array(16) { [0]=> object(WP_Post)#1593 (24) { ["ID"]=> int(21010) ["post_author"]=> string(2) "21" ["post_date"]=> string(19) "2018-07-18 16:49:40" ["post_date_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-07-18 06:49:40" ["post_content"]=> string(2847) "[caption id="attachment_21011" align="aligncenter" width="440"] Opera Australia's production of La Traviata 2017. Image: Keith Saunders[/caption]

Helpmann Awards NSW Winners

Congratulations to all the NSW artists and productions that showed Australia the depth of our states creative talent at the Helpmann Awards on Tuesday night. Create NSW supported organisations took home 16 awards, including an impressive seven awards for Bangarra Dance Theatre production of Bennelong, and five awards for Sydney Theatre Company and Global Creatures’, Muriel's Wedding The Musical.

Create NSW supported awards

Bangarra Dance Theatre

• Best Choreography in a Ballet, Dance or Physical Theatre Production - Stephen Page AO, Bennelong
• Best Male Dancer in a Ballet, Dance or Physical Theatre Production - Beau Dean Riley Smith, Bennelong
• Best Dance Production - Bennelong
• Best Lighting Design - Nick Schlieper, Bennelong
• Best New Australian Work - Stephen Page AO, Bennelong
• Best Scenic Design - Jacob Nash, Bennelong
• Best Regional Touring Production - OUR land people stories

Sydney Theatre Company and Global Creatures

• Best Costume Design - Gabriela Tylesova, Muriel's Wedding The Musical
• Best Choreography in a Musical - Andrew Hallsworth, Muriel's Wedding The Musical
• Best Sound Design - Michael Waters, Muriel's Wedding The Musical
• Best Music Direction - Isaac Hayward, Muriel's Wedding The Musical
• Best Original Score - Kate Miller-Heidke & Keir Nuttall - Muriel's Wedding The Musical

Opera Australia

• Best Female Performer in an Opera - Nicole Car, La Traviata
• Best Individual Classical Music Performance - Jonas Kaufmann, Parsifal

Sydney Symphony Orchestra

• Best Symphony Orchestra Concert - The Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Bluebeard’s Castle: With Bach and Brahms

Sydney Theatre Company and Melbourne Theatre Company

• Best Direction of a Play - Sarah Goodes, The Children

Full list of winners here: http://www.helpmannawards.com.au/2018/nominees-and-winners/" ["post_title"]=> string(45) "NSW tops winners list in 2018 Helpmann Awards" ["post_excerpt"]=> string(0) "" ["post_status"]=> string(7) "publish" ["comment_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["ping_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["post_password"]=> string(0) "" ["post_name"]=> string(40) "nsw-tops-winners-in-2018-helpmann-awards" ["to_ping"]=> string(0) "" ["pinged"]=> string(0) "" ["post_modified"]=> string(19) "2018-07-19 09:38:31" ["post_modified_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-07-18 23:38:31" ["post_content_filtered"]=> string(0) "" ["post_parent"]=> int(0) ["guid"]=> string(76) "http://www.create.nsw.gov.au?p=21010&preview=true&preview_id=21010" ["menu_order"]=> int(11) ["post_type"]=> string(4) "post" ["post_mime_type"]=> string(0) "" ["comment_count"]=> string(1) "0" ["filter"]=> string(3) "raw" } [1]=> object(WP_Post)#1594 (24) { ["ID"]=> int(20873) ["post_author"]=> string(2) "21" ["post_date"]=> string(19) "2018-07-10 08:31:02" ["post_date_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-07-09 22:31:02" ["post_content"]=> string(3617) "

Create NSW is working with the music sector to develop the goals, strategies, actions, and priority areas that will guide the NSW Government’s future initiatives and investment in contemporary music across the State.

Why is contemporary music important?

NSW has a wonderfully talented group of musicians, bands and artists across diverse genres and styles of contemporary music.  This talent is expressed through rock, pop, dance, blues, hip hop, R&B, metal, electronica, folk, soul, classical, jazz and improvised music, and art form cross-overs such as sound art, cabaret and music theatre.These artists are supported by a passionate group of industry professionals, sector representatives and a music ecosystem committed to sharing the benefits of music participation with communities in NSW, Australia and around the world.Music can have a profound effect on the social and cultural development of communities. It expresses cultural values and enables meanings to be shared, brings people together, and promotes the development and maintenance of individual, group, cultural and national identities.As well as its social and cultural value, contemporary music is a multibillion dollar industry. It employs tens of thousands of people, reaches an audience of millions, and makes a major contribution to Australia’s copyright industries.  A significant share of Australia’s music economy is contributed by the contemporary music industry in NSW.

What is Create NSW doing?

While there is ample evidence of the contribution it makes to social, cultural and economic development, there are opportunities for the expansion and growth of contemporary music in NSW.As part of the Night-Time Economy (NTE) Taskforce’s work to implement the Government Response to the NTE Roundtable Actions, Create NSW is developing a NSW Contemporary Music Strategy.Recent submissions and evidence to the Parliamentary Inquiry into the Music and Arts Economy in New South Wales, and other research and input by the music sector, is assisting to establish an understanding of the challenges and opportunities for contemporary music in NSW, and ideas for its growth.To build on this work, Create NSW is commencing a range of engagement activities aimed at involving music communities and supporting networks in metropolitan Sydney, Western Sydney and regional NSW. This includes the establishment of an Advisory Group, a series of workshops in locations around NSW, focus group meetings with communities of interest, and a public survey.Emerging from the engagement will be the goals, strategies, actions and priorities that will provide a framework and focus for the expansion and growth of contemporary music in NSW.If you have any enquiries, would like to participate in the workshops or receive any further information about this project, please contact:Paul Graham Project Lead (Strategic Projects) E: paul.graham@create.nsw.gov.au" ["post_title"]=> string(31) "NSW Contemporary Music Strategy" ["post_excerpt"]=> string(0) "" ["post_status"]=> string(7) "publish" ["comment_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["ping_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["post_password"]=> string(0) "" ["post_name"]=> string(31) "nsw-contemporary-music-strategy" ["to_ping"]=> string(0) "" ["pinged"]=> string(0) "" ["post_modified"]=> string(19) "2018-07-10 13:55:45" ["post_modified_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-07-10 03:55:45" ["post_content_filtered"]=> string(0) "" ["post_parent"]=> int(0) ["guid"]=> string(37) "http://www.create.nsw.gov.au/?p=20873" ["menu_order"]=> int(4) ["post_type"]=> string(4) "post" ["post_mime_type"]=> string(0) "" ["comment_count"]=> string(1) "0" ["filter"]=> string(3) "raw" } [2]=> object(WP_Post)#1595 (24) { ["ID"]=> int(20842) ["post_author"]=> string(2) "21" ["post_date"]=> string(19) "2018-07-09 16:42:19" ["post_date_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-07-09 06:42:19" ["post_content"]=> string(2361) "[caption id="attachment_20909" align="aligncenter" width="440"] NAIDOC Awards NITV[/caption]

Because of Her, We Can! NAIDOC Week 2018 celebrates the invaluable contributions that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women have made - and continue to make - to our communities, our families, our rich history and to our nation. As part of NAIDOC Week, NITV and the ABC will be broadcasting a range of TV programs and films that celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women.

ABC highlights:

• Kiki and Kitty - Kiki and Kitty follows the adventures of a young, black woman in a big, white world, where her vagina is a big, black woman and her best friend.
• Cleverman - In the near future, creatures from ancient mythology have emerged and must coexist with humans.
• Mystery Road - Indigenous Detective Jay Swan is assigned to investigate the disappearance of two young men from an outback cattle station.
• Meet the Mavericks - A five-part series featuring iconic artists, performers, cultural leaders and all round troublemakers.
• Createability Shorts - Artists with disabilities reveal the places and perspectives driving them to create.

ABC's full NAIDOC Week Collection NITV highlights:

• Radiance | Thursday 12 July, 8.30pm
• The Song Keepers | Sunday 15 July, 8.30pm

NITV's full NAIDOC Week program " ["post_title"]=> string(48) "NAIDOC Week on NITV & the ABC is looking deadly!" ["post_excerpt"]=> string(0) "" ["post_status"]=> string(7) "publish" ["comment_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["ping_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["post_password"]=> string(0) "" ["post_name"]=> string(45) "naidoc-week-on-nitv-and-abc-is-looking-deadly" ["to_ping"]=> string(0) "" ["pinged"]=> string(0) "" ["post_modified"]=> string(19) "2018-07-10 13:54:01" ["post_modified_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-07-10 03:54:01" ["post_content_filtered"]=> string(0) "" ["post_parent"]=> int(0) ["guid"]=> string(76) "http://www.create.nsw.gov.au?p=20842&preview=true&preview_id=20842" ["menu_order"]=> int(10) ["post_type"]=> string(4) "post" ["post_mime_type"]=> string(0) "" ["comment_count"]=> string(1) "0" ["filter"]=> string(3) "raw" } [3]=> object(WP_Post)#1596 (24) { ["ID"]=> int(20835) ["post_author"]=> string(2) "21" ["post_date"]=> string(19) "2018-07-09 16:40:51" ["post_date_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-07-09 06:40:51" ["post_content"]=> string(4588) "[caption id="attachment_20848" align="aligncenter" width="440"] (L to R) Terri Mitchell (Julie's cousin) and Julie Nimmo.[/caption]

Julie Nimmo, Supervising Producer at NITV, is a Wiradjuri woman from Sydney, NSW. Julie has over 20 years’ experience in Broadcast TV as a journalist, documentary filmmaker, and factual content producer of live programs, cultural content and television commercials. Julie is also the first Aboriginal woman to win a coveted Walkley Award, and last year Julie hosted and executive produced the highest rating NITV program in 2017, Struggle Street: The Point Responds.

Ahead of the NITV NAIDOC Awards Live Friday 13th July, Create NSW spoke to Julie Nimmo about her thoughts on this year’s NAIDOC Week theme, Because of Her, We Can!Can you tell us about yourself and where you’re from? My name is Julie Nimmo, I identify through my grandmother who was Wiradjuri, born on Warengesda Mission, Narrandera NSW and who raised and educated her two daughters in Sydney. I have been lucky enough to make content since the mid 90s. Through my job, I’ve had the privilege of speaking to the most incredibly wise, creative, cultured people imaginable.This year’s NAIDOC Week theme is Because of Her, We Can! Can you tell us what it means to you? Because of Her, We Can! created for me an opportunity to reflect and feel gratitude for women who have lived, loved and fought for all of us to enjoy what we have, as well as appreciating those who have inspired us to agitate for rights, not yet realised. Personally, I’ve stopped to image other women’s challenges, triumphs, traumas and resilience. It’s been a time of learning and awakening for me.This year’s NAIDOC Week theme promotes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women as role models in our communities. Could you tell us about a woman who has influenced you in your life? My older cousin Terri is someone I absolutely looked up to as a kid because she is so supremely confident and happy. No matter what the drama has ever been in my family, my cousin can always find something to laugh about, and she has a really big laugh which makes everyone stop and look at her and that in itself breaks the tension. Even if it’s us saying ‘oh go away’ we still all laugh. Laughter is so precious, which my cousin gives away as much as she can, and I love her dearly for this.What advice would you give to a young Aboriginal person looking to kick off their screen career? Commit to your ideas and don’t let anyone pull you off your own course. Whatever your destiny is and whatever the stories are that burn away inside you, treasure that creativity, because the world needs to hear from you. So love yourself, talk your ideas out with people you trust and keep pushing on until the world catches up with you!Which NITV programs are you most looking forward to during NAIDOC Week and why? NITV has a stunning documentary coming up called The Song Keepers Broadcast Sunday 15th July at 8.30pm. The film explores how in remote Central Australia, a musical legacy of ancient Aboriginal languages, sacred poetry and baroque music is being preserved by several generations of women.This unique ensemble embarks on a historic tour of Germany to take back hymns that were given to their great grandparents by German missionaries. The group sings sacred music in Arrarnta and Pitjantjatjara languages, two living Aboriginal languages of the Northern Territory and South Australia. More here: https://bit.ly/2u4zJ9KWhat’s next for you? I am producing the NITV NAIDOC Awards Live on Friday 13th July. I am terrified of the enormity of a three-hour live program, but I’m always thrilled to have challenges in life as the great lessons are always learned on the ‘big jobs’.Find a NAIDOC Week event near you: https://www.naidoc.org.au/" ["post_title"]=> string(96) "NITV's Julie Nimmo shares the importance this year's NAIDOC Week theme 'Because of Her, We Can!'" ["post_excerpt"]=> string(0) "" ["post_status"]=> string(7) "publish" ["comment_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["ping_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["post_password"]=> string(0) "" ["post_name"]=> string(31) "interview-with-nitv-julie-nimmo" ["to_ping"]=> string(0) "" ["pinged"]=> string(0) "" ["post_modified"]=> string(19) "2018-07-11 09:35:27" ["post_modified_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-07-10 23:35:27" ["post_content_filtered"]=> string(0) "" ["post_parent"]=> int(0) ["guid"]=> string(76) "http://www.create.nsw.gov.au?p=20835&preview=true&preview_id=20835" ["menu_order"]=> int(12) ["post_type"]=> string(4) "post" ["post_mime_type"]=> string(0) "" ["comment_count"]=> string(1) "0" ["filter"]=> string(3) "raw" } [4]=> object(WP_Post)#1597 (24) { ["ID"]=> int(20822) ["post_author"]=> string(2) "21" ["post_date"]=> string(19) "2018-07-09 16:40:03" ["post_date_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-07-09 06:40:03" ["post_content"]=> string(4794) "[caption id="attachment_20824" align="aligncenter" width="440"] Jannawi Dance Clan. Photo credit: Joseph Mayers City of Sydney[/caption]

The City of Sydney's annual NAIDOC in the City event is a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and their continued importance. Create NSW spoke to Mayrah Sonter, a proud Wiradjuri woman, who holds her culture and background, and growing up in Sydney's Redfern close to her heart.

Mayrah is the Co-Founder and Co-Director at 33 Creative who produce NAIDOC in the City on behalf of the City of Sydney.

This year, the National NAIDOC Committee announced the theme Because of Her, We Can! - what does the theme mean to you, and how will the theme be reflected in the event?It is my personal favourite theme to date! It is so inspiring and an opportunity to stop and thank all the amazing Aboriginal women who have shaped me into the woman I am today. The event has been designed to bring in and celebrate as many Aboriginal women as possible – women’s art, female performers, female Elders, women leading the weaving. These are just some of the ways we will celebrate women.Can you tell us why celebrating NAIDOC Week is important?NAIDOC Week is one of our [33 Creative] favourite weeks of the year. It’s our chance to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures in all their amazingness. We’re so honoured to be able to produce the NAIDOC in the City event for Sydney to come along and experience all that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australia has to offer, especially through the lens of Because of Her, We Can!What does celebrating NAIDOC Week in Sydney mean for the local community?It means many things to many people. For me, it's about connection, celebration, education, and community.Can you tell our readers what to expect from the day at your event?So many things. Here are some of the highlights:

• watch live music and dance performances on the main stage, including Electric Fields, Mission Songs Project, Sue Ray, Microwave Jenny and Muggera dancers;
• wander through the art gallery – curated by Boomalli Aboriginal Artists Co-operative and APY Art Centre Collective – and see works by established and emerging female artists. Pictures by Sydney based photographer Barbara McGrady will be on display. Check out the stunning new artwork by local Aboriginal artist Shannon Foster that features on the City’s street banners flying during NAIDOC Week and beyond;
• enjoy a feast from the earth oven – a traditional method of cooking in an earth oven pit, using hot rocks and natural materials to seal in the heat and slow cook food for hours. Learn how to make tasty lemon myrtle biscuits and barbecue kangaroo fillet with Aunty Beryl Van-Oploo. Sample mouth-watering bites from a range of food stalls throughout the day;
• keep the kids busy these school holidays by visiting the kids’ zone, which includes dance, storytelling, canoe making, art and weaving workshops as well as zoo animals and face painting. Sporting activities include Indigenous games, soccer, netball, hockey and AFL;
• explore the market stalls selling art, craft, jewellery, clothes and gourmet produce;
• visit the cultural hub to learn about the City of Sydney’s Eora Journey and borrow books from the library’s Koori collection. Explore exhibits from ANTaR, the Art Gallery of NSW, the Australian Museum, the NSW Aboriginal Land Council, University of Technology Sydney, the University of Sydney’s Healing Our Spirit Worldwide, Tranby National Indigenous Adult Education and Training, the Australian Film Television & Radio School, Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, the State Library of NSW, University of NSW, the National Film and Sound Archive and the Indigenous Youth Climate Action Network.

 NAIDOC in the City: http://bit.ly/2KWXWoKNAIDOC in the City Hyde Park, Sydney | 10am - 2pm, Saturday 14 July | Cost: FreeFind a NAIDOC Week event near you: https://www.naidoc.org.au/" ["post_title"]=> string(94) "Celebrating women at NAIDOC in the City - Interview with 33 Creative Co-Director Mayrah Sonter" ["post_excerpt"]=> string(0) "" ["post_status"]=> string(7) "publish" ["comment_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["ping_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["post_password"]=> string(0) "" ["post_name"]=> string(39) "celebrating-women-at-naidoc-in-the-city" ["to_ping"]=> string(0) "" ["pinged"]=> string(0) "" ["post_modified"]=> string(19) "2018-07-10 13:11:02" ["post_modified_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-07-10 03:11:02" ["post_content_filtered"]=> string(0) "" ["post_parent"]=> int(0) ["guid"]=> string(76) "http://www.create.nsw.gov.au?p=20822&preview=true&preview_id=20822" ["menu_order"]=> int(13) ["post_type"]=> string(4) "post" ["post_mime_type"]=> string(0) "" ["comment_count"]=> string(1) "0" ["filter"]=> string(3) "raw" } [5]=> object(WP_Post)#1598 (24) { ["ID"]=> int(20828) ["post_author"]=> string(2) "21" ["post_date"]=> string(19) "2018-07-09 12:51:00" ["post_date_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-07-09 02:51:00" ["post_content"]=> string(4978) "[caption id="attachment_20856" align="aligncenter" width="440"] Gomeroi gaaynggal Centre's Possum Skin art, Tamworth 2018 NAIDOC Exhibition, Because of Her, We Can![/caption]

At the Tamworth Gomeroi gaaynggal Centre, all works have been created by Aboriginal women, who belong to the ‘Gomeroi gaaynggal’ mothers’ art and health program. We spoke with three women employed by the Centre about their work and the Centre.

Can you tell us what to expect at the 2018 Gomeroi gaaynggal Centre’s NAIDOC exhibition at Ray Walsh House in Tamworth this year? This exhibition and possum skin project was developed to create possum skin artworks depicting an important story of the artist’s life. Possum skins were traditionally given at birth, and as the child grew, additional skins were added during significant life events to eventually create a cloak they had for life. All skins were sustainably sourced from New Zealand.This year, the National NAIDOC Committee announced the theme, Because of Her, We Can! Can you talk to what it means to you - personally and through your work? The 2018 NAIDOC theme, Because of Her, We Can! reflects the ethos of the Gomeroi gaaynggal Centre. The staff at the Gomeroi gaaynggal Centre are very proud of the ongoing support the Gomeroi gaaynggal Centre gives to mums and their children, school students, community members, and the help to improve further generations with their health and their cultural identity.What advice would you give to young Aboriginal practitioners looking to start their career in the Arts? Work hard, believe in yourself and be committed to your goals. Open your mind to different creative processes and techniques to develop your art making skills.What’s next for you? Continue to grow the Gomeroi gaaynggal Centre’s ArtsHealth programs to provide support to the local community and highlight the importance that art plays in improving social and emotional wellbeing, whilst developing artistic skills of those who attend our programs.About the artists and the Gomeroi gaaynggal Centre The Gomeroi gaaynggal Centre, University of Newcastle, is a vibrant community Indigenous arts studio, gallery space and research centre. Gomeroi gaaynggal ArtsHealth programs support women aged from their early teens through to Elders and provide a safe and culturally appropriate space for women of all ages to create art and connect with each other, their culture and their local Indigenous community. The centre also runs workshops for young Indigenous people in the area which aim to connect the next generation more closely to their culture. The Gomeroi gaaynggal Centre employ three Indigenous Gomeroi women who are all artists in their own right.Executive Officer, Lyniece Keogh, is currently exhibiting in three exhibitions:

• Foyer of Ray Walsh House Tamworth 2018 NAIDOC exhibition, Because of Her, We Can!
• International exhibition, Re-Stitching Culture, currently on display at the Stellenbosch University Museum in South Africa
• As part of the National exhibition, the third Tamworth Textiles Triennial with the Gomeroi gaaynggal doll-makers.

Project Assistant, Jodie Herden is an established Aboriginal Artist with over 30 years in the arts industry. She has exhibited both nationally and internationally and has been commissioned for a number of public art projects. Jodie host regular workshops as part of her role at the Gomeroi gaaynggal Centre.  Jodie’s current exhibitions include:

• Foyer of Ray Walsh House Tamworth 2018 NAIDOC exhibition, Because of Her, We Can!
• 2018 Frost of Barraba.

Project Assistant, Kate Sutherland is an emerging Indigenous artist. Her artworks are currently on exhibition in:

• Foyer of Ray Walsh House Tamworth 2018 NAIDOC exhibition, Because of Her, We Can!
• As part of the national exhibition, third Tamworth Textiles Triennial as part of the Gomeroi gaaynggal Exhibition.

Gomeroi gaaynggal Centre: https://bit.ly/2IYPeEzFoyer of Ray Walsh House, Tamworth 2018 NAIDOC exhibition, Because of Her, We Can! 437 Peel Street, Tamworth | 8.30am – 5pm| Mon-Fri | Cost: FreeFind a NAIDOC Week event near you: https://www.naidoc.org.au/" ["post_title"]=> string(118) "The women of Tamworth's Gomeroi gaaynggal Centre goes beyond aesthetic by connecting a new generation to local culture" ["post_excerpt"]=> string(0) "" ["post_status"]=> string(7) "publish" ["comment_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["ping_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["post_password"]=> string(0) "" ["post_name"]=> string(39) "the-women-of-tamworth-gomeroi-gaaynggal" ["to_ping"]=> string(0) "" ["pinged"]=> string(0) "" ["post_modified"]=> string(19) "2018-07-10 15:01:13" ["post_modified_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-07-10 05:01:13" ["post_content_filtered"]=> string(0) "" ["post_parent"]=> int(0) ["guid"]=> string(76) "http://www.create.nsw.gov.au?p=20828&preview=true&preview_id=20828" ["menu_order"]=> int(9) ["post_type"]=> string(4) "post" ["post_mime_type"]=> string(0) "" ["comment_count"]=> string(1) "0" ["filter"]=> string(3) "raw" } [6]=> object(WP_Post)#1599 (24) { ["ID"]=> int(20681) ["post_author"]=> string(2) "21" ["post_date"]=> string(19) "2018-07-02 15:01:17" ["post_date_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-07-02 05:01:17" ["post_content"]=> string(4038) "[caption id="attachment_20719" align="aligncenter" width="440"] Artist impression of Newcastle Light Rail Project. Image courtesy Transport NSW.[/caption]

Create NSW in partnership with Transport for NSW is seeking expressions of interest (EOI) for the design and provision of an original public artwork as part of the delivery of the Newcastle Light Rail project.

It’s proposed the finished artwork will be installed on a 225-square metre space at Worth Place, between Hunter Street and Honeysuckle Drive.Heritage artefacts uncovered during early site works on the light rail project are to be celebrated and reused in a distinctive and original Public Artwork, which should help create a dynamic public space for the community and transport customers. Artefacts to be utilised include steel rail tracks, sandstone blocks and timber beams.Submissions close: Friday 3 August 2018 at 5pm (AEST/AEDT).

Submission requirements

Applicants are asked to respond to the following questions and material requirements:

• Respond to the artist brief and the project opportunity including the proposed scale, medium and relevance to site
• Describe your current practice, experience, achievements and career highlights
• Outline a similar experience relating to a project where you engaged with multiple stakeholders and collaborators

Support material requirements:

• A short biography and Curriculum Vitae (up to 3 pages)
• A letter of reference (optional)
• Samples of work / Relevant images – a limit of 10 images, clearly-labelled, with an accompanying image list with dates
• A sample budget for a similar scaled project

The information on this page is a guide only. Before you apply, please read the Newcastle Light Rail Public Art Commission - Artist Brief for more comprehensive information about the heritage materials, the EOI process, assessment criteria, timeline for this project and further information about the Newcastle Light Rail project.

Who can apply?

• Australian citizen or permanent resident
• Applicants based in the Hunter region, or who have an association with the region, are strongly encouraged to apply.

Project budget

• $80,000

For queries regarding the EOI process please email: David Everist, Manager, Engagement and Partnerships, Create NSW on David.Everist@create.nsw.gov.au or Nat Randall, Engagement and Partnerships Lead, Create NSW on nat.randall@create.nsw.gov.au

Apply now

Submissions close: Friday 3 August 2018 at 5pm (AEST/AEDT).To submit an EOI you will need to complete and submit the relevant application form through our secure online grants system.  APPLY NOWLink to application:https://artsnsw.smartygrants.com.au/2018NLRPublicArtEOI" ["post_title"]=> string(58) "Newcastle Public Artwork - Expression of Interest now open" ["post_excerpt"]=> string(0) "" ["post_status"]=> string(7) "publish" ["comment_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["ping_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["post_password"]=> string(0) "" ["post_name"]=> string(53) "newcastle-light-rail-public-art-project-eois-now-open" ["to_ping"]=> string(0) "" ["pinged"]=> string(0) "" ["post_modified"]=> string(19) "2018-07-18 10:53:51" ["post_modified_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-07-18 00:53:51" ["post_content_filtered"]=> string(0) "" ["post_parent"]=> int(0) ["guid"]=> string(37) "http://www.create.nsw.gov.au/?p=20681" ["menu_order"]=> int(8) ["post_type"]=> string(4) "post" ["post_mime_type"]=> string(0) "" ["comment_count"]=> string(1) "0" ["filter"]=> string(3) "raw" } [7]=> object(WP_Post)#1600 (24) { ["ID"]=> int(20653) ["post_author"]=> string(2) "21" ["post_date"]=> string(19) "2018-07-02 10:29:05" ["post_date_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-07-02 00:29:05" ["post_content"]=> string(3474) "

The revered Bundanon Trust Riversdale site, which served as inspiration for iconic Australian landscape painter Arthur Boyd, has received $8.5 million from the NSW Government’s new Regional Cultural Fund (RCF).

The money will be used to build a new gallery and storage facility at the famous property, on the NSW South Coast.The project is the largest of 68 exciting initiatives across regional NSW that have shared in close to $50 million from the first round of RCF funding.Arts Minister Don Harwin visited Bundanon Trust in Illaroo on the NSW South Coast to make the announcement, to coincide with the Trust’s 25^th anniversary.Deputy Premier John Barilaro and Minister for Regional NSW also confirmed applications for the second round of the RCF are now open, with a further $47 million in funding set to be allocated to regional arts and culture projects across the state.Mr Barilaro said as part of round two, up to $5 million would also be dedicated to the revitalisation and creation of public libraries as a priority, helping to extend community access to library services.“As I travelled the state announcing successful projects from round one, it was so pleasing to see how much the support meant to the people at the centre of our arts and culture communities in regional NSW,” Mr Barilaro said.“Our government is right behind regional arts and culture organisations and I encourage them to put their best foot forward to secure funding in this second round,” he said.Mr Harwin said he was delighted to announce Bundanon’s funding to celebrate its anniversary.“To stand here at Bundanon to announce the NSW Government’s commitment of $8.5 million to build a wonderful new gallery and storage facility is a truly special moment,” said Mr Harwin.“Arthur Boyd’s extraordinary works live on as enduring inspiration for the many passionate and talented artists across regional NSW.“This new facility housed on this famous landscape will pave the way for the Bundanon Trust’s revered $43 million collection to be housed and presented for all visitors to enjoy,” he said.Local Member for Kiama Gareth Ward says the funding was a demonstration of the NSW Government’s commitment to the regions.“The great Arthur Boyd is an amazing testament to the rich artistic talent here in the Shoalhaven,” said Mr Ward.“Only this government would make such a significant commitment to regional arts and culture in NSW,” he said.Applications for the next round of the Regional Cultural Fund will be open from 1 July and close on 21 September 2018.Mr Harwin said in addition to the $47 million available for community projects in round two, the NSW Government is funding a digitisation project under the Regional Cultural Fund to preserve cultural collections from regional NSW.“Arts, screen and culture is at the heart of every regional community. The success of our recent first round of funding shows the Government’s commitment to driving growth in arts, screen, culture and heritage in regional NSW is making a huge difference.”The $100m Regional Cultural Fund is a cornerstone of the $1.3 billion Regional Growth Fund.Guidelines for applying for the new round of RCF funding are available at – nsw.gov.au/regionalculturalfund" ["post_title"]=> string(99) "Bundanon's future secured with $8.5 million grant plus $47 million more for regional arts & culture" ["post_excerpt"]=> string(0) "" ["post_status"]=> string(7) "publish" ["comment_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["ping_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["post_password"]=> string(0) "" ["post_name"]=> string(94) "bundanons-future-secured-with-8-5-million-grant-plus-47-million-more-for-regional-arts-culture" ["to_ping"]=> string(0) "" ["pinged"]=> string(0) "" ["post_modified"]=> string(19) "2018-07-02 10:32:23" ["post_modified_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-07-02 00:32:23" ["post_content_filtered"]=> string(0) "" ["post_parent"]=> int(0) ["guid"]=> string(37) "http://www.create.nsw.gov.au/?p=20653" ["menu_order"]=> int(19) ["post_type"]=> string(4) "post" ["post_mime_type"]=> string(0) "" ["comment_count"]=> string(1) "0" ["filter"]=> string(3) "raw" } [8]=> object(WP_Post)#1601 (24) { ["ID"]=> int(20667) ["post_author"]=> string(2) "21" ["post_date"]=> string(19) "2018-06-29 15:15:23" ["post_date_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-06-29 05:15:23" ["post_content"]=> string(2799) "[caption id="attachment_20668" align="aligncenter" width="440"] Legend of Sun and Moon (left to right): Danny CHEN (DOP), Shawn DOU (Lead Cast), Eva JIN (Director), Todd Fellman (Producer), Eileen GONG (Producer).[/caption]

Minister for the Arts Don Harwin confirmed that the highly skilled special effects work on the major new Chinese/Australian feature film Legend of Sun and Moon will take place in NSW.

The production will spend almost $40 million on post production with NSW companies, including Definition Films, Slate VFX and Big Bang Sound, creating an estimated 250 jobs.The film has been secured for NSW by the NSW Government through its Made In NSW – International Footloose Fund, investing up to $10m in yearly funding to bring the very best in film and television to our shores.“Legend of Sun and Moon is the largest Chinese/Australian co-production to ever have been made and a big coup for the NSW screen industry that 100% of its specialised post work will be completed in the State,” Mr Harwin said.“NSW companies have built a strong international reputation for their creativity and technical brilliance in film and television post production and they have a significant track record of working successfully with China.”The production will be based at Sydney’s Fox Studios, with notable collaborators including Producer Todd Fellman, Writer and Director Eva Jin, and producers Beaver Kwei and Eileen Gong.Todd Fellman said: “Eva and I are extremely excited to be working with such incredible talent and world class facilities of NSW for the Post Production on Legend Of Sun And Moon, a unique and ambitious collaboration that will set a new benchmark for the potential of Chinese-Australian co-productions.”Legend of Sun and Moon is an adaptation of the classic tale of Chang-E, Goddess of the Moon and Hou Yi, the heroic archer who shot down nine of 10 suns that were scorching the Earth.The film will be distributed in China by Tencent with Chinalion handling the Australian theatrical release.Principle filming has just been completed in China." ["post_title"]=> string(60) "NSW lures the largest ever Chinese/Australian film to Sydney" ["post_excerpt"]=> string(0) "" ["post_status"]=> string(7) "publish" ["comment_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["ping_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["post_password"]=> string(0) "" ["post_name"]=> string(62) "nsw-lures-the-largest-ever-chinese-australian-film-to-sydney-2" ["to_ping"]=> string(0) "" ["pinged"]=> string(0) "" ["post_modified"]=> string(19) "2018-07-09 15:29:05" ["post_modified_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-07-09 05:29:05" ["post_content_filtered"]=> string(0) "" ["post_parent"]=> int(0) ["guid"]=> string(37) "http://www.create.nsw.gov.au/?p=20667" ["menu_order"]=> int(14) ["post_type"]=> string(4) "post" ["post_mime_type"]=> string(0) "" ["comment_count"]=> string(1) "0" ["filter"]=> string(3) "raw" } [9]=> object(WP_Post)#1602 (24) { ["ID"]=> int(20299) ["post_author"]=> string(2) "21" ["post_date"]=> string(19) "2018-06-26 17:25:04" ["post_date_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-06-26 07:25:04" ["post_content"]=> string(3429) "[caption id="attachment_20306" align="aligncenter" width="440"] Asian Animation Summit Spongo Fuzz Jalapeno[/caption]

Create NSW is partnering with the Asian Animation Summit (AAS) offering up to 3 new NSW projects to present at the Summit.

Applications open: 27 June 2018 Initial project submission deadline: 7 September 2018 Full submission of project materials: 21 September 2018 (5pm AEST - Sydney time)

What is the Asian Animation Summit?

The Asian Animation Summit – supported by hosting partner KOCCA (Korea); presenting partners MDEC (Malaysia) and BEKRAF (Indonesia); and supporting partners Create NSW and Screen Queensland (Australia), DITP (Thailand) and ASIFA China – has been the launchpad for a significant number of Australian animated series including NSW series Bottersnikes & Gumbles (2012), The Kazoops (2013) and Spongo, Fuzz & Jalapena (2015) (Cheeky Little).AAS offers a unique showcase of new animated children’s series seeking finance and production partners in the Asia-Pacific region.The AAS offers a unique opportunity for three NSW animation producers to showcase their work among their peers from Australia, Korea, Malaysia, Thailand and elsewhere in the Asia-Pacific, to seek co-production partners and to pitch their work to a select group of international broadcasters and decision-makers.Asian, European, UK and North American broadcasters and distributors come to the AAS looking for the best new projects from the region. The event has consistently proved itself to be an excellent platform for Australian producers to find investors and production partners.The 2018 showcase will be comprised entirely of brand new animated series aimed at young audiences aged up to 15 and intended for broadcast on free-to-air, subscription television, SVOD or other internet platforms.

When and where will the AAS take place?

The AAS takes place from November 28 to 30 in Seoul, South Korea.

What am I eligible to receive?

The 3 NSW projects will be selected to present at the AAS in front of content-makers, distributors, investors and broadcasters from across the Asia-Pacific region and will receive funding from Create NSW to support their travel (up to $3500 for individuals and $7000 for teams of two or more).

How do I apply?

To apply you will need to meet the Asian Animation Summit Eligibility Criteria and submit an executed Presentation Waiver with your application form on the Create NSW application system. Selected projects will be creatively exciting, and preference will be given to partially-funded projects over those still in development.Successful applicants to be notified by October 2018." ["post_title"]=> string(53) "Create NSW partnering with the Asian Animation Summit" ["post_excerpt"]=> string(0) "" ["post_status"]=> string(7) "publish" ["comment_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["ping_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["post_password"]=> string(0) "" ["post_name"]=> string(53) "create-nsw-partnering-with-the-asian-animation-summit" ["to_ping"]=> string(0) "" ["pinged"]=> string(0) "" ["post_modified"]=> string(19) "2018-06-27 16:00:29" ["post_modified_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-06-27 06:00:29" ["post_content_filtered"]=> string(0) "" ["post_parent"]=> int(0) ["guid"]=> string(76) "http://www.create.nsw.gov.au?p=20299&preview=true&preview_id=20299" ["menu_order"]=> int(29) ["post_type"]=> string(4) "post" ["post_mime_type"]=> string(0) "" ["comment_count"]=> string(1) "0" ["filter"]=> string(3) "raw" } [10]=> object(WP_Post)#1603 (24) { ["ID"]=> int(20746) ["post_author"]=> string(2) "21" ["post_date"]=> string(19) "2018-06-20 12:13:40" ["post_date_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-06-20 02:13:40" ["post_content"]=> string(2667) "

Minister for the Arts Don Harwin joined some of the country’s leading female screen talent to announce #SheDirects, a new initiative to bring more female directors to the forefront of the Australian screen sector.

Director and internationally renowned actor Rachel Griffiths as well as actor, writer, and director Leah Purcell were in attendance as Minister Harwin announced a $100,000 kick-start to increase the number of females in director positions.Minister Harwin says the funding is for up to four TV drama projects. “As the country’s leading State for film and television, we are committed to supporting the best female talent that Australia has to offer in key creative roles,” Mr Harwin said.“The industry has made excellent progress and #SheDirects will give even further impetus to ensuring gender is no barrier to achievement in this diverse sector.“In NSW we have incredible female screen talent in-front and behind the camera. It’s important that merit comes before any other factor in a person’s ambition to succeed.”Applications are open for one-hour TV dramas with a female director and at least one other female as part of the NSW-based key creative team.Rachel Griffiths commented, “Initiatives like #SheDirects are critical to help bring down barriers for women in the screen industry. Australia has always led the world in female participation in this universally male-dominated industry. I commend Minister Harwin for continuing these game-changing projects that will keep our industry in world’s best practice.”Leah Purcell added, “#SheDirects is a great initiative. Parity in our sector is a good thing and a worthy endeavour. We know women make up half the population so similar numbers behind the camera makes all the sense in the world. Talent and numbers are not the issue, opportunity and access are. I come from the Indigenous screen sector where women have been an important part of a modern Australian film and TV movement and #SheDirects will only broaden that and increase female participation as a whole.”Minister Harwin added, “as well as calling on female directors to apply, we urge the nation’s broadcasters to back this important initiative.”Applications are open until Sunday 5 August 2018. Full guidelines can be found here." ["post_title"]=> string(40) "NSW leads charge for female tv directors" ["post_excerpt"]=> string(0) "" ["post_status"]=> string(7) "publish" ["comment_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["ping_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["post_password"]=> string(0) "" ["post_name"]=> string(42) "nsw-leads-charge-for-female-tv-directors-2" ["to_ping"]=> string(0) "" ["pinged"]=> string(0) "" ["post_modified"]=> string(19) "2018-07-04 14:59:19" ["post_modified_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-07-04 04:59:19" ["post_content_filtered"]=> string(0) "" ["post_parent"]=> int(0) ["guid"]=> string(37) "http://www.create.nsw.gov.au/?p=20746" ["menu_order"]=> int(5) ["post_type"]=> string(4) "post" ["post_mime_type"]=> string(0) "" ["comment_count"]=> string(1) "0" ["filter"]=> string(3) "raw" } [11]=> object(WP_Post)#1604 (24) { ["ID"]=> int(20259) ["post_author"]=> string(2) "21" ["post_date"]=> string(19) "2018-06-18 16:19:43" ["post_date_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-06-18 06:19:43" ["post_content"]=> string(3715) "[caption id="attachment_20262" align="aligncenter" width="440"] Emma Dunch, CEO Sydney Symphony Orchestra. Credit Richard Blinkoff[/caption]

Emma Dunch is the CEO of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. During her 20-year cultural management career, Emma has partnered with more than 125 creative organisations in the United States, the U.K., and Australia, and served in leadership capacities across every artistic discipline. Ahead of Make Music Day on 21 June we spoke to Emma about the Sydney Symphony Orchestra’s plans for the day.

 Can you tell us what excites you about Make Music Day?Music is a universal language and through regional and international touring, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra has always been passionate about removing barriers to music and making it accessible to everyone. Make Music Day is an exciting day for music lovers across the globe to come together and celebrate music. The day will be made even more special this year with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra’s livestream of Verdi’s Requiem, as this will be the flagship event in Australia’s first participation in the worldwide festivities.What inspired you to include the Sydney Symphony Orchestra in Make Music Day 2018?Leading Australia’s first flagship event in the Make Music Day celebrations was a natural fit. The Sydney Symphony Orchestra is passionate about removing barriers to music and ensuring that everyone has access to it – this is at the core of everything that we do. Being able to share our music through technology with people all around the world, and on this special day when the international music community comes together to celebrate music, made perfect sense. We’re proud to represent Australian talent on an international platform. Who are some of the partners you have on board this year?With the support of Create NSW, ABC Classic FM, Sydney Opera House Creative Learning, Music Australia, the Australian Music Association, the State Library of New South Wales, who will be sharing the broadcast in regional libraries across New South Wales, and Parramatta Council, who will broadcast the concert at Sydney Olympic Park, the livestream will be the flagship event in Australia’s first participation in the worldwide music festivities.What are the ways that audiences can connect with Sydney Symphony Orchestra on the day?There are a number of ways that people can join us in celebrating music on Make Music Day. A livestream direct from the Sydney Opera House will be accessible via sydneysymphony.com on Thursday 21 June, 6.30pm AEST, free of charge. The footage will be available for 24 hours following the conclusion of the livestream.It will also broadcast at the Sydney Olympic Park and in libraries across regional New South Wales including Armidale, Cessnock, Canowindra, Maitland, Parkes, Tamworth, Taree, Tumut, Wagga Wagga and more. Regional Conservatoriums across NSW will also broadcast the livestream.Tune into the livestream at sydneysymphony.com on Thursday 21 June from 6.30pm AEST. " ["post_title"]=> string(99) "Sydney Symphony Orchestra will stream Make Music Day 2018 live to the world from Sydney Opera House" ["post_excerpt"]=> string(0) "" ["post_status"]=> string(7) "publish" ["comment_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["ping_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["post_password"]=> string(0) "" ["post_name"]=> string(99) "sydney-symphony-orchestra-will-stream-make-music-day-2018-live-to-the-world-from-sydney-opera-house" ["to_ping"]=> string(0) "" ["pinged"]=> string(0) "" ["post_modified"]=> string(19) "2018-06-26 14:58:58" ["post_modified_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-06-26 04:58:58" ["post_content_filtered"]=> string(0) "" ["post_parent"]=> int(0) ["guid"]=> string(76) "http://www.create.nsw.gov.au?p=20259&preview=true&preview_id=20259" ["menu_order"]=> int(30) ["post_type"]=> string(4) "post" ["post_mime_type"]=> string(0) "" ["comment_count"]=> string(1) "0" ["filter"]=> string(3) "raw" } [12]=> object(WP_Post)#1605 (24) { ["ID"]=> int(20252) ["post_author"]=> string(2) "21" ["post_date"]=> string(19) "2018-06-18 15:05:21" ["post_date_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-06-18 05:05:21" ["post_content"]=> string(3556) "[caption id="attachment_20255" align="aligncenter" width="440"] Jannah Beth[/caption]

You might not know Jannah Beth yet...introducing Jannah, a diverse Sydney artist delivering a unique mix of smooth raps, soulful melodies, and experimental beats.

 How did you get started as an artist?Music began as a therapy for me, writing poetry in early primary school - I was very drawn to the space I could create for myself and the clarity I gained from writing. I became enchanted with rhythm and learnt to play the drums which later on combined with my poetry to become the beginnings of my song writing. It’s never really been anything else, so my guess since birth. Maybe it’s destiny.Who are your influences?As I am so influenced by rhythm and rhyme, Hip Hop has been a big part of my influence and makes up a portion of my own listening. Artists like Kendrick, Little Simz are standouts for me as well as people like Sampha, who I find artistic, classic and interesting. I am also influenced by visual artists and take daily inspiration from my surroundings, people and nearly everything. Even you might end up in song.What do you think bringing Make Music Day to Australia will do for Australian artists?To be honest I’d never heard of Make Music Day previously to getting involved with this event, but I’ve come to learn that in France, where it started 36 years ago they have a public holiday and the streets are filled with music everywhere. I think it’s a great way to connect globally with a community of people who are on a mission to liven up the streets with music. It’s grassroots beautiful and people could benefit from connecting together on levels like this, it’s something for everyone - not just the artists.Can you tell us what excites you about Make Music Day?I think a holiday that is about celebrating music and everybody joining in to collaborate is special. Everybody listens to music. A day of participating in something that takes up such a big place in our day to day lives would encourage acceptance and connectivity within a community. It also may encourage people to engage with the role of music in our lives and leave us to ponder what role music has played in history. Movements like Make Music Day are a step closer to celebrations like this, so I find it exciting for that reason.What’s next for you?I’m about to release a song in July! It’s exciting to think I’ll be able to share it soon. Stay tuned, there is a groovy film clip to accompany. Other than that, it’s back into the studio to keep writing music and refining my process - I think I’ll have a busy year ahead!Jannah Beth links:

• https://open.spotify.com/artist/6eC2CFvVSX6FZRJqTqXwZh
• https://www.facebook.com/soundslikejannahbeth/
• https://soundcloud.com/jannahbeth

" ["post_title"]=> string(99) "Jannah Beth is encouraging acceptance and connectivity as she sings praises for Make Music Day 2018" ["post_excerpt"]=> string(0) "" ["post_status"]=> string(7) "publish" ["comment_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["ping_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["post_password"]=> string(0) "" ["post_name"]=> string(99) "jannah-beth-is-encouraging-acceptance-and-connectivity-as-she-sings-praises-for-make-music-day-2018" ["to_ping"]=> string(0) "" ["pinged"]=> string(0) "" ["post_modified"]=> string(19) "2018-06-26 14:58:31" ["post_modified_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-06-26 04:58:31" ["post_content_filtered"]=> string(0) "" ["post_parent"]=> int(0) ["guid"]=> string(37) "http://www.create.nsw.gov.au/?p=20252" ["menu_order"]=> int(32) ["post_type"]=> string(4) "post" ["post_mime_type"]=> string(0) "" ["comment_count"]=> string(1) "0" ["filter"]=> string(3) "raw" } [13]=> object(WP_Post)#1606 (24) { ["ID"]=> int(20250) ["post_author"]=> string(2) "21" ["post_date"]=> string(19) "2018-06-18 14:59:18" ["post_date_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-06-18 04:59:18" ["post_content"]=> string(3699) "[caption id="attachment_20258" align="aligncenter" width="440"] Tony Nesbitt[/caption]

On Thursday 21 June, you can Sydney Olympic Park during the day at Jacaranda Square and in the Yulang in the evening for a unique sonic journey that includes a live cross to the Sydney Symphony Orchestra performing Verdi’s Requiem at the Sydney Opera House and a curated program presenting some of the best of Western Sydney’s emerging musical talent.

See its program for the day here: https://bit.ly/2M1TULNSee this link for more information on Verdi’s Requiem: https://bit.ly/2JTEc85 Can you tell us what excites you about Make Music Day?There are a number of things that I find exciting about this event. It’s great for the Park to be part of such a wonderful international initiative that celebrates music in its purest form. We’ll have everything from kids who are learning their craft through to young people beginning to make their musical mark, with it all culminating in a performance by one of the world’s truly great orchestras, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. It’s a truly unique event, and it’s only fitting it should be celebrated here at Sydney Olympic Park, Australia’s Concert Capital and home to the very best in live musical performance.What does celebrating Make Music Day in NSW do for local artists?I think the international scope of the event gives local musicians an opportunity to be part of something that connects them with the wider world of music. The universality of music is unique among the artforms, and this event, which is already huge throughout the world, really reinforces the integral role of music in the broader human experience. Ultimately, it’s a really great opportunity for locals who sing and play to hone their craft in front of new audiences in a relaxed, informal and ‘pressure free’ environment.Why is Make Music Day important to the Western Sydney community?As those of us who work in the arts in Western Sydney have long known, there is an abundance of musical talent in this part of the world. Events like Make Music Day not only allow local musicians to showcase their wares, they give audiences a ready-made opportunity to engage with and support their home grown talent. It’s also a useful reminder that cultural expression isn’t merely something peripheral or discretionary, it’s a fundamental part of what it means to be human, and its humans who make up communities in Western Sydney and everywhere else.What does Make Music Day mean for the future of the NSW music industry?I think that Make Music Day drives home the point that for a country to have an authentic and vigorous cultural life, it must have a viable live music industry. The essence of music is bound up with the emotional exchange that occurs during live performance, and events such as Make Music Day, which celebrate this moment of connection between musician and audience, remind us of how important it is to ensure that live music venues and performance opportunities remain as an integral part of the cultural life of the city." ["post_title"]=> string(110) "Sydney Olympic Park Authority is leading the Western Sydney live music charge to celebrate Make Music Day 2018" ["post_excerpt"]=> string(0) "" ["post_status"]=> string(7) "publish" ["comment_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["ping_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["post_password"]=> string(0) "" ["post_name"]=> string(110) "sydney-olympic-park-authority-is-leading-the-western-sydney-live-music-charge-to-celebrate-make-music-day-2018" ["to_ping"]=> string(0) "" ["pinged"]=> string(0) "" ["post_modified"]=> string(19) "2018-06-26 14:58:00" ["post_modified_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-06-26 04:58:00" ["post_content_filtered"]=> string(0) "" ["post_parent"]=> int(0) ["guid"]=> string(37) "http://www.create.nsw.gov.au/?p=20250" ["menu_order"]=> int(31) ["post_type"]=> string(4) "post" ["post_mime_type"]=> string(0) "" ["comment_count"]=> string(1) "0" ["filter"]=> string(3) "raw" } [14]=> object(WP_Post)#1607 (24) { ["ID"]=> int(20245) ["post_author"]=> string(2) "21" ["post_date"]=> string(19) "2018-06-18 14:32:51" ["post_date_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-06-18 04:32:51" ["post_content"]=> string(3393) "[caption id="attachment_20247" align="aligncenter" width="440"] Warwick Thornton awarded the Sydney UNESCO City of Film Award[/caption]Warwick Thornton, the acclaimed filmmaker and artist, was last night awarded the 2018 Sydney UNESCO City of Film Award at the Closing Night of the 65th Sydney Film Festival.The $10,000 cash prize is bestowed annually by Create NSW, under the auspice of Sydney UNESCO City of Film, to an outstanding NSW-based screen practitioner whose work stands for innovation, imagination and impact. The two previous recipients have been Lynette Wallworth and Leah Purcell.Presenting the award bandaged after a soccer accident, artist and close friend Ben Quilty said that he looks up to and admires Warwick, who he called “perhaps the biggest conceptual thinker” he’d ever met.Receiving the award, Warwick Thornton said, “This is awesome, thank you. My whole family is in the crowd tonight. I flew in last night to go and watch my son’s [Dylan River] movie Finke: There and Back, which just blew my mind, and it’s only because I taught him everything he knows.“But my mother flew in to watch the film as well, and I haven’t seen my mum for a while because she lives up in Cooktown. And I just want to say that everything that you see on that screen and every movie that you ever see that I make, is because of my mother. She made me believe in dreams, made me run amok and do things my way, and she opened doors and introduced me to some of the most amazing filmmakers in Australia. And those amazing filmmakers taught me some of the most beautiful morals and ideas about cinema. And so for mum – I thank you, and to all those incredible filmmakers who taught me how to make a bloody movie – I thank you.”The prize also includes up to four-weeks’ residence at ‘Charlie’s, a hub for the Australian film-making community in Los Angeles, opened by Australians in Film, in partnership with Create NSW, AFTRS and Screen Queensland. ‘Charlie’s’ offers a unique creative workspace in Charlie Chaplin’s former apartment at the historic Raleigh Studios in Hollywood, for Australian screen practitioners to conduct business, collaborate and network.Warwick Thornton’s most recent film, Sweet Country, garnered audience and critical acclaim around the world, winning major awards including the Special Jury Prize at the Venice Film Festival, the Platform Prize at the Toronto International Film Festival and Best Feature Film at the Asia Pacific Screen Awards. His first feature film Samson & Delilah won the Camera d’Or for best first feature film at the 2009 Cannes International Film Festival. His other directorial credits include the 2017 Sydney Film Festival opening night film We Don’t Need A Map and The Darkside.Warwick is also a renowned cinematographer, with credits including The Sapphires, Radiance and Here I Am. He is also a highly regarded visual artist and photographer." 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This year Sydney Film Festival presents the return of Festival favourite, Screenability, a platform for screen practitioners with disability leading the narrative, in partnership with Create NSW and the NSW Department of Family and Community Services. This international program showcases the best of 2018, spanning drama and documentary from NSW, Israel and the UK, offering insights and unique perspectives on life. Ahead of Screenability, we spoke to the Guest Programmer, Sofya Gollan.

 Last year Screenability became one of the hot tickets for the Festival with many sessions selling out. Why do you think there was so much interest?I believe a key attraction was that a key creative (writer/director or producer) of each film had to identify as having disability and be intent on pursuing a career in the industry. It was really clear from films being submitted that there was a hunger to tell authentic stories, which were not gaining a platform elsewhere.Disability is more present in most people lives than they realise. It might not be themselves but a family member who may have disability, a friend, a work colleague or a sweetheart -and seeing these films is an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences that people they know or love better.Given the stories in the program are in the hands of people with disability, they are going to challenge the status quo and provide insights that abled bodied people would never have. Audiences respond really well to that kind of authentic provocation, and there is a lot of strength and joy in representing things as they really are, rather than politically correct wishful thinking of how things should be, aka ‘inspiration porn’.The Screenability Sydney Film Festival Opening Night will be held on Thursday 14 June at 6:30pm at Hoyts Entertainment Quarter. It will be the World Premiere screening of three exciting new NSW-made short films made possible through the Create NSW Screenability Filmmakers Fund. Can you tell us about the significance of the fund and having these three NSW made shorts opening the program?Filmmakers with disability are underrepresented in the industry – especially in key creative roles. With the Screenability Filmmakers Fund Create NSW wanted to provide the opportunity for filmmakers to make a world-class short films in line with their peers.It has been a learning curve in terms of getting the message out there that this is a professional opportunity for those with a desire to create stories in the long term. And that means recognising that disability is a significant barrier in gaining the experience needed to make a world-class short film. As a result, I am thrilled we will screen Samia Halabi’s Tip Of My Tongue, Dieter Knierem’s Intimate Encounters 20 Years On and Daniel Monks’ Broken on the program’s Opening Night.To be selected to screen at Sydney Film Festival in Screenability, the story, and world of the short film had to be compelling. We were fortunate to receive a number of projects that spoke to that standard.This year’s program showcases the best of 2018, spanning drama and documentary from Australia, Israel, Austria and the UK. Can you us tell us how you chose this program?I wanted to be entertained and moved – that was really important. Going to the cinema still needs to have that special experience –  sitting in the dark, watching a film that takes you elsewhere, and that tells you something new. I was also seeking out a range of stories and this year we have two films by deaf filmmakers – I was conscious they were not represented last year – To Know Him and The Sign For Love they are fantastic stories that resonated very strongly with me.In 2018 we’ve seen a bit of a shift in the visibility of people with disability on screen, for example through the ABC series Employable Me. Do you think things are changing, and what needs to happen?We need more filmmakers with disability being in charge of the disability narrative. They are best placed to be that authentic voice. I believe as a creator, our own lives tend to influence how stories are told in the most profound way – how else to explain that certain severity of Middle Eastern films against that of the wintry, dry wit of Finnish cinema? Each culture has its own stamp and that is true of the disability arts community. It influences and shapes world views just as much as national culture does.For filmmakers without disability, how can they best represent people with disability in their projects, so they don’t just end up being tokenistic?There is a very definite culture at play within disability circles and it does take lived experience, whether you have a disability, a family member or work within disability, to understand what makes for an authentic telling. I would include independent consultation – it’s not enough to cast disabled actors in the role and expect them to also be the expert, you still need that independent voice that can advise when prejudices and assumptions are getting in the way of authenticity. It is pertinent to make the comparison, ‘would you make an Indigenous narrative without Indigenous talent involved?’. That consideration for disability should be accorded the same respect.What advice you have for emerging practitioners with disability in the industry?Pick up a smartphone and make something, if you have no access to people or equipment. Start small. Make a lot. The more you do, the more you get it. It’s also about networking to get the best talent and collaborators for the budget you have; making decisions how best to use your time and resources to serve the story; and you will start to attract people who will want to work with you and take you to the next level. And be a polite, hardworking collaborator and you will find people will want to work with you again.View the program here: https://bit.ly/2s0C6Z4" ["post_title"]=> string(59) "Interview with Screenability Guest Programmer, Sofya Gollan" ["post_excerpt"]=> string(0) "" ["post_status"]=> string(7) "publish" ["comment_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["ping_status"]=> string(6) "closed" ["post_password"]=> string(0) "" ["post_name"]=> string(58) "interview-with-screenability-guest-programmer-sofya-gollan" ["to_ping"]=> string(0) "" ["pinged"]=> string(0) "" ["post_modified"]=> string(19) "2018-06-26 14:57:02" ["post_modified_gmt"]=> string(19) "2018-06-26 04:57:02" ["post_content_filtered"]=> string(0) "" ["post_parent"]=> int(0) ["guid"]=> string(37) "http://www.create.nsw.gov.au/?p=20203" ["menu_order"]=> int(34) ["post_type"]=> string(4) "post" ["post_mime_type"]=> string(0) "" ["comment_count"]=> string(1) "0" ["filter"]=> string(3) "raw" } }