CASP opens for 2016

Western Riverina Arts encourage local community organisations to come and discuss applying for funding through the Country Arts Support Program (CASP), which closes Thursday 1st October 2015 for delivery in 2016.

“CASP grants are designed to primarily cover professional artist's fees and expenses such as travel and accommodation.,” said Derek Motion, Regional Arts Development Officer. “Grants of up to $3000 are available and the guidelines are now less prescriptive for its use.”

In 2015 there was a variety of projects throughout the Western Riverina that were made possible with funding through CASP.

In Griffith the Police Citizens Youth Club ran the Spray Sessions program, which taught young people graffiti-style art skills. The 16-week project included a professional artist delivering four workshops and the creation of a mural at the local skate park and an exhibition at the regional gallery.

In Narrandera The Cad Factory received funding towards the forthcoming On Common Ground event. This site-specific exploration of innovative contemporary textile practices and traditional textile crafts will focus on their interaction with the land and environment.

In Leeton the Riverina Community College ran a series of workshops with local artist Louise Cooper during National Youth Week 2015. Ms Cooper taught local young people simple crafts, marketing and event management skills to produce small craft goods.

In Wamoon the parents and citizens committee of the public school ran the Wamoon Centenary Artist in Residence Program: Putting Wamoon Back on the Map! This series of creative community development workshops and activities was run by Louise Cooper for Wamoon primary school students and the community as part of the Wamoon Centenary celebrations in 2015.

"Any community-based incorporated group can apply and I hope they will,” said Mr Motion. “Individual artists can also apply, they simply need to have their application auspiced by an incorporated group. Talk with me for assistance."

CASP provides small grants to arts and community organisations in regional NSW for short term, locally initiated projects. Download an application form here.

The Program aims to support locally determined cultural activities and make them accessible, so communities can explore and express their cultural identities. Benefits include social and economic outcomes for the community through training, employment and promotional activities, while leading to greater awareness and appreciation of cultural diversity in rural and regional New South Wales.

For more information contact Derek Motion, Regional Arts Development Officer, Western Riverina Arts.

Spray Sessions photo courtesy of The Area News.