Ipswich creatives to learn how best to ARTiculate their talent

26 April 2023

The Ipswich creative scene is about to get a boost with a series of workshops designed to encourage, upskill and develop individuals as part of a new initiative called ARTiculate.

Community, Culture, Arts and Sport Committee Chairperson Councillor Andrew Fechner said the workshops were an opportunity for Ipswich creatives to dive in and make the most of opportunities to upskill.

“We are excited to launch the ARTiculate workshops and provide a platform for local visual artists, musicians, performers, writers to grow and develop their skills,” Cr Fechner said.

“The creative industries are a vital part of the Ipswich community, and we want to support and nurture the talent that exists here.”

The program will be facilitated by experienced professionals from the creative industries, who will share their knowledge and insights with participants.

The initial workshops cover a range of topics including:

  • Grant writing to encourage Regional Arts Development Fund submissions.
  • Creating proposal and honing the skill of artist bios, resume writing and council creative applications.
  • Understanding social media management and content creation; and
  • Empowering artists to host their own workshops with ‘how to teach your craft’ classes.

Melanie Saward, Ipswich author and co-chair of the Ipswich Arts Advisory Group, said the workshops are a great initiative to support artists.

“I am excited to attend the social media workshop, I have a book release later this year and it would be beneficial to learn ways to engage people through Instagram,” Ms Saward said.

“Writing is my passion but during my career I have learnt that to earn money as an artist I need to be business savvy and not just focused on my craft.

“ARTiculate will be a great resource for Ipswich’s passionate and broad Arts community.”

Cr Fechner said the workshops reinforce council’s broader engagement plan for the arts community and offer artists the chance to provide feedback on what skills they would like to further develop.

“The ARTiculate workshops are a part of council’s ongoing commitment to deliver on our Arts and Cultural Strategy,” Cr Fechner said.

“We understand the value that the creative industries bring to our community, and we are committed to providing the resources and support necessary for those who need them to thrive.

“We are excited to build our arts engagement and collaboration across the community to continue to deliver opportunities and champion diversity of expression across the region.”

Participants will have the opportunity to network with other creatives in Ipswich, share ideas, and collaborate on future projects.

The workshops are open to creatives in Ipswich from all backgrounds and experience levels.

For more information and to register for the ARTiculate workshops visit Shapeyouripswich.com.au/creativeindustries