So you’ve got an idea for a creative project but don’t know where to start in terms of turning that idea into a reality. You may need time, development, resources, materials, collaborators, space and funding (that old chestnut). It can be overwhelming knowing how to take those first steps and in this article filmmaker and Colour Box Studio founder Amie shares a few ideas to get those creative juices flowing.
GET IT ON PAPER
Writing your ideas down on paper is a crucial step. Whether you’re a fan of dot points, you like to mind-map or go straight to a spreadsheet, it is imperative to articulate your project ideas in written form. At some stage you’ll apply for funding, pitch your idea or email someone asking for support.
Do as much research as possible. Consult with potential team members and project partners. Be sure to consider any permissions and protocol around authenticity and representation before making any big steps.
DRAFT A PROJECT PROPOSAL
From my experience writing funding proposals and being on the other side of the table assessing project applications, it’s important to have a solid plan and approach. Creative project proposals often include:
- A project summary – Outline what you plan to do.
- Team – Who is involved?
- Audience – Who is the project for? Why you & why now?
- Timeline – Use milestones to nut out the project schedule and deliverables.
- Budget – Show how the moolah will be spent.
Once you have considered all of these aspects, even if your project proposal is a work in progress, you’re well on your way to opening up the possibilities of taking next steps.
FIND YOUR PATHWAY
Outside of the traditional state and national arts funding bodies there are various platforms and pathways that may help in developing your idea, securing funding, creating awareness around your project and finally getting it off the ground.
FUNDRAISING
Australian Cultural Fund (ACF)
The ACF provides an online platform for artists to fundraise towards their creative projects. The ACF is administered by an NGO, Creative Partnerships Australia, and donations over $2 are tax deductible for your project donors. There are a variety of categories and artistic mediums showcased on the site. For new users, there is a starter kit with all of the information to register and start receiving donations. If you’re eligible, it takes about 3 days for your project to be approved.
As of 1st December 2021, there are no fees taken by ACF for your fundraising campaign. 100% of funds go directly to your project. If you don’t reach your goal, you keep what you raise and if you go over your goal, same deal. In the month following your campaign end date, you receive your funds in the form of a grant.
Keep in mind that when running any fundraising campaign, you will need to have a good marketing strategy to share about your project, videos, images and a clear project proposal. Compared to crowdfunding, ACF is a pretty great deal especially because they don’t take a fee, and donations are tax deductible for your supporters.
LOCAL COUNCIL FUNDING
If you plan to run your creative project in your local council area it’s worth checking in with their arts & culture department to see what opportunities are available for funding and support. Generally around Australia, local councils will have dedicated funding for artists and creative events. You may also be able to connect your creative project with their festival programming.
The other area to search is your council’s business & tourism streams where your creative project might crossover, particularly if you’re partnering with other businesses in your area. In some cases councils have arts advisory boards, workshops or networking opportunities for creatives. Often you can get in contact with an arts worker and have a meeting. Get searching and reach out.
RESIDENCIES AND LABS
Artist residencies often provide space, time, resources and community to work on your creative project away from your usual place of practice. It is an opportunity to pack up your computer, art supplies and notebook to find a unique creative outlet in order to develop your project ideas. Generally an application is required and residencies can be free of charge or paid depending on the program. The location could be anywhere from a farmhouse in the country to a city studio space. Around Australia, and internationally, you can find a diverse range of opportunities for artist residencies. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Residencies in Your State
The National Association for the Visual Arts (NAVA) has a comprehensive list of residencies around Australia. Grab a cuppa and click through to spend some time perusing the different offerings: Click here.
This is a great list of international art residencies available via The Artling: “The Ultimate Guide to International Art Residencies in 2022”.
Res Artis
Res Artis is a worldwide network of arts residencies offered by organisations and arts entities. Their membership extends across 75 countries. An application process is necessary for any residency call outs. Many of the residencies ask for a fee, with some offering subsidies and discounts. The benefit is a unique environment to work on your project or practice, exhibition opportunities for your work in a professional setting and networking with other artists. Res Artis also has information and resources for creatives at risk including emergency residency opportunities.
Filmmaking Labs
In the world of film, there are various labs available for screenwriters, producers and directors often as part of film festival programming. I’ve been fortunate to participate in Berlinale Talents as part of the Berlinale International Film Festival, the Toronto International Film Festival Filmmaker Lab, and the Sundance Creative Producers Summit. Click through to my website for shared stories about those filmmaking lab experiences.
CONNECT WITH YOUR CREATIVE COMMUNITY
Closer to home, tap into your local networks and find artists in your area to collaborate with. Building a team around your creative project is a mutually beneficial way to develop project ideas, pool resources and keep the momentum going.
Local Arts Orgs and Spaces
Explore the independent arts sector in your town or city. Who are the local arts organisations, artist run initiatives (ARIs) or community arts spaces in your area? They might not be the bigger museums, theatres and art galleries but these smaller spaces regularly offer creative programs, subsidised exhibition spaces, mentorship programs and other creative opportunities. From BlakDot Gallery in Melbourne to First Draft in Sydney, these spaces showcase a plethora of artistic mediums and creative work. Artist talks and exhibitions at your local gallery or arts space are often free to attend and a great way to connect with other artists and potential collaborators for your project.
NAVA has a list of ARIs around Australia: Click here
GET READY!
Now that you’ve got a plan for your creative project sketched out, get clicking through to some of those links, apply for opportunities and venture out into your community to expand your networks. Hopefully these few suggestions will provide some inspiration on your creative journey and help to get your creative projects off the ground.
Any organisations mentioned are curated to provide information and resources for our creative community. This post is not sponsored in any way or part of affiliate marketing.