaffey Theatre | October 9
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre | October 12

Find out more: https://www.countryarts.org.au/events/yuldea/
📸 Kate Longley

One week left to apply for the Guildhouse Catapult mentorship program!

This opportunity provides creative professionals with essential funding and support to develop and extend their artistic practice through a meaningful mentorship.

Two mentorships are earmarked for regional artists supported by Country Arts SA and Country Arts Foundation.

Applications close Monday 9 September, 9am. Find out more: https://guildhouse.org.au/call-out-catapult-2024/

Catapult is generously funded through the Guildhouse Creative Champions donor program, Country Arts SA, Country Arts Foundation and the City of Port Adelaide Enfield.

Image: Fiona Castle Schmidt and Julia Robinson, photo by Lana Adams

The start of Spring is a great time to consider taking up that professional development or project opportunity you've been thinking about, and a Quick Response grant could be the way to make it happen!

The September round is now open and accepting applications for opportunities which have come up at short notice. Find out more and apply here: https://www.countryarts.org.au/available-grants/quick-response-grant-september/

Port Lincoln artist Ellie Cheesman received a quick response grant to support licensing of the soundtrack to her short film "Angelic Unfurling" which was selected for screening at the Trilogy Film Festival in October 2023. Ellie was also invited to take part in a panel with two other film makers, discussing the intention of the film.

Image: Jean Bennett dancing in Angelic Unfurling. Credit: Ellie Cheesman.

Marcia Hines has been touring around regional South Australia and audiences have been raving about her shows in Pt Pirie, Whyalla and Pt Augusta!

Marcia has two more regional performances in Renmark and Mount Gambier.

Chaffey Theatre | Saturday 14 September at 7.30pm
Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre | Saturday 5 October at 7.30pm

Find out more: https://www.countryarts.org.au/events/marcia-hines-still-shining-the-50th-anniversary-concert-tour/

"We hope this may inspire connection and conversation moving forward, for broader participation in other First Nations celebrations and collaborations."

This is the response from local business to the mural created by Riverland artist Jarrod Loxton and Ngarindjerri artist and storyteller Shane Karpany, which received Project Grant funding in 2023.

Telling the story of Waatji Pulyeri (The Blue Wren) this was the first large scale collaborative artwork of its kind in the Loxton area.

Image Credit: Michelle Gray

💡 Are you looking for a way to attract donations for your next project or event? 💡

The Australian Cultural Fund could be the answer you've been looking for! Through the ACF, artists upload their project, start their fundraising campaign and invite arts & culture lovers and supporters to donate with 100% of donations going directly towards artists’ creative projects.

Find out more on how you can start your own campaign here: https://australianculturalfund.org.au/

Grindell's Hut Residency Announcement ✨

Congratulations to Tasmania Artist Julie Stoneman who has been selected as the 2024 resident!

Based in Hobart (Nipaluna), Stoneman will head to the Vulkathunha - Gammon Ranges National Park in the Northern Flinders Ranges in October to analyse the ancient landscape ­­- examining rocks at their most micro-level - to bring their hidden worlds to life in pen and ink, completely secluded from the distractions of day-to-day suburban life.

We're excited to see what might develop out of Julie's time at Grindell's Hut.

Read more about it here ⬇

Grindell’s Hut 2024 Resident Announced Tasmanian artist Julie Stoneman is the Grindell’s Hut resident for 2024. Based in Hobart (Nipaluma), Stoneman will head to the Vulkathunha – Gammon Ranges National Park in the Northern Flinders Ranges…

🌴C.R.U.S.H. 2024 - REGIONAL SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE🌴

Community. Regional. Up. Skill. Haven

Crossroad Arts presents a fantastic opportunity for regional Australian artists with disability to apply for scholarships of up to $2,000 to assist with travel and accommodation to attend their annual C.R.U.S.H theatre making intensive. This is for ages 15yrs + and for beginners to accomplished performers. All levels invited to apply.

WHEN: Friday, 18 October to Sunday 20, October 2024
TIME: 10-4pm
WHERE: Senior Citizens Hall, 58 MacAlister Street, Mackay, QLD
COST: $90 for weekend (heavily subsidised). Companion cards accepted. Should cost be a barrier to participation, please contact us.
ACCESS: Venue is wheelchair accessible. Should you have any access requirements please let us know when registering.

To register or for more information:
contact: [email protected] or 07 4953 5122 or via the National Relay Service.

All information including past videos of C.R.U.S.H please visit:
https://www.crossroadarts.com.au/past-projects

'South Australia is rich with First Nations artists who give every day to working and telling stories about culture, land, family, community, and the histories of this country we all call home. However, many regional First Nations artists don’t know what’s going on or the opportunities that await them...' Wangkangurru artist and Regional Curator Marika Davies writes about her recent experience working alongside First Nations artists in South Australia developing 'Saltbush Country', and what resourcing for Aboriginal artists means in rural communities and small towns.
Read it in our latest issue 'Regional'. Image: Saltbush Country, installation view, Pirie Regional Art Gallery 2023 featuring shell necklaces by Lynette Newchurch, and Our Mothers possum skin cloak by Deanna Newchurch and Lynette Newchurch.

Photo: Sam Roberts

We can't wait for our visit to the Riverland on the next stop of the Intersection tour with Guildhouse.

We invite artists and creatives within the region to join us at our Community Event at the Chaffey Theatre on Friday 6 September at 6pm, to come together, connect and network.

Come chat with Lauren Mustillo (Visual Arts Manager, Country Arts SA) and Samantha Faehrmann (Artistic Program Manager, Guildhouse), and hear from local artists Lyn Anstey and Kerry Servin who will share their experiences of working as a regional artist in the Riverland region.

Free! RSVP here: https://events.humanitix.com/intersection-community-event-riverland-at-chaffey-theatre

Image: Fossick Goolwa, Intersection Regional Tour 2024, photograph Lana Adams.

The latest round of Quick Response grants is closing on 31 August!

Writer Nicola Watson received a Quick Response Grant to attend the 2024 Patrick White Playwright Award announcement, for which her play was one of five shortlisted.

Find out if you and your opportunity are eligible for funding and apply here: https://www.countryarts.org.au/available-grants/quick-response-grant-august/

Image: 2024 Patrick Wright Playwright Awards, Sydney Theatre Company. Credit: Nicola Watson

"This mentorship has been essential for me and my growth as an artist. I've learnt vital skills and it has opened up financial opportunities" - Kristal Matthews, Catapult regional recipient

Applications are now open for the highly anticipated Guildhouse Catapult mentorship program!

Two mentorships are earmarked for regional artists supported by Country Arts SA and Country Arts Foundation.

Applications close Monday 9 September, 9am. Find out more: https://guildhouse.org.au/call-out-catapult-2024/

Catapult is generously funded through the Guildhouse Creative Champions donor program, Country Arts SA, Country Arts Foundation and the City of Port Adelaide Enfield.

💡 Carclew's Project & Development grants for young artists are now open! 💡

Individual grants of up to $10K are available to support the development and/or presentation of new or existing work and/or projects which enable participation in the arts for children and young people.

Organisations can apply for up to $20K for projects in any art form developed and presented for, by and with children and young people aged 26 years and under.

🚨 Closing date is 8th September. 🚨

Check out all the details here: https://carclew.com.au/program/project-grants/

Image: Dancers Lily Potger and Mason Kelly during the development of ‘Womb’ by Samuel Hall (2022 Project and Development Grant Recipient) Image courtesy of Carclew.

Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the Vulkathunha-Gammon Ranges through Ben Sibley's solo exhibition 'The Limits' at Yarta Purtli Gallery in Port Augusta.

These works were developed over a two-year period following Sibley's participation in the Country Arts SA Grindell's Hut Residency in 2022. Utilising the mediums of drawing, photogravure, and printmaking, this body of work reflects a personal and ecological response to the landscape.

On display now until September 13.

Image: Install view, The Limits.

💡 The Ian Potter Cultural Trust Emerging Artist grants are open. 💡

These grants of up to $15,000 assist talented emerging and early-career artists to take up professional development opportunities, usually overseas.

Artist practicing across the spectrum of the arts, from visual arts to community radio, design to literature, conservation of cultural heritage to circus arts are eligible to apply.

🚨 Applications close 10 September. 🚨

Find out more 👇herehttps://www.ianpotterculturaltrust.org.au/opportunities/emerging-artist-grants/

IMAGE: WENDELL LEVI TEODORO. DANCE GRANTEE REMY ROCHESTER.

"I feel reinvigorated and know that my career has gained momentum. I now believe that I will be a better artist and by applying all we have discussed and will discuss I will get to the level I want and need. It is wonderful to be able to contact my mentor anytime with questions and achievements." - Lyn Anstey

Applications are now open for the highly anticipated Guildhouse Catapult mentorship program!

Two mentorships are earmarked for regional artists supported by Country Arts SA and Country Arts Foundation.

Find out more: https://guildhouse.org.au/call-out-catapult-2024/

Catapult is generously funded through the Guildhouse Creative Champions donor program, Country Arts SA, Country Arts Foundation and the City of Port Adelaide Enfield.

💡Newmarch Gallery in Prospect is seeking expressions of interest to exhibit in 2025.💡

Newmarch Gallery is a high quality, nationally recognized exhibition space. As a gallery run by City of Prospect, it is a unique facility. The diversity of its exhibition program reflects its role as a contemporary public exhibition space with a longstanding community focus.

Exhibitions include solo and group shows across a range of media, supporting both emerging and established artists.

🚨 Applications close on 29 August. 🚨
Find out more and apply here: https://www.newmarchgallery.com.au/blog

Image: Nat Penney A Winter Beach is a Good Place for Seeing Clearly. Newmarch Gallery, 2024. Image: Newmarch Gallery.

After 13 incredible years Tammy Hall finished up with us last week and what a legacy she leaves. Working with volunteer presenters across the state she has helped deliver hundreds of performances from Cummins to Coober Pedy transforming the Shows on the Road program into a vibrant community curated program bringing artists from across the country to some very special places like shearing sheds to town halls with support from our presenter groups.

Tammy has many talents and always crafted beautiful gifts for the artists and communities she worked with after each tour. Always approaching her work with integrity and tenacity she has created magical arts experiences in every corner of the state.

We will miss you hugely Tammy but are excited for your next chapter where you will continue to thrive!

The August round of Quick Response grants is now open! If you have a small project or professional development opportunity that has arisen at short notice, then a Quick Response grant could provide you with the funds to get started. Check out all the details and apply here: https://www.countryarts.org.au/for-artists/grants/

Mount Gambier fibre artist Ilze Cant used her quick response grant to undertake a residency at Tarndie homestead in Victoria. At the conclusion of the residency, Ilze's partner Simon composed a piece of music in response to the felted wool work made at Tarndie. Image courtesy of the artist.

There's one week left to apply to be on the Country Arts SA Grants Assessment Panel.

We are looking for individuals aged 18 and above who live in regional South Australia with an in-depth understanding of one or more of the following areas to support diversity and independence in making funding recommendations.

-Knowledge of the regional arts sector and current art-form practice, through being a practicing artist, creative worker or advisor to the regional arts sector
- First Nations Arts & Culture
- Community networks including LGBTQIA+, culturally and linguistically diverse and disability communities
- Education, Health, Tourism and related areas

Find out more and apply here: https://www.countryarts.org.au/available-grants/gap-recruitment/

Artists performing at the 2024 Fringe in the Flinders, which was supported with funding from the Regional Arts Fund Project grants round. Image credit: Flinders Ranges Council.