With the devastating impact of COVID-19 on the arts and culture sector, the Arts Plan is more important than ever in guiding government investment and policy to underpin the sustainability of the arts and culture sector for the benefit of the South Australian community.

On 24 September 2020, Premier Steven Marshall announced a $10.2 million funding package to create jobs and fast-track recovery in South Australia’s arts and culture sector.

Investment is aligned with four priorities; collaboration and partnerships; theatre and festival recovery; digital innovation; and mentorships, that align with the values and goals of the Arts Plan.

The sector has embraced the Arts Plan, with organisations responding to its vision and embedding its intent and recommendations within their strategic planning, operations and practice. In the wake of COVID-19, the sector has engaged with audiences in new and innovative ways as well as traditional models when they are able.

Key highlights and achievements that align with the plan’s goals are detailed below.

Arts and Culture Grant program

Arts South Australia has completed the review of its grants program, designed to help empower South Australia’s artists and makers. The Arts and Culture Grant program launched in August, spanning art forms and areas of practice for professional artists and arts organisations to develop, make work and engage with audiences. Investment in the sector also assists in building partnerships and creative collaborations that enhance South Australia’s longstanding reputation as a great place for arts and culture.

South Australian Creative Industries Strategy

The pending release of the South Australian Creative Industries Strategy demonstrates a connected approach to advocacy and future government investment in the sector. The strategy is industry led, facilitated by the Department for Innovation and Skills, in consultation with the Department for Trade and Investment and the Department of the Premier and Cabinet (Arts South Australia).

Cross-agency collaboration

The JamFactory has announced the FUSE Glass Artist Residency, an extension to the FUSE Glass Prize made possible through generous philanthropic support. The biennial residency aims to create significant opportunities for an established, mid-career artist working in glass, and will include a four-week residency at the JamFactory as well as a solo exhibition within the new galleries of Carrick Hill. This initiative demonstrates new and innovative cross-agency collaboration, leveraging private sector support and a commitment to empower South Australia’s makers and creators.

To note other project completions, view the updates per objective on the Recommendations and government’s response page.

Learn more about the arts review and plan for South Australia.