Territorians are invited to apply for arts grants for projects commencing next year.

Arts NT director Angela Hill said individuals, groups and non-profit organisations can apply for up to $20,000 to research and develop new artworks, develop skills as artists or arts workers and present or promote Territory arts practice through exhibitions, performances and publications.

Ms Hill said a special category for emerging artists provides up to $15,000 for artists within the first five years of their professional practice.

“More than 215 Territory artists, organisations and arts activities received Northern Territory Government arts grants in one form or another last financial year totalling $7.4 million and it’s great to be able to provide this vital support,” Ms Hill said.

Funding highlights included:

·   $14,970 for Gary Lang NT Dance Company for the creative development of a new Aboriginal ballet, ‘Dolly Dance’ (working title) by renowned Indigenous, Darwin-based choreographer Gary Lang.

·   $10,000 for the recording and launch of the ‘Land Rights’ album by the Lazy Late Boys to coincide with the 50th Anniversary of Freedom Day Festival, commemorating the Gurindji, Wave Hill Walk Off and the birth of Aboriginal Land Rights in Australia at Daguragu, which is also the home of The Lazy Boys.

·   $6860 for the Artists at Fogg Dam to develop work inspired by the Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve culminating in a curated exhibition at the Tactile Arts Gallery in October which will feature paintings, ceramics, textiles and sound.

“The NT Arts Grants Program provides funding to develop and showcase the artistic talent of the Territory, grow the arts and creative industries and enrich the lifestyle of Territorians through arts and cultural activities,” Ms Hill said.

“The development and growth of the creative arts sector benefits the Territory community and the economy and I encourage eligible artists and community arts organisations and groups to apply for an arts grant to help support their project.”

Applications are now invited to apply online through Grants Tracker for the 2016 Project Round 2, closing at 5pm Tuesday, 2 November 2016.

Go to https://artsandmuseums.nt.gov.au/arts-nt/arts-nt-grants for more information and grant guidelines.

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Media Note – Angela Hill is available for interview on 0477740186