A low budget film making challenge, a Samoan arts workshop, a glow in the dark puppet show, and queer and trans drawing classes are just a sample of the diverse recipients of this year’s Creative Communities Scheme (CCS).
The biannual funding scheme, a partnership between Wellington City Council and Creative New Zealand, supports projects that reflect the diversity of the capital’s culture and traditions, gets young people participating, have broad appeal and community involvement, and encourages engagement in the arts.
The CCS panel allocated $73,138 in this round, which was awarded to 23 recipients that met the grant criteria (see list below).
The CCS panel is made up of 12 members (including one high school student) with expertise on everything from dance to kapa-haka, zines to youth theatre, visual arts and other art forms – and chaired by Arts Portfolio Lead, Mayor Justin Lester.
The range and diversity of the recipients demonstrates how Wellington is a hot house for talent and creativity, says Mayor Lester.
“Our partnership with Creative New Zealand, and their commitment to support grassroots activity and emerging artists, compliments our investment in arts and culture as one of our top priorities – both recognising the creative sector as the beating heart of the capital.
“This is evident in some of the accolades the city has received including coolest little capital, world’s most liveable city, and retaining our crown in the Infometrics Creativity Index.
“The talent and creativity we support and invest in now will go towards maintaining the appeal and attractiveness of the capital to innovators, investors, visitors, businesses, students, and residents alike.”
Team Leader Funding Mark Farrar says there are numerous ways the creative community can receive funding for their projects.
“The next CCS funding will close at the end of August, in the meantime there are a lot of Council funding opportunities available for all sorts of projects, organisations, and initiatives that add to the cultural fabric of Wellington.
“We encourage anyone who may not have applied before to visit our wcc.govt.nz/funding section and see what’s available and whether they fit the criteria for a grant.”
-WCC