Yarra City Arts statement regarding our response to Coronavirus (COVID-19)
The rapidly evolving Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis is a current worldwide health issue. In recent weeks we have seen major upheaval to daily life, including to the arts and creative sectors. Widespread event cancellations and postponements, venue closures and travel bans are having catastrophic impacts on the arts and creative industries.
In these challenging times, many artists and arts companies throughout the world have responded by finding new ways to share their talents with a frightened and isolated community, and this has been a wonderful reminder that we are a part of a global creative community. Streamed encore operas from the Met in New York, special connections with DJs and live music artists via virtual platforms, Melbourne’s own Isol Aid music festival with musicians performing from their homes, and the LGBTI+ Elders Online Dance Club are just a few reminders that the arts are part of the soul of a civilized society and that artists are agile and adaptive to this challenge.
We know the immense social, financial and cultural impact this pandemic is having on the creative community locally and worldwide. Yarra City Arts is currently working with Council and the sector to assess how we can best extend additional support to communities affected by the crisis, and continues to advocate for investment and support of artists, arts and cultural activities, and creative spaces.
The Yarra City Arts team is working and available to support our creative community during this time. For organisations and individuals who have current projects supported by Yarra City Arts, we have communicated our flexible approach regarding timelines, fund use and reporting – as we aim to support you in making necessary changes during this challenging time. Above all, we wish to convey our ongoing support for your important community work.
We have been heartened by the incredible adaptability of our arts and creative sector during this challenging and stressful time, with many creative responses, rapid adjustments and shows of solidarity being witnessed across the sector and within the Yarra community. For current programs, many of which will increasingly be available online, please see our .
We will be increasing our communications to keep you up to date with changes to services and Yarra City Arts programs. To receive the latest updates to your inbox,
