Six Councils in metropolitan Melbourne are working together to support their creative communities: in providing them free career support via the ArtsACTION program.
Made available January to June 2023, ArtsACTION delivers inspiration and professional development for artists and creatives to activate career pathways, broaden networks, and build market reach.
The program is facilitated by Pop Up Art, a division of not-for-profit Jumpleads NFP and offers a six-part email resource pack, Zoom workshops, and access to a growing supportive network. The workshops cover topics such as being market ready, working together effectively and digital communities.
Jumpleads Director and program facilitator Sharon Seyd, who has been working in the creative industries for over 35 years, says “This program recognises that creatives are often under-resourced and overlooked – despite their importance as a highly valuable, vital sector of our communities.”
“According to Creative Victoria, in 2019-20, the creative sector contributed $31.6 billion to the Victorian economy, 8.6 per cent of the total state workforce.”
“The partners coming together behind this initiative, recognise the need for artists to develop relevant career skills and the support required for them to foster viable practices” says Sharon
“Through our experience delivering the previous four programs and working with 1000’s of artists, we have found most creatives want greater opportunities for exposure. Many need information, methods, and frameworks to maximise their potential.”
ArtsACTION is free of charge for anyone living or working within Brimbank, Cardinia, Hume, Melton, Nillumbik and Yarra Ranges, thanks to generous contributions from these Shires, who have jumped on board for multiple beneficial reasons.
For all, ArtsACTION is contributing to the fulfilment of creative strategies within the confines of limited resources; offering practical assistance to creative communities who have been hit hard from challenges such as Covid19; and recognising that by bolstering the creative sector, there are flow on benefits for the community as a whole.
Cardinia Shire Mayor Councillor Tammy Radford said supporting our local emerging artists is vital given the hardship the creative industries have faced over the last couple of years.
“Council is excited to partner with Jumpleads and five other Metro Melbourne councils to deliver this program. The program will help us to empower local emerging artists and give them the tools they need to take control of their creative careers,” the Mayor said.
Emerging or professional visual artists, performers, writers, musicians, arts workers, and people involved in community arts or creative industries, are invited to participate. It’s particularly relevant for creatives looking to grow their career, build their business, step up their organisation, or connect with other creatives across Victoria and beyond. Everyone is welcome.
ArtsACTION is free to participate and will be delivered entirely online from January to June 2023.
