Welcome boost for art projects

An Ocean Grove short film and Point Lonsdale podcast series have received funding thanks to Regional Arts Victoria.

Four state art projects shared the $98,518 regional artists and communities funding that was delivered by Regional Arts Victoria through the Australian Government’s Regional Arts Fund.

Ocean Grove’s Isabella Giovinazzo received $27,412 for her short film ‘FINN’ exploring a diverse range of people living with autism.

Point Lonsdale’s Mark Lang received $24,562 for his filmed podcast series ‘Out to Sea’, exploring the elements and business of how to make a sustainable art career.

Regional Arts Victoria Strategic Initiatives director Susie Lyons said the Regional Arts Fund received its largest round of applications for this round of funding.

“At Regional Arts Victoria, we are proud to deliver this vital Australian Government funding program to communities in Victoria,” she said.

“Now more than ever, we are seeing more artists and communities engaging in this important and highly competitive program.

“We want to thank the members of the independent assessment panel for their time and commitment in supporting exceptional and diverse arts practice in regional Victoria.”

Minister for the Arts Tony Burke said the story of Australia’s art scene couldn’t be told without the voices of remote and regional artists.

“A key pillar of Revive, Australia’s new National Cultural Policy is to ensure there’s a place for every story, and a story for every place, and this funding helps ensure that,” he said.

“That’s why the Albanese Government is increasing its support for the Regional Arts Fund by an additional $8.5 million over the next four years, promoting a thriving arts scene across the country.”

Ballarat International Foto Biennale and Swan Hill’s Fairfax Youth Initiative also received more than $20,000 in project funding.