Local emerging artists often hear about a time in the arts scene when funding was abundant and a career in a creative field was robustly supported. These stories come accompanied by utterances about bygone eras – of the Dunstan government and the ’90s creative boom.

It’s best to exercise caution with this type of sentimentality, as often the “good old days” are only good in hindsight. Nonetheless, emerging as a creative in South Australia is now an exceptionally difficult task.

Recognising this, the Helpmann Academy works to offer opportunities that can assist people in forging successful careers. Now, with the support from members of its latest donor circle HA>NESS, it has established the HA>NESS Development Grant, which offers funds of up to $3000 for eligible emerging creatives.

The HA>NESS Development Grant was announced as part of a HA>NESS meet-the-artist event at Hugo Michell Gallery. The event featured South Australian photographer Trent Parke, whose exhibition MONUMENT is currently on show at the gallery, with guests also hearing from local emerging artist Ellis Moseley.

Moseley was the recipient of a Helpmann Academy grant which supported his exhibition with Hugo Michell Gallery earlier this year. “The support from a Helpmann Academy grant allowed me to make the most of a rare opportunity and ensured that I was able to present the best possible work for exhibition,” he said.

Helpmann Academy CEO Jane MacFarlane told the gathering that being a member of HA>NESS was “not just about the fun parties, exclusive events, and gifts – it’s about having a meaningful impact… in the future, you may walk into a space with an internationally successful artist and be able to say, ‘I helped make that happen. I supported that artist to chase their career, to dream big, and to be ambitious!’.”

The inaugural HA>NESS Development Grant round will open for applications on September 11, 2023. Learn more about HA>NESS, including how to become a member, here. The donor circle is supported by LK Law and the Macquarie Group; Helpmann Academy acknowledges the Plus 1 campaign from Creative Partnerships Australia and extends special thanks to Chris and Christine Guille.

Trent Parke’s exhibition MONUMENT is at Hugo Michell Gallery until August 26 – read InReview’s review of the exhibition here.

Henry Wolff is a visual artist and arts worker living and working on Kaurna Country. Through their role of engagement coordinator with the Helpmann Academy, they are responsible for coordinating the HA>NESS program.

 

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