$8.9k awarded to arts projects, from talent show to fibre crafts

Five local creative projects have received financial support to get off the ground, after $8,968 was awarded during the latest round of Stratford district’s Creative Communities Scheme (CCS) funding.

Councillor Ellen Hall, Stratford CCS Assessment Committee Chair, says the funding can have a real snowball effect on the local arts community.

“Creativity sparks creativity. Local exhibitions and opportunities to create and perform are so important. They grow interest in our local arts scene, draw people into it, and soon they’re part of the scene too – they’re one of us,’ laughs Hall.

“It’s great to be able to offer support to our young people as well. In this round, we’ve awarded funds to offer homeschooled youth the chance to take part in group art classes, and for aspiring young performers to get up onstage.”

CCS is a partnership between the Stratford District Council and Creative New Zealand. The scheme funds arts projects that increase the range and diversity of local arts, strengthens participation, and enhances the local arts sector. The next round for the Stratford district will be open from 19 August 2024.

More information about the fund and application process is available at Stratford.govt.nz/CCS

Stratford district’s successful applicants from the latest funding round are: