Territory-based artists have the opportunity to combine art with wildlife through this year’s Artists-in-the-Park Program (AiP) at the Territory Wildlife Park (TWP).

The AiP first started in 2011 and TWP artistic/narrative co-ordinator Jasmine Jan said the number of positions available would double to eight this year.

“The AiP is designed to give adult artists opportunities to access the Park’s amazing collection of flora, fauna and naturalistic style exhibits,” Ms Jan said.

“The Program is open to a range of creative practices and platforms such as sculpture, painting and drawing, textiles and fibre, jewellery, photography, dance, theatre, text, new and mixed media.

“Artists who successfully qualify for this year’s AiP will be able to interact with Park visitors and showcase their arts practice, or even get staff and visitors to participate in workshops or community arts projects.

“Anyone who qualifies for this year’s AiP will be provided with a materials allowance, a 12 month Territorian pass and behind the scenes access to animals, exhibits and staff.”

Pastel artist Janelle Fisher undertook the AiP in 2011 and said it remains a unique and significant opportunity in her artistic journey, some of the works produced as a result of this are visible at www.janellefisherfineart.com/Janelle_Fisher_Fine_Art/Gallery/Pages/Wildlife.html

“The Program allowed me to more deeply draw on the Park’s resources, gather reference material and learn about the animals and their habitats from the inspiring keepers and guides.

“The connections made with people during the residency, both staff and artists, remain and I am so grateful for the opportunity,” Ms Fisher said.

Wildwords Group writer Helen Hansen said the AiP gave her the opportunity in 2012 to share her work with others, “which is an artist’s ultimate goal”.

“Our team of four writers were able to publish ‘Wild Words” and Anthology of short fiction and poetry inspired by the environment of the Park,” Ms Hansen said.

“Seeing my writing in print for the first time has been an invaluable experience which has encouraged me to grow and develop my skills in my chosen craft.”

Artists can contact Ms Jan on 89887228 or email jasmine.jan@nt.gov.au to obtain an AiP application form and proposals need to be submitted by the 27 February deadline.

Ends

Media Note – for more information contact Jasmine Jan on 89887228

Issued: 9am Wednesday, 28 January 2015