Over $30,000 allocated to projects in Creative Communities Scheme funding

From a youth education trust running a talent quest to art and craft exhibitions, music workshops, theatre workshops and fashion awards the recipients received anything from $700 to $3,500 apiece, coming to $30,338.57 in total.

More than $30,000 has been allocated to 18 projects in the latest Creative Communities Scheme funding round.

From a youth education trust running a talent quest to art and craft exhibitions, music workshops, theatre workshops and fashion awards the recipients received anything from $700 to $3,500 apiece, coming to $30,338.57 in total.

The funding comes from Creative NZ but is managed by Hastings District Council with applications assessed by a locally appointed funding assessment committee.

The purpose of the funding is to increase range, diversity and participation in the arts in the community.

The Creative Communities Scheme (CCS) supports a wide range of art projects from craft/object arts to dance, inter-arts, literature, Māori Arts, multi-artform (including film), music, Pacific Arts, theatre and visual arts.

Applicants need to align with one of the funding criteria to be considered for funding: broad community involvement, supporting diversity and encouraging young people to actively participate in the arts.

Creative Communities local funding assessment committee chair Daniel Betty said a wide variety of applications were received each year from a diverse range of local groups, clubs, events and or specific projects.

Applicants can apply at two different times in the year and the project must be fulfilled within the next 12 months, he said.

“This fund is an important part of the arts and culture fabric of Hastings.

“It supports a large number of arts-based activities annually and aims to bring the communities together to celebrate access and participation in the arts, involving youth and diversity to support cultural artistic expression.

“As a committee, we look forward to receiving applications and reading about the amazing events throughout Hastings.”

He said the committee aimed to support as many applications as possible each year.

“It is fantastic to see that this grassroots funding is having such a wide impact on the development of the arts in Hastings.”

Councillor Kevin Watkins, who is also on the committee, said the recipients had exciting plans that would bolster the profile of the arts and performing arts in the district.

“This fund has supported many exciting initiatives over the years that add to the creative vibrancy of the district, and we’re delighted to again be able to support such a diverse range of groups and individuals.”

Applications for the next funding round open on August 1. For more information search Grants at www.hastingsdc.govt.nz.