(2/9/2019) Arts and community grants open

Local art projects and community groups can apply for a funding boost in the City of Fremantle’s latest round of arts and community grants.

Twice a year, in March and September, the City offers arts grants of up to $25,000 and community grants up to $10,000 for projects or activities that contribute to Fremantle’s wellbeing, vibrancy and cultural diversity. The grants are financed from the City’s annual arts pool of $50,000 and community pool of $60,000.

City of Fremantle Community Development Manager Beverley Bone said the grants program empowered groups and individuals to develop their ideas, projects and events.

“Over the years, we’ve seen the grants program provide much–needed financial assistance for projects that support Freo’s vibrant arts and cultural sector, activate the city’s surrounds, facilitate learning opportunities and skills development for residents and strengthen community connection,” Ms Bone said.

“I would encourage any groups or individuals interested in applying to firstly visit the City’s website to learn more about the program guidelines and contact our grants officers to discuss their project.”

One of last year’s arts grant recipients, Kerry Bowden, received funding for her upcoming play Whisper White, which is showing from 19–22 September 2019 at the Fremantle Fibonacci Centre.

Ms Bowden said the grant greatly assisted her with the many financial costs of mounting a theatre production. 

“The hire of a venue, lighting rig costs, professional actor payments and marketing expenses all weigh heavy when producing a new piece of theatre,” she said.

“By assisting with the costs, it has allowed me as writer/director and the cast of six actors to focus more on the creative elements of the play.

“I would unreservedly recommend applying for a City of Fremantle arts and community grant as a way to progress creative and artistic endeavours, community engagement and the many networking opportunities the grant avails.”

Arts and community grants funding is only available for projects delivered in the City of Fremantle. Grant applications close on 27 September, and successful applicants will be notified by end of November.

For more information about the grants program including eligibility requirements, visit the Arts and Community Grants page on the City of Fremantle website or contact the grants officers.

To learn more about the Whisper White play and purchase tickets, click here.

Image: Former arts and community grant recipients Spare Parts Puppet Theatre and WA Museum presented Tom Vickers and the Extraordinary Adventure of his Missing Sock last year. Credit Jess Wyld.