Platform Youth Arts has announced a new program in Geelong to support emerging artists to develop their practice, undertake research and initiate collaborations that will strengthen the future of their arts careers.
Coined Platform LAB, this new, free program will provide considerable benefits to emerging artists by offering time and space as well as financing new works and providing ongoing mentorship.
Designed to cater to artists and collectives across all disciplines, from performance makers, visual artists, sound/lighting designers, writers and interdisciplinary artists, individuals are encouraged to apply for a six-month residency – from 21 September 2020 to 26 February 2021 – receiving $5000 cash and ongoing support from industry professionals.
Up to four successful individuals or collectives will be invited to participate in this new opportunity, which will focus on the skills and process of each artist or collective, rather than final outcomes such as exhibitions or performances.
Alongside $5000 cash, each successful applicant will receive six months in-kind studio and rehearsal space at Platform Arts; participation in two LAB Intensives, facilitated by Platform Arts staff and leading local and international artists; on-going mentorship and support from Platform programming and producing staff (including technical and marketing/media support); and industry previews of creative developments (online and in person).
“We are particularly interested in engaging artists who are exploring new ideas and experimental, multidisciplinary art. Platform LAB is for emerging artists who want to evolve their practice and are open to collaborating with other creatives and mentors at Platform,” says Platform Arts Executive Producer Ilana Russell.
“The Platform LAB program will foster critical thinking and collaboration among our next generation of artists. With Victorian youth unemployment at 16.1%*, there is an urgency to create programs that provide time, space and financial support for young artists to continue developing their practice and furthering their art careers.”
While Geelong artists are encouraged to apply, the residency is open to all artists from around Victoria on the condition they are able to travel to Platform Arts on the key dates.
Submissions open now and close on Friday 28 August. Platform will present a live Q&A session via Instagram (@platformartsgeelong) on Tuesday August 4, 5.30 PM. Applicants are encouraged to submit their questions prior to applications closing at the end of August.
To learn more, submit questions and apply visit the Platform Arts website.
*Australian Bureau of Statistics records as at May 2020
