Art bursary opens for young artists

Young emerging artists are encouraged to apply for the annual $1000 bursary that pays tribute to one of Mackay’s celebrated artists, the late Rick Wood.

Funded by The Artspace Mackay Foundation and supported by Mackay Regional Council, the Hands On Bursary is now an annual initiative.

Community Services and Facilities portfolio councillor Karen May said this bursary recognises Rick Wood’s service and enthusiasm for the arts and seeks applicants that demonstrate that same enthusiasm and dedication to succeed in their chosen field.

“The Hands On Bursary launched last year is an initiative to provide support and encouragement for young people who wish to pursue a career in the arts,” she said.

“We received many high calibre applications for the bursary last year with the first recipient being Nicola Laidlow, a former Mirani State High School student and talented printmaking artist,”

The bursary now in its second year and is open to local resident artists aged 17-25 including current Year 12 students who gain acceptance into a recognised tertiary arts course in 2011 (this includes any aspect of the visual arts or creative arts industry).

This $1000 bursary may be used for tuition fees, textbooks or equipment required as part of the student’s studies.

All young artists interested in applying for the bursary must provide the foundation with a letter outlining why they should be considered, a resume of artistic achievements and a disc containing images of their works.

Year 12 students are also required to state which university course they will be seeking acceptance into. Applicants who are currently studying, or have completed their tertiary education should provide all course information.

A panel of arts professionals will evaluate the applications and interview short-listed applicants.

Applications are now open and should be posted to: The Artspace Mackay Foundation, PO Box 41, Mackay, Queensland, 4740. Applications close on Friday, November 26, 2010, and the successful artist will be announced mid-February 2011 (following confirmation of university placements).

For more information about the Hands On Bursary, phone Artspace Mackay Foundation executive officer Melissa Broadhurst on 4951 2299 or email artspacefoundation@mackay.qld.gov.au.

Contact: Melissa Dunn

Phone: 1300 MACKAY (1300 622 529)