Arts Access Victoria News

Hi everyone, another month goes by. Welcome to the July 2009 edition of the Arts Access Victoria Enews. This issue has some great exhibitions, opportunities and workshops, news, and a very interesting Odd Spot for you to enjoy.



Jeffrey Philips Lights Up Gertrude St!

A brilliant new screen-based work ‘Menagerie’ by artist Jeffrey Philips is showing nightly THIS WEEK ONLY at Northside Records, as part of the Gertrude St Projection Festival, alongside a stellar group of local and international artists.

Produced by Arts Access Victoria as part of the Art Day South program, ‘Menagerie’ is inspired by the work of nineteenth-century experimental photographer Eadweard Muybridge, known primarily for his early use of multiple cameras to capture motion, and his zoopraxiscope, a device for projecting motion pictures that pre-dated the celluloid film strip that is still used today.

Philips has re-interpreted Muybridge’s seminal photographic works, painstakingly illustrating each sequence frame by frame; in collaboration with artist Rhian Hinkley, these were then compiled into digital animations using Flash technology.

‘Menagerie’ can be seen nightly between 6.30pm -12 midnight at Northside Records, 26 Gertrude St, Fitzroy, until Saturday 11 July. Be part of the Gertrude Walkabout, Thursday 9 July, a night to get out and about on a self guided walk. Starts at 8.00pm at Sentido Funf.

For full details, please visit
http://www.thegertrudeassociation.com/projects/gertude-st-prjection-festival-2009/projection-artists


Footscray House Art Exhibition

Arts Access Victoria is pleased to announce the launch of the Footscray House Art Exhibition; featuring a range of two- and three- dimensional works created by participants of the Footscray House Art Group. The Footscray House Art Group, a collaborative project coordinated by Arts Access Victoria, offered participating residents of Footscray House the opportunity to develop new skills through creative self-expression.

Facilitated by Melbourne-based artist Theodore Giannoukas, the eight-week program encouraged participants to experiment with new techniques while exploring collective themes and issues. Recurring themes of ‘identity’ and a ‘sense of place (home)’ were strong references as participants collaborated to create a body of work in a relaxed, fun and supported environment. The importance of the ‘process’ in conjunction with the finished artworks informed the program throughout, as participants discovered the freedom and joy of interacting with like-minded artists. The culmination of the collaborative process, the showing of the Group’s artwork at the Cage Gallery in South Kingsville, opens Wednesday July 8 and runs until July 28.

WHEN: 8 – 28 July 2009 (Mon to Fri, 9.00am – 4.00pm)
WHERE: Cage Gallery, South Kingsville Community Centre - 43 Paxton Street, Spotswood
COST: Free
For all enquiries, please contact Arts Access Victoria on (03) 9699 8299, TTY (03) 9699 7637 or info@artsaccess.com.au



Portraits and Spaces

















Arts Access Victoria presents Portraits and Spaces; an exhibition by artists from Stewart Lodge. Curated by artists Elyss McCleary and Chris Palethorpe, Portraits and Spaces evolved through a series of workshops with the residents of Stewart Lodge that explored processes in drawing and painting. Beginning with collages and image collecting, ideas were further developed into works investigating the themes of homes, friends, interior and exterior spaces. Chris Palethorpe documented this process and performed photography sessions with the group around the local neighbourhood of Lygon Street and Sydney Road.

The artworks expanded into intuitive and planned compositions of personal stories, discussions and immediate reactions by the Stewart Lodge artists to the surrounding environment. 'Portraits and Spaces' will be on show from 17 July at The Olive Way, Uniting Church Hall, a vibrant community space supporting Brunswick’s creative talent.

WHEN:
Exhibition Opening: Friday 17 July 2009, 10.30am - 12.00pm
Exhibition Dates: 21 July – 6 August 2009 (Tues - Thurs, 10.00am –1.30pm)
WHERE: The Olive Way, Uniting Church Hall - 214 Sydney Road, Brunswick
COST: Free
For all enquiries, please contact Arts Access Victoria on (03) 9699 8299, TTY (03) 9699 7637 or info@artsaccess.com.au



New Artist Consent Form Now Available!

Designed specifically for use in disability arts projects, this freely available document can be used by participants, artists and organisations to better protect their right to consent to how their work is shown.

Using a combination of symbols and Plain English, the Consent Form document offers all parties involved in a project the opportunity to choose how their images, voice and likeness are portrayed.

To dowload the Consent Form & Guidelines, please click on the link below
http://www.artsaccess.com.au/news/index.cfm?id=430



So You Think Deaf Can Dance?

A fun program of Dance Workshops, presented by Deaf Arts Network, Arts Access Victoria. In 8 weeks you’ll learn dance skills that will knock everybody’s socks off! Hip Hop, Funk, Jazz, Cha Cha, Latin, Contemporary, Salsa, Tango and more!

COST: $100 for 8 workshops or $15 per workshop

All workshops are run by professional dance artists and are open to 16 years of age & over. Workshops start early August; venue to be confirmed.

To register your interest, please contact Deaf Arts Network:
TTY: 9699 7636 / Tel 9699 8299
Email: deafartsnetwork@artsaccess.com.au

Arts News

$73,805 in regional arts funding announced for Victoria

Source: Joseph Toohey, Regional Arts Victoria

The Minister for the Arts, the Hon Peter Garrett AM, has announced that funding for 8 projects totalling $73,805 will go to regional, rural and remote communities across Victoria through the Regional Arts Fund, an Australian Government program administered in Victoria by Regional Arts Victoria.

“This round was very competitive,” newly-appointed Chair of Regional Arts Victoria Dennis Goldner said. “It is great to see a number of first time applicants applying to the Regional Arts Fund through the new ‘Toe in the Water’ category. We are also pleased to see such a diverse range of projects including sculpture, theatre and dance.”

Successful projects funded in Round One in 2009 include:

• In Horsham, artists Nick Wilson, Erin Hall and emerging local artist, Ben Leslie will work with Horsham's Men Shed and the ConnectEd youth program to construct a series of kinetic wind powered sculptures as part of the Art is… Elemental Festival.

• In Bendigo, Central Victorian artists, Michael Harkin and Seung Hi Lee, will work with participants of all abilities through the Golden City Support Services and CreateAbility Events Network to develop a performance project involving dance and digital-media.
  

• In Clunes, artists Rosalind Lawson and Lynden Nicholls, in conjunction with the Back To Booktown literary event, will work with local artists and school children to create sculptural biographies of five local identities.

• In Wahgunyah, artists Benjamin Gilbert and Chris Upton will work with members of the local community to run workshops aimed at exploring art and sculpture, its arrangement and construction, using found objects and recycled materials.

A complete list of successful applicants is available at http://www.rav.net.au/about-us/news-media/story/144/.

The Regional Arts Fund was established to give all Australians in regional and remote areas better access to opportunities to practice and experience the arts. The Regional Arts Fund also aims to increase opportunities for isolated Indigenous and/or smaller regional communities.

Round 2, 2009 of the Regional Arts Fund Project Grants are open now. For more information, including details of information on information consultations, go to http://www.rav.net.au/about-us/news-media/story/130/.

For more information, please contact:

Susan Strano
Manager, Creative Communities Victoria
Regional Arts Victoria
Phone: 03 9644 1800
Email: sstrano@rav.net.au

$801,000 to Support New Arts Projects Across Victoria

Source: Arts Victoria

Victoria's thriving arts sector has received a $801,000 Brumby Labor Government grants boost announced today to support the creation, presentation and programming of new works across the state. Arts Minister Lynne Kosky said 53 arts projects had received funding in the latest round of grants through the Arts Development program.

"The Brumby Government is taking action to develop and strengthen Victoria's reputation as Australia's cultural capital," Ms Kosky said.

"The Arts Development program supports and further develops our artists and our artistic reputation by supporting innovative, engaging and inspirational new arts projects across the state."

Ms Kosky said the latest grants supported diverse arts activity from a broad cross-section of Victorian artists and organisations.

"Projects supported in this round reflect the creative strength and diversity of the arts sector across Victoria, from emerging and established artists working across all artforms including dance, literature, theatre and sculpture, music and multi-artform collaborations."

Read the full article via this link

Events

Does My Art Look Good?

Source: Infoxchange Australia

Gifford Arts Project, a UnitingCare Harrison program, is proud to present their new exhibition with works from over 20 artists. Gifford Arts is a weekly disability arts program conducted from the Uniting Church Hall at Croydon North.

Some works will be for sale at the exhibition so come along and support local artists with disabilities and check out their skills and talents in painting and drawing. You may find a painting that is just right for your home or office.

WHEN: Thursday 9 to Wednesday 22 July 2009.
WHERE: Chapel on Station Gallery, corner of Station Street and Ellingworth Parade, Box Hill.
COST: Free.

For more information, contact Jane Davoren on 03 9871 8700 or jane.davoren@harrison.org.au. Visit the UnitingCare Harrison website at http://www.unitingcareharrison.org.au/



Journey of Changes

Andrew Follows is a photographer with retinitis pigmentosa - a degenerative disease that renders him legally blind. He is totally blind in one eye and the sight in the other is continually declining. This hasn't stopped him pursuing his passion for photography. Andrew's world opened for him three years ago with the help of his now best friend, Eamon, his guide dog. It is difficult not to be impressed by what Andrew can see through the eye of his lens. He captures the essence of everyday life that many of us simply take for granted. Join Andrew at his latest exhibition: Journey of Changes.

WHEN:
Friday 21 August, 11.00am-3.00pm
Saturday 22 August, 11.00am-5.oopm
Sunday 23 August, 11.00am-3.00pm
WHERE: Black Spur Inn - 436 Maroondah Highway, Narbethong

The exhibition will include professionally printed and framed photographs of varying sizes both on print and on canvas. Andrew will be donating 20% of all proceeds from the exhibition to the Narbethong CFA.

For further information, contact blinkiephotography@iprimus.com.au


Footscray 150 years

Footscray Community Art Centre would like to wish the City of Footscray a very Happy 150 Birthday! From humble beginnings, great things grow and Footscray is no exception. On Saturday 18 July, Footscray Community Arts Centre's very own Bec Reid (Producer, Arts & Community) will be getting the crowd moving with a special mass dance workshop. So come learn the FootscraZy Dance with us and help celebrate Footscray’s 150th Birthday!

WHEN: Saturday 18 July, 11am - 4pm
WHERE: Nicholson Street Mall and Maddern Square, Footscray



Neami Splash Exhibitions

Source: Rosemary O'Neill, Neami Splash Art Studio

Neami Splash Art Studio is pleased to invite you to an exhibition of the work of two artists, Andrew Maude and Karen Jenkins.

• D'evolution is an exhibition of paintings by Karen Jenkins.
• Exercising My Solidarity is an exhibition by Andrew Maude.

We hope to see you there.

WHEN:
Exhibition Openings: 5-8pm on Thursday July 16th
Hours until July 30: Sunday 1-5pm, Mon-Sat 10am-6pm
WHERE: Hagan Gallery - 310 Smith St, Collingwood.

For further information, contact Rosemary O'Neill on 9484 7555 or rosemary.oneill@neami.org.au



Strum-a-rama showcase

Source: Jessamy Gee, Mental Health Music Network

The Music Network songwriters are showing off their skills at IDGAFF Bar on Wednesday 12th in a special showcase evening. Great music, door prizes and giveaways.

WHEN: Wednesday August 12th, 7:00pm - late
WHERE: IDGAFF Bar - 160 Hoddle Street, Abbotsford
COST: Gold coin entry



Roarhouse upcoming

Source: Marjetka McMahon, Roarhouse

Roarhouse presents live showcases of music, performance art and spoken word for your enjoyment. The gigs coming up soon are:

WHEN: Thursday 16th of July @ 7pm
WHERE: 303 - 303 High Street, Northcote

WHEN: Wednesday 29th of July @ 7pm
WHERE: Esplanade Hotel, Basement Bar - 11 The Esplanade, St Kilda

Check the website soon for the line-ups

Roarhouse is a non-profit, vibrant, socially inclusive live showcase of music, spoken word, poetry and performance arts event presented fortnightly at various venues. Roarhouse, driven by artists and volunteers, supports performance opportunities for our entire community of artists, including those marginalised, disadvantaged and/ or challenged with mental health issues.


Cancer Council Victoria 2009 Awards Exhibition

Source: Arts Victoria

Cancer Council Victoria will open its 2009 Art Awards Exhibition with a free public event on Sunday July 19.

Cancer Council Victoria's inspiring exhibition will bring together the most outstanding works from entrants of all ages who have shared their cancer experiences through visual art, short story, film, poetry and indigenous art. Judged by high profile experts, each artwork chosen for the exhibition is unique and demonstrates how no two cancer journeys are the same.

WHEN: Sunday 19 July from 3-5pm. The exhibition will be open until 7 August before touring Victoria.
WHERE: In the foyer of 120 Collins St, Melbourne.

For more information call 1300 65 65 85 or visit www.cancervic.org.au/artsawards.



Orchestra Victoria concerts

Source: Nova Stelarc, Arts Victoria

Orchestra Victoria has two upcoming concerts in Melbourne. Details are below.

Orchestra Victoria Makes Musical Art
Experience the thrills and skills of Orchestra Victoria in concert beneath the stained glass ceiling of the magnificent Great Hall. Inspired by the NGV’s Salvador Dali: Liquid Desire exhibition, the program will include film music from Psycho by Dali’s contemporary and celebrated film composer Bernard Hermann. Orchestra Victoria will also perform Manuel de Falla’s Three Cornered Hat Suite No 1 and Ritual Fire Dance, Satie’s Gymnopedie and Berio’s Folk Songs starring Israeli born mezzo-soprano Rinat Shaham. This concert will be conducted by Marko Letonja.

Proudly presented by Orchestra Victoria in association with Public Programs, National Gallery of Victoria.

WHEN: 1pm Tuesday 28 July
WHERE: Great Hall, NGV International - 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne
COST: Free

Ticket bookings are recommended. To book tickets, please call 9694 3669 or email info@orchestravictoria.com.au


10th 3MBS Classically Melbourne Concert with Orchestra Victoria
The annual 3MBS Classically Melbourne concert highlights the collaboration between 3MBS, Orchestra Victoria and the Arts Centre, demonstrating their commitment to showcasing great performances and developing new works.

Come and enjoy this free orchestral concert at Hamer Hall, conducted by Marko Letonja, with an exciting program featuring the winning composition from the 10th 3MBS National Composer Award. The program also includes Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition, Weber’s Der Freischütz Overture and Saint-Saëns’ Piano Concerto No. 2 in G minor, Op. 22 featuring soloist Andrea Lam.

Proudly presented by Orchestra Victoria, 3MBS and the Arts Centre.

WHEN: 7pm Thursday 6 August 2009
WHERE: The Arts Centre, Hamer Hall
COST: Free

Tickets are booking quickly and are subject to availability. Register for your tickets and vote for your choice of encore online at www.theartscentre.com.au/freeconcert

Opportunities

Neami creative group

Source: Roarhouse Community Noticeboard








Neami presents Creative Arts Group. This is an opportunity to nurture your creativity in movement, performance and storytelling. Work together in a group with an experienced creative director. Have fun & laughter while getting to know yourself and others.

Weekly workshop
WHEN: Starting 15th June between 2-4pm
WHERE: Leinster Hall - 99 Leinster Grove, Thornbury

Tea and coffee will be provided. Please wear comfortable clothing.

For information and eligibility, please call Wendy at Neami Darebin on 9484 0333.


Polished Boreds

Source: Infoxchange Australia

Karden Disability Support Foundation is about to commence a new, innovative program for people with high support needs. Polished Boreds is a music project that aims to be a world leader in creating opportunities for people with complex disabilities to write, develop and produce musical shows, and to demonstrate that people with high support needs can produce quality performances. The program also aims to build confidence and self esteem for all participants. With its positive attitude and absolute belief in the participants, 'Polished Boreds' aims to be awe-inspiring and leading edge.

We are looking for participants for this tremendous project!

'Polished Boreds' aims to change the lives of the participants in an extremely positive way, showcasing them to Australia and the world.

Contact Vincent Heley on 03 5331 7924 or 0434 693 302 for more information.



Grit Media: Hosting Bootcamp - Now Enrolling

In response to an over whelming desire on the part of mentorees to learn about hosting and also because GRIT are constantly on the lookout for potential new hosts, we have decided to run a "Hosting Bootcamp" at RMITV studios.
Here is a General Overview of the Bootcamp and an idea of what you will be undertaking...
- Learn how to break down host copy and make the best choices from a working script
- Learn how to review copy and prepare to host
- Learn how to work and interact with a co-host
- Learn how to work with a teleprompter
- Learn how to sell a product while incorporating your personality
- Learn the secrets of nailing a host audition and much more

On the second day of the workshop we will be filming each participant so that they will leave the workshop with a show reel of their own work. We will be working with green screen techniques, a teleprompter and a professional lighting set up and camera operator in a studio. When the weekend is over all participants will have a DVD of themselves, enough confidence to audition as a television host and certainly a whole lot of funny memories. The bootcamp will be taken by Naomi Davis (Professional actor/ RMITV Programming Manager for C31/ Casting Assistant & Drama Teacher for Lilly Dawson Casting).

WHEN: Thursday August 13 and Friday August 14 from 2.00pm until 9.00pm
WHERE: RMITV Studios, cnr Swanston and Franklin Streets, RMIT City Campus, Building 12, Level 2
COST: $100 (disability pension concession) / $200 (full)

Places are limited and it is filling fast so please contact Vanessa at GRIT at vanessa@gritmedia.org.au to register your interest. A down loadable copy of the application form is available from the Grit website at http://www.gritmedia.org.au/


Just Us Drama are Auditioning

Source: Cathy Horsley, City of Port Phillip

JustUs Drama is a theatre group inclusive of people who have an intellectual disability. JustUs meet on a Thursday from 11.30am - 3.30pm during school terms. JustUs meet at a hall on the Corner of Hotham Street and Inkerman Street in East St Kilda. There are currently up to three positions available at JustUs.

The group are currently working toward a major production at Theatreworks in late November.

Contact Cathy Horsley on 9209 6530 if you would like to arrange an audition or need more information.



Arts-Activated Conference 2010 - Call for papers

Source: David Finnigan, Accessible Arts

Accessible Arts is convening the second Arts Activated Conference at the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney on 25-26 March 2010. The theme of the conference, Arts - Access - Excellence, will explore process, practice and innovation relating to inclusion of people with disability in the arts.

Accessible Arts invites submissions for proposals to present at the conference. The Arts Activated conference aims to be interactive and outcomes driven and will be looking for creative and interactive presentations that incorporate participatory elements. The closing date for submissions is 30 August 2009. People with a disability are encouraged to apply.

Further information and invitation to present/call for papers application form:
www.aarts.net.au/arts-activated-conference-2010

WHEN: 25-26 March, 2010
WHERE: Powerhouse Museum, Sydney

For more info, contact Jane Pollard on (02) 9251 6499 or jpollard@aarts.net.au



Roarhouse Seeks...

Source: Fi Caskie, Roarhouse

Roarhouse needs more people to tackle the volunteer positions of MC, reviewer, sound engineer, photographer and general stage management volunteering at gigs. If you've been kind of thinking about MC'ing or getting into review-writing or any of the others, now is the time to put your hand up as we move through to the second half of the year! Looks great on your CV, fantastic for networking and meeting people and incredibly personally rewarding! So give it a go and put your name down now!



Footscray Community Arts Winter Workshops

Footscray Community Arts Centre’s Winter Workshops Program offers two separate terms crammed with an extensive range of high-quality, low-cost workshops all conducted under the guidance of experienced and highly skilled artists and tutors, including representatives from National Institue of Circus Arts (NICA), Australian Centre for Contemporary Art (ACCA), Chunky Move and the Arts Centre.

Further detailed information on individual workshop classes can be found via this link.

Download the current Workshops Program via this link.

It’s easy to get involved. You can take the plunge and sign up for an eight or ten week course or simply dip your toe in the creative waters and turn up casually for a session to give it a try. Why not test drive a few different workshops by purchasing a 5-session card?

Download an enrolment form via this link or contact Footscray Arts on 03 9362 8888 or via email to enrol.

Click here to join our workshops mailing list and be the first to hear about special offers and workshops updates.



Term 3 09 Brimbank Arts and Culture Courses

Source: Christine Healey, Hunt Club

Brimbank Arts and Culture Courses are designed specifically for people with a disability. This is a sample of classes on offer in Brimbank. All courses are inclusive of people of all abilities.

Ambient Orchestras
This program is designed for young adults with an intellectual disability who wish to create electronic and acoustic music as part of an ensemble. The program provides opportunities for musical skill development, artistic expression and collaboration within the group as well as with musicians from the wider community.

WHEN: Monday, 10 August for 6 sessions 1pm to 5pm OR Wednesday, 12 August for 6 sessions 5pm to 9pm
COST: $90, includes instruments


Everyone’s Pottery
This pottery course is designed by our experienced potter to provide a safe and playful environment for participants of all ages with a disability. Classes are small and students can produce creative pottery works at their own pace.

WHEN: Thursday, 23 July for 8 sessions 1:30pm to 3pm
COST: $135 / $110, includes basic materials

Class sizes are limited so please enrol as soon as possible to ensure your place in class. When class sizes reach their maximum limit no further enrolments will be accepted. A minimum number of participants are required for each class to go ahead. If this number is not reached the class will be cancelled and participants notified.

Enrolments for these classes are taken at the Hunt Club Community Arts Centre
775 Ballarat Road, Deer Park
Phone: 9361 6600
TTY: 9249 4999
Email: huntclub@brimbank.vic.gov.au
Web: www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/arts


We Want You - Mad Hatters Event Team

Source: Jessamy Gee, Mental Health Music Network

The Music Network is starting an event team for people with mental illness to learn the skills to produce and run Mad Hatters.

If you are keen to get event management and production experience and contributing to an awesome event aimed at presenting a positive public image of mental illness, wed love to hear from you.

Times and dates to be confirmed, but sessions will run on a weekday afternoon in North Melbourne.

Email us to put forward an expression of interest.


Weekly Songwriting Workshops

Source: Jessamy Gee, Mental Health Music Network

Are you interested in music, song-writing and making new friends?

Come join our weekly workshops in songwriting, music playing and performance - and a fine social time with a great bunch of people. Working with Pete Satchell (Dallas Crane) and guest musicians. We are looking for new FEMALE members in particular - come down and show those boys how its done!

Email us to register or for more info.

WHEN: Every Wednesday 1-4pm
WHERE: Sol Green Community Centre - cnr Coventry and Montague St, South Melbourne.
COST: $5 per person per week. Refreshments provided.



Call for applications – Groundswell Indigenous Music Touring Project

Source: Arts Victoria

The Groundswell has begun! Applications are now open for the inaugural Groundswell Indigenous Music Touring Project. Groundswellwill bring together 3 Indigenous music soloists or groups (one each from NSW, QLD and VIC) for a three week tour of the eastern seaboard in September/October 2009. Artists chosen to take part in the tour will play professionally promoted and advertised gigs in prominent music venues in Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra and Melbourne. Participating artists will also have access to career development support from music industry professionals to assist them in advancing their live performance careers.

To apply, you must, be of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent, currently reside permanently in QLD, NSW or VIC, and have a current or upcoming CD release and live music performance experience. Artists covering all music styles are encouraged to apply.

Entries close on Monday 20 July 2009.

For more information and application forms, visit www.arts.vic.gov.au/groundswell, or contact Jonathan Williamson or Elizabeth Liddle on T: 03 8683 3100 or Freecall: 1800 134 894 (toll free outside of Melbourne only) or email vicrocks@dpc.vic.gov.au

Odd Spot

Pavaricini the Piano Man

Sources: Mail Online, LiveScience, Derek Paravacini.net

Derek Paravacini is a musical genius. Derek has absolute pitch, which means that "...when he hears a chord with ten notes in it, he can identify every one. Most professional musicians can get about five." [Mail Online]

He can also identify the pitch and key of any sound that he hears. There is a documentary about him on YouTube and in it he translates the sound of a train's engine into musical notes. He has an unbelievable talent for music, and has memorised thousands of popular songs which he can play at any moment. Derek is able to reproduce any piece of music that he hears, and this has earned him the nickname 'The Human iPod.'

Derek was born 14 weeks prematurely, is blind and has severe learning difficulties. However, when his nanny sat him in front of a piano as a diversion, it wasn't long before Derek's amazing gift and passion for music started to emerge. Initially, he taught himself to play, but has since received extensive training. He gave his first concert when he was seven, and now at 30 is embarking on his first tour with a 20 piece orchestra. The current tour is in the UK only, but hopefully he will visit down under in the future.

_________________________________


ARTS ACCESS VICTORIA
ARTS DISABILITY LEADERSHIP INNOVATION

24 Eastern Rd South Melbourne VIC 3205
Voice 03 9699 8299
TTY 03 9699 7637
EASE Bookings 03 9699 8497
Fax 03 9699 8868

http://www.artsaccess.com.au

Arts Access Victoria is supported by Arts Victoria, Australia Council for the Arts and Department of Human Services

Arts Access Victoria News

Hi all, time flies as we pass the halfway point of yet another year. Welcome to the June 2006 edition of the Arts Access Victoria E-News, enjoy!








Way Out West has Vacancies!

Way Out West is a quality visual and performing arts program for adults with an intellectual disability, physical disability or acquired brain injury. It also provides respite for families / carers living in the West or North region of Melbourne, especially those who are elderly or from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Way Out West group members have been involved in a wide range of arts activities including drawing, painting, printmaking, costume design, mask making, puppetry, theatre skills, singing, percussion and dance and recently performed A Sympathetic Ear at the Footscray Community Arts Centre.

In addition to the art activities, an important aspect of the program is providing adults with a disability with the opportunity to meet new people who share similar creative and social interests.

People interested in Way Out West should note the following enrolment requirements:
· be living at home with a family member or volunteer carer
· registered with DHS
· be living in the West or North region of Melbourne
· be over 18 years old

Days & Dates of Project - Held fortnightly on Saturdays
Start & Finish Time - 9:30am - 2:30pm
Location - Overnewton Gatehouse Gallery, Keilor
Participants - Adults with an intellectual disability, physical disability or acquired brain injury living in the West or North region of Melbourne.

Arts Access receives Respite funding from the Department of Human Services, North and West region for Way Out West.

For enquiries, contact:

Michaela Olijnyk
Artistic Project Coordinator
Ph: 03 9699 8299
TTY: 03 9699 7636
Fax: 03 9699 8868

Arts Access Victoria is supported by Arts Victoria, Australia Council for the Arts and Department of Human Services


Other Film Festival launches outreach program

The Other Film Festival, known for screening groundbreaking films about the experience of disability from around the globe, has launched an outreach program of accessible screenings. These presentations have already been delivered at major cultural institutions, local and regional councils, schools and community organisations.

For more information, contact the Festival Director Rick Randall at rrandall@artsaccess.com.au or 0413 667 900.

Website: www.otherfilmfestival.com/



Arts Access Arts Classes … WHAT’S ON

For adults who have a mental health issue living in the Southern Region of Melbourne.

SING - presented in partnership with IMPACT
HEARTSONG … in Frankston is an ongoing singing group that meets on Thursday mornings. Run by Cherie Baxter, the group performs regularly at community events, libraries and in retirement homes. No experience necessary. Performing is not essential if you just want to come and sing!

PAINT - presented in partnership with the Eastern Regions Mental Health Association.
TONAL PAINTING … Di Lockwood has been running painting workshops at The Old Cheese Factory in Berwick on Thursday afternoons. Designed for the beginner through to the more experienced artist, this workshop will lead to a large group exhibition at the Cardinia Cultural Centre later in the year. Taking a break throughout June, this group will resume on July 23rd.

For a look at Di’s work go to: http://www.dilockwood.com/

RELAX WITH ART … Gary Solomon is facilitating painting, mixed media and clay work at Lilypond Community House in Pakenham on Thursday mornings. This group will also be breaking until July 23rd.

For a look at Gary’s work go to: www.gallery112.com.au/index.php?p=2_1

ART & ABOUT … Lindy Macauley and Melissa Lucas are running fabulous painting and mosaic workshops at ERMHA in Dandenong on Friday mornings.

PHOTOGRAPH - presented in partnership with Peninsula Support Services POINT & SHOOT … Jorge de Araujo has just completed a series of photography and technology workshops at Peninsula Support Services in Mornington.

To see what the group developed during this time go to: http://psspointandshoot.blogspot.com/

For a look at Jorge’s work go to http://www.dearaujophoto.com/

CREATE - presented in partnership with Peninsula Support Service.
Reuse, Regenerate, Recycle Take 2 – sculpture made from discarded stuff. This workshop was so successful last time we ran it, we’ve decided to run it again on Friday June 19th, 26th and July 3rd.

All our workshops are run by professional, practicing artists. No previous experience required. Commitment to ongoing classes desirable but not essential. ALL WELCOME!

For more information about any of the above workshops, please contact:

Santha Press
Artistic Project Manager
Arts Access Victoria
Ph: 03 9699 8299
TTY: 03 9699 7636
Fax: 03 9699 8868
http://www.artsaccess.com.au

First Step Out West










Mark Sorbello, Way Out West partcipant / trainer, dressed in his handmade, originally designed paper costume.






Mark was one of 40 people with and without disabilities who attended the Way Out West workshops in “Devising Inclusive Theatre” at the recent First Step Weekend in the Grampians. Attendees came from as far as Adelaide, Wagga Wagga, Horsham, Bendigo and Ballarat as well as the outer Melbourne suburbs to develop their skills in theatremaking.

The Way Out West training team included artists; Katrine Gabb and Lindy Macauley, support worker; Ahmarnya Price and participants; Dragan Mickov, Melissa Caggegi and Mark Sorbello. The WOW team presented 2 x four-hour days of innovative visual and performing arts techniques which they used to create their recent theatre production, “a sympathetic ear”.

Both days culminated in a brief “showing” of the workshops where attendees got to strut their stuff in outstanding performances based on the Greek myths of the Minotaur and Orpheus.

If you are interested in booking Way Out West to present their “Devising Inclusive Theatre Workshop” please contact Jo Cohen at Arts Access (Wed/Thu) on 9699 8299 or jcohen@artsaccess.com.au.

Way Out West is coordinated by Arts Access as a visual and performing arts respite program for people with disabilities. It is funded by Disability Partnerships, DHS North and West Region. For enquiries, contact Michaela Olijnyk at Arts Access (Mon – Fri) on 9699 8299 or molijnyk@artsaccess.com.au.

Arts News

$62.3 million for arts and culture

Source: Australian Government, Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Arts


The Rudd Government has delivered on its commitments and strengthened its support for Australia's arts and cultural sector with an investment of $62.3 million in the 2009-10 Federal Budget.

Arts Minister Peter Garrett today announced new programs to support artists, increase access and promotion of the arts, and maintain support for existing programs.

"This budget recognises the critical role the arts play in nourishing our community and supporting employment particularly during difficult economic times," Mr Garrett said.

"The Government has delivered on a number of election commitments in this budget, including boosting support for Australia's Indigenous artists - a key source of Indigenous employment - and developing opportunities for young and emerging artists to build sustainable careers.

Read the full article here.



Tom the Loneliest review

I had the great pleasure of attending the premiere of No Stings Attached Theatre of Disability's production of Tom the Loneliest. This is an amazing performance; I was captivated through the whole thing. The play centres on two similar people, both called Tom. They could be brothers or housemates, and each thinks the other is crazy. The entire performance is set in Tom's house, where we witness the two Toms watch TV, interact with each other, eat dinner and make phone calls. It is a very engaging play, full of inspiring dialogue and ideas. The music is also excellent! I would encourage everyone to go and see it.











Arts Access Victoria E-News editor Max Rosenbloom with actors Duncan Luke and Julian Crotti.

Left to right: Max Rosenbloom, Duncan Luke, Julian Crotti.


Tom the Loneliest is showing at La Mama Carlton Courthouse Theatre until June 21, see events section for details.


Max Rosenbloom
Arts Access Victoria

Events

Tom gets lonely
Source: PJ Rose, No Strings Attached artistic director






No Strings Attached Theatre of Disability in association with Loose Canon Art Services and Enjoyo-Meals presents Tom the Loneliest; a dark new comedy that confronts isolation, depression, medication, psychosis, domestic violence, addiction and the disempowerment of modern masculinity with a disturbing irreverence.

In a world where mental health issues are reaching epidemic proportions, Tom the Loneliest is a mirror to our time, reflecting wisdoms, observations, stories and habitual coping mechanisms of society’s ‘crazies’. Two men (both named Tom) inhabit a familiar yet strange world. They revisit painful memories. They explore moments between boredom and madness. They speak in languages and move in gestures uniquely their own. They’re never quite sure if something just said is in the room or in their head.

Audiences have labelled Tom the Loneliest as disturbingly intimate, life-affirming and scary. Independent Weekly calls it '...cruelly real with laugh-out-loud moments...'
No Strings Attached is a community-based theatre company of people affected by disability.

WHEN: 16-27 June. Sun/Tue/Wed @ 6.30pm, Thu/Fri/Sat @ 8pm
Premiere - Tuesday June 16th
Signed performances - 21 & 26 June
WHERE: La Mama’s Carlton Courthouse Theatre – 349 Drummond St, Carlton
COST: $25 full price, $12 concession. Bookings: (03) 9347 6142 or bookings@lamama.com.au

For more information, contact No Strings Attached artistic director PJ Rose on 08 8363 5970, 0439 811 200 or pj@nostringsattached.org.au



Disability Services Sustainability Summit – 1 July

Source: Emerson Riley, National Disability Services

All disability service providers are urged to attend a Disability Services Sustainability Summit

WHEN: from 10.30am – 2.00pm on Wednesday 1 July
WHERE: Ibis Hotel - 15-21 Thierry St, Melbourne

NDS is calling a sector meeting in response to the emerging crisis facing disability services across Victoria. The current situation has arisen as a result of:

• Years of under funding for disability services
• No increase in disability unit prices following recent price reviews
• Dramatically reduced income from fundraising and investment
• High levels of unfunded compliance and regulation
• New costs associated with individualising supports and establishing new business systems
• New costs associated with the proposed portable long service leave scheme

It is time for Victorian disability services to take joint action to ensure that specialised disability supports continue to be available to the people who need them.

This meeting will:

• outline the current situation and the emerging crisis
• identify the key issues and their impacts on service provision
• gather information from disability service providers for a sustainability campaign
• explore creative solutions to support sustainability
• identify actions to increase pressure on government to address the sustainability of services for people with a disability

RSVP to Erin Davidson on 03 8341 4300 or erin.davidson@nds.org.au by Friday 19 June. This event is free of charge to members.


Roarhouse Crazy Chix

Source: Marjetka McMahon

The 3rd Annual Roarhouse Crazy Chix Showcase is here again. This year promises more ABRACADABRA as we pull out of our magic bag a serious hurricane of energy from the emerging to the not-so-emerging beauties that will enliven, fascinate and hypnotise all who dare to come and see these girls ROAR, and ROAR they will.

Roarhouse brings you the most diverse array of performers through a dedication to providing a stage for ALL artists including those challenged with mental health issues, marginalised or disadvantaged. Come witness sharp, side splitting comedy, poetic bravery, musical strength, and roller skating frivolity with a double dose of cabaret sauciness, then culminating with Greek/Aussie folk blues Rebetissa- an ageless celebration of womanhood.

The night promises a raffle filled with surprises for early revellers and discounted entrance fee for those who arrive before 8pm. Come celebrate the fine array of Melbourne’s diverse female performers at the Crazy Chix Showcase @ The Espy Basement, proudly supported by the Cultural Development Fund Committee in the City of Port Phillip.

WHEN: 7pm sharp, 24th of June
WHERE: Esplanade Hotel, Basement Bar - 11 The Esplanade, St Kilda
COST: Before 8pm - $5 (with free raffle ticket) After 8pm - $10 full price / $5 concession, $5 raffle tickets

To register your interest in performance gigs, please contact Fi - fi.roarhouse@gmail.com

To register your interest in Volunteer Program OR all other enquiries, please contact Marjetka - marjetka@optusnet.com.au For more information, visit the Roarhouse website via this link.


Wild Summer in June

Source: Club Wild

Club Wild supports the creative expression of people with a disability through music, video and performance, and champions their equal participation in society - in seriously funky style!

Warm up this winter as Club Wild gets hot with our Summer in the City dance party on Friday 19th June.

With Club Wild favourites The Hacketts, amazing acrobatics by The Town Bikes, fun beach themes, limbo competitions and much more, this promises to cure those winter blues. Don’t forget your Hawaiian Shirt!

WHEN: 7pm - 10pm, Friday 19th June
WHERE: Arts House, North Melbourne Town Hall - corner of Errol and Queensberry Streets (Melways 2A J10). Plenty of street parking - tram number 57 from Flinders Street
COST: $15 entry - carers free. Cafe and merchandise available.
Pre-booked tickets get preference at the door.

For information and bookings, contact Club Wild on 9326 9970 or bookings@clubwild.net. Full details at: www.clubwild.net

Opportunities

Braybrook Tool Library - woodwork workshops

Source: Cath Black, Access for All Abilities Coordinator

Places are available on every week day except Monday for people with disabilities to participate in woodwork workshops at Braybrook Community Centre. Times are available on an hourly or sessional basis with half days as follows:

Morning: 9 - 12.00 noon
Afternoon: 12.30 - 3.30pm.

Cost is $50 for half day or $100 for a full day. This includes access to all equipment and some materials such as glues. BYO wood. Contact Neil Dillon on 9334 6630 or 0412 714 445 to discuss further. Happy wood working.


Nominations open for regional Victoria’s only arts awards

Source: Kate Gerritsen, Regional Arts Victoria

Regional Arts Victoria’s RAVE Awards acknowledge the phenomenal work of regional artists, arts workers, organisations and volunteers in creating, delivering and presenting cultural activity in regional Victoria.

Regional Arts Victoria (RAV) is now calling for nominations in the following six categories:

• Contemporary Cultural Development
• Arts and Business Partnership
• Indigenous Arts
• Arts Volunteering
• Regional Touring
• Youth Leadership – includes for the first time in 2009 a $1,000 special cash prize generously supported by the Deloitte Foundation

"The RAVE Awards are a great opportunity to nominate someone who has contributed to excellence in the arts in regional Victoria and who is committed to the provision of the best arts services for regional Australians. These awards are an opportunity to recognise these important cultural crusaders," said 2007 award recipient and former HotHouse Theatre Artistic Manager Charles Parkinson. Previous award recipients include, actress and singer Anne Phelan and the Bell Shakespeare Company.

Nominations close Friday 14 August 2009. The 2009 award winners will be announced at the RAV Symposium in Geelong on Saturday 3 October 2009. Bringing together regional artists and arts workers from all over regional Victoria, the Symposium has the theme Arts in Times of Crisis.

For further information, contact Regional Arts Victoria:
Phone: 03 9644 1800
Email: enquiry@rav.net.au

Guidelines and Nomination Forms can be downloaded from www.rav.net.au.


Call for Entries - Everyone’s a Critic!

Source: Claire Forgie, Portable Film Festival

So, Portable Film Festival wants you to get a little critical. To
celebrate the launch of the Melbourne International Film Festival
2009, Portable is launching the Everyone’s a Critic competition in
association with MIFF!

What you need to do from now till July 6th 2009 is to create a 30
second clip involving the line “Everyone’s a critic.” There are no
genre, format or production limitations- they just have to be your
great ideas put into 30 seconds! Now get critiquing!

For more information; visit www.portablefilmfestival.com

Remember, the deadline is July 6th 2009!

Odd Spot

Disabled pedestrians unite!

Source: News.com.au

Some controversial new traffic regulations have been passed unanimously in Indonesia. The new regulations require disabled pedestrians to wear special signs that can alert other road users to the fact that they are handicapped. Ahmad Muqowam is the person in charge of the committee that developed these regulations, and he claims that they are designed to protect disabled people from having road accidents: "This is a humanistic act. It's for their safety on the streets" [news.com.au].

Muqowam did not specify what the signs should say or where they should be worn, saying only that the government would decide these things at a later date. However, these regulations are only recommendations; there will be no penalty for anyone not wearing a sign. Transport experts have complained that this is a terrible law and that the government "...should focus on providing facilities such as level footpaths and wheelchair ramps rather than requiring people to wear signs" [news.com.au].

I wonder why the Indonesian government has decided to apply these regulations; whether they are a response to road accidents involving disabled pedestrians or if there is another reason. I am interested in what the social effects of this would be. If anyone with a disability is encouraged to wear a sign, then everybody else will know that they are handicapped. I suspect that some people might want to keep that information private. However, in that case, presumably they could just not wear a sign.

It is an interesting idea for a law, and I'll be interested to see how people respond. Institute of Transportation Studies chairman Darmaningtyas made a good point when he questioned the rationality of the law: "It is strange when handicapped people are asked to carry extra burdens and obligations" [news.com.au]

Arts Access Victoria News

Hello everyone, I hope you had an enjoyable month and are managing to stay warm. I can't believe how cold it has become all of a sudden, and it's not even winter yet. At this time of year, it's good to rug up and enjoy some great art.. The Arts Access Victoria E-News for May 2009 will give you some ideas on how to spend your chilly days and nights.




Deaf Can Dance nominated for another award!


Arts Access Victoria is pleased to announce that Deaf can Dance has been nominated for an Australian Dance Award!

This is an extremely prestigious acknowledgment of the work and a great honour to be recognised by the dance community.

The awards will be presented at the Arts Centre on the 7th of June. More information about the 2009 Australian Dance Awards is available on the website via this link.

Congratulations to Deaf Arts Network, Phunktional and the fabulous dancers and musicians!!!



Vodafone World of Difference Program supporting Deaf Can Dance

Sources: Accessible Arts, Vodafone

Deaf Arts Network's Ross Onley-Zerkel has been successful in his application to the Vodafone World of Difference Program. Ross will be spending the next twelve months working for Arts Access Victoria to turn Deaf Can Dance into Australia’s first professional deaf dance company. Ross recently spent some time giving a workshop in Sydney and had the opportunity to meet with surfer Layne Beechley (see here for a photo). Congratulations Ross!

Read the full article about Ross and the World of Difference here.

Arts News

Mary and Max

Mary and Max, the new feature film by Adam Elliot, was released on the 9th of April. It is a simple tale of pen-friendship between two very different people; Mary Dinkle, a chubby lonely eight year old girl living in the suburbs of Melbourne, and Max Horovitz, a 44 year old, severely obese, Jewish man with Asperger’s Syndrome living in the chaos of New York.

This is an amazing film with a great story and intriguing characters. It opened the 2009 Sundance Film Festival and has received very favourable reviews. It is also very impressive when you consider the huge amount of time and effort involved in making a claymation feature film; it took Adam Elliot five years to make this 80-minute masterpiece. Mary and Max has an outstanding cast with such stars as Toni Collete, Eric Bana, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Barry Humphries, and more. People may also recognise the familiar voice of our friend Bernie Clifford, who is the voice of "Garbo One". Bernie used to be the Industry and Audience Development Manager at Arts Access Victoria, and we wish him all the best. Adam Elliot was the patron of the 2008 Other Film Festival and we are pleased to see him achieving such success with this great film!


Enigma - music video

Source: The Mental Health Music Network

Members of the Mental Health Music Network have created and performed Enigma. This a great song and innovative video clip; well worth a look! The lyrics are thoughtful and deal with the problem of the stigma and misunderstanding of mental-health issues. It has a catchy tune and a rocking beat, and gives a great message of promoting understanding in the community.

You can watch it via the website or via youtube to read comments.

Events

Bow WOW! Festival

Source: Leesa Nash, Family Dog Circus

Family Dog Circus presents the Bow WOW! Festival 2009; theatre training in an inclusive learning environment, for youth with and without disabilities. Come, see what we can do together. A range of exciting workshops will be held during the festival on 1-7 June.

WHEN: 1st-7th June
WHERE: Northcote Town Hall - 189 High Street, Northcote

A program with information about workshops is available from the website: http://bowwowfestival.blogspot.com

Bookings are essential as places are limited. Contact Leesa Nash on phone: 0425 717 639, or email: bowwowfestival@hotmail.com



Chronicle

Chronicle is an exhibition of drawings and installation works by Ellen Benson, Alice Parker, Elyss McCleary, and James Riches. Both Ellen Benson and Elyss McCleary are Arts Access Victoria support workers on Way Out West.

WHEN: 29th April-23rd May. Opening hours: Wednesday to Saturday 12pm to 6pm
WHERE: The Library Artspace - 100 Barkly St, North Fitzroy.

For further information, call The Library Artspace on (03) 9482 2113


Spark a fire

Sources: Epilepsy Australia, Creative Sparks

A new website showcasing the artistic talents of people with epilepsy was recently launched. Creative Sparks (link) is an online art exhibition with many amazing artworks from people all over the world who have been diagnosed with epilepsy. The exhibition aims to promote understanding and awareness of epilepsy, and evolved out of a study entitled Sparks of Creativity: The Influence of Epilepsy and Migraines in Art. It is a joint venture of the Epilepsy Foundation of Victoria, St. Vincent’s Health and the University of Melbourne. The Age newspaper recently published an article about art an epilepsy, you can read it via this link.

A collection of this artwork is on display in an exhibition called Creative Sparks: An Art Exhibition for People with Epilepsy.

WHERE: St Vincent's Gallery, Ground Floor, Daly Wing - 35 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy
WHEN: 7th May to 2nd June 2009. Mon - Thursday 9.00am -8.00pm.



Give your God fifty dollars for me

Source: Micheline Lee

...is the title of Micheline Yoke Yean Lee's new exhibition at the Abbotsford Convent. Micheline has worked at Arts Access in the past and was mentored by our own Jane Trengove in the Art of Difference 2009. A brief summary of the exhibition is as follows:

Lee re-assesses facets of family history and her Chinese Malaysian heritage and migration to Australia in a quest to make sense of the "self". She explores the psychic and mythological terrain of the events depicted in her works. Conjured up are ancient curses causing disability in her family, confrontations with ghosts, remembered renderings of the Penang home and the conversion to fundamentalist Christianity on arriving in Australia. The works reflect a fusion of eastern and western influences- traditional Chinese brush painting presented on ceremonial banners are combined with digital imaging, and childlike storytelling is infused with contemporary Western interrogation and black humour.

WHEN: 29th April - 17th May. Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 5pm
WHERE: C3 Contemporary Art Space, Abbotsford Convent - 1 St Helliers St, Abbotsford.

For further information, email: c3@abbotsfordconvent.com.au or visit the website: www.abbotsfordconvent.com.au



Roarhouse

Source: Marjetka McMahon

Roarhouse presents live showcases of music, performance art and spoken word for your enjoyment. The gigs coming up soon are:

WHEN: Thursday 14th of May @ 7pm
WHERE: 303 - 303 High Street, Northcote
Check the website soon for the line-up.

WHEN: Wednesday 27th of May @ 7pm
WHERE: Esplanade Hotel, Basement Bar - 11 The Esplanade, St Kilda
Performer slots available: please contact – fi.roarhouse@gmail.com

Roarhouse is a non-profit, vibrant, socially inclusive live showcase of music, spoken word, poetry and performance arts event presented fortnightly at various venues. Roarhouse, driven by artists and volunteers, supports performance opportunities for our entire community of artists, including those marginalised, disadvantaged and/ or challenged with mental health issues.

To register your interest in the Volunteer Program and/or any other enquiries please contact Marjetka at marjetka@optusnet.com.au

Opportunities

Connected 09

Source: Chris Lawrence, State Trustees

connected09 is an art exhibition and art prize open to Victorians with a disability or an experience of mental illness. The connected09 exhibition and Art Prize is open to artists creating works in the following disciplines: painting, drawing, ceramics, sculpture, digital media, photography, printmaking and poetry.

All work submitted for entry must have been produced since July 2008 and must be the original work of the artist. Emerging artists from community projects, supported residential services, workplace employment and training initiatives, as well as independent artists and studios are encouraged to submit their work to be considered for the exhibition.




How To Go Crazy Without Crazy
Elroy Hendricks







The winners of the connected09 prizes will be announced at the exhibition opening on 31 July. The connected exhibition is in its seventh year and will award prizes to the value of $750, $500, $250 and the inaugural Allan Merigan ‘People’s choice’ award.

A connected09 exhibition entry form can be accessed at: www.statetrustees.com.au

Exhibition
WHEN: 31 July until 13 August
WHERE: BlackBox theatre, Victorian Arts Centre - 100 St Kilda Road.



Hume City Council Best Practice Seminars 2009

Source: Andrew Tranter, Hume City Council

Perspectives upon what is good access for people with disabilities

The aims and objectives of the seminars are to

• Stimulate ideas and discussion as a result of exposure to a range of Best Practice models that are successfully increasing participation in all spheres of activity across the community

• Increase public awareness of, understanding of and respect for people with disabilities

• Stimulate participation in events by a broad cross section of the community

Seminar 1 Accessible Communication for organisations

Vision Australia is Australia’s leading service provider for individuals who experience blindness or low vision. This seminar is targeted at large and small organisations to discuss ways of making business practice more accessible, through accessible environments, information solutions, web accessibility, accessible format materials, promotion and distribution.

WHEN: Tuesday 16 June, 10 am – 12pm
WHERE: Seminar Room 4


Seminar 2 The Music Network for Mental Health

The Music Network for Mental Health creates opportunities for people living with mental health issues to make friends, create music and performances. The annual Mad Hatters Festival will be presented at Federation Square this year to open Mental Health Week, kicking off with the BiPolar Bears band playing on the back of a truck down Swanston Street to recreate the famous AC/DC film clip.

Musician Heidi Everett will perform live at this seminar.

WHEN: Wednesday 5 August, 12pm – 2pm
WHERE: Seminar Room 4


Seminar 3 Wheelchair Rugby

Wheelchair Rugby - sometimes referred to as Murderball for its fast pace and high level of contact - is possibly one of the toughest sports out there. Members of Australia’s Olympic Silver Medal Team will introduce you to the sport and discuss their achievements and prospects for a Gold Medal at the London Paralympics in 2012.

WHEN: Wednesday 14 October, 12pm – 1.30pm
WHERE: Seminar Room 4


Seminar 4 The Other Film Festival

Australias only disability film festival continues to bring ground-breaking films from around the world to Melbourne audiences. The festival continues to provide exemplary access to the cinema for everyone

This seminar will include a screening of short films and presentations by the Director of the festival Rick Randall and film maker Sarah Tracton.

WHEN: Wednesday 2 December, 12pm – 2pm
WHERE: Seminar Room 5


All Seminars are Free to attend

Bookings essential. Contact Andrew Tranter, Metro Access Project Officer, Hume City Council on 9205 2200 or andrewtr@hume.vic.gov.au.




Box Hill Community Arts Centre 2009 Biennial Art Competition

Source: Kree Harrison, City of Whitehorse

'...home...'

This competition, for both 2D and 3D artwork is advertised nationally, with 40 - 50 short listed entries to be exhibited at BHCAC from the 18 - 30 August The winner receives a $3000 cash prize and a two-week exhibition at BHCAC in 2010. The theme this year has been designed to attract attention and stimulate discussion of what 'home' means to the diverse community of Australia in an ever-changing cultural, economic and political climate. Previous winners have experienced great benefits to their careers and enhanced coverage.

The judging panel consists of 5 judges from the art industry, where approximately 50 works will be selected to be included in the exhibition. The Judging Criteria is based on three areas:

1. Response to the theme of 'home'
2. Creativity of expression
3. Application of technique


Entry forms and conditions can be downloaded as PDFs from their website at: http://www.bhcac.com.au/Page/Page.asp?Page_Id=177. Entries close 5pm on Friday June 26, 2009.

For any further information, phone 9895 8811 or visit the BHCAC website at http://www.bhcac.com.au/



Sticky

Source: Cathy Horsley, City of Port Phillip

A family member and their child, aged 9 to 12 years, are invited to join rawcus ensemble members - artistic director, Kate Sulan, visual artist Emily Barrie and musician Zoe Barry - for an exciting theatre workshop program, culminating in a small scale performance held in Northcote Town Hall Theatre on Saturday 18 July.

WHEN: Every Saturday from 13 June to 18 July 2009, 10am to 3pm
WHERE: Northcote Town Hall, 189 High Street, Northcote
COST: Free. Morning tea will be provided.

For bookings and enquiries, contact Cathy Horsley at the City of Port Phillip:
Phone: 9209 6530
Mobile: 0409 047 849
Email: chorsley@portphillip.vic.gov.au

rawcus is an ensemble of performers with and without disabilities. rawcus draws on dance, theatre and visual arts disciplines.



Roarhouse Schizophrenia Week show

Source: Marjetka McMahon


Roarhouse are looking for performers who would like to support Schizophrenia Awareness Week- May 17 - 23. Schizophrenia Awareness Week is a very good pal of Roarhouse and putting together a line-up of Melbourne bands to put on a show at Bar 303 in Northcote on Weds 20th May.

Contact Heidi at skybeanz@gmail.com ASAP if you are interested in performing.



Big West Opportunities

Source: Big West

From 20–29 November 2009, the west’s premier exponent of art in unlikely places, Big West Festival, is set to take over the streets, river banks, rooftops, industrial sprawl and iconic locations of Footscray. Interested in becoming involved? Then keep reading…

JOB VACANCIES
There are currently two job vacancies in the Big West Festival. Applications for both positions close Friday 22 May 2009.

Marketing Co-ordinator
Big West is calling for a part-time Marketing Co-ordinator with sound experience in the development, roll-out and implementation of comprehensive marketing campaigns for festivals or large scale events. This role is most suited to individuals with a background in marketing to culturally diverse and multi-lingual communities, and an understanding of community-based, contemporary arts events.

Production Manager
Big West is seeking a part-time Production Manager with extensive experience in event management on large-scale events. We are looking for a dynamic person capable of delivering in all areas of Production and Event Management within a Festival environment; including risk assessment, ERPs, local government liaison and managing budgets.

Position descriptions and application details for both roles can be found at: www.bigwest.com.au/about/jobopp.htm. For more information, please contact Big West General Manager Narelle Sullivan at: narelle@bigwest.com.au or on 9689 4880.

ARTIST OPPORTUNITIES
Calling all artists…
Big West invites artists living or working in the west to send in an expression of interest to the Festival Director for projects to be considered for its forthcoming 2009 festival. Taking the central theme of Home is Where the Art is… Big West is looking for projects that take place in non-traditional spaces and that speak to this central theme. It may be a performance, exhibition, multimedia work or something that defies classification.

For an application form, please visit www.bigwest.com.au/artist_info.htm. If you would like to speak with Festival Director Karen Hadfield prior to submitting your EOI please call 9689 4880 or email karen@bigwest.com.au. Applications close Friday 31 July 2009.



Rag Theatre Open Workshops 2009

Source: Cathy Horsley, Access Arts Development Officer

FREE, inclusive, fun and friendly. This 8 week series of theatre workshops will be run by Director Scott Gooding and will include improvisation acting and theatre games. Commencing Wednesday 6th May and continuing for 8 weeks. RAG Theatre workshops are open to anyone with an interest in theatre and an experience of mental illness.

WHEN: From Wednesday 6th May, 2pm – 4.30pm
WHERE: South Melbourne Community Centre - Corner of Park Street and Ferrars Place, South Melbourne
COST: Free

For enquiries, contact Cathy Horsley at the City of Port Phillip:
Phone: 9209 6530
Mobile: 0409 047 849
Email: chorsley@portphillip.vic.gov.au

Odd Spot

Boyle's got talent

Many of you might have heard about Susan Boyle; the current sensation from Britain's Got Talent. When she appeared on the talent show, nobody would have imagined the magic that was about to take place. Susan was born with a mild form of brain damage and was diagnosed as having learning difficulties. The audience - and probably the judges - took one look at the 47-year-old and thought they knew what she would be like, but they were in for a big surprise.

I watched her performance and got chills, I even cried. She is an amazing singer, but the fact that she smashed expectations and perception makes it even more powerful. Millions of people have been amazed by her sheer brilliance. One of the judges summed it up beautifully: "I am so thrilled because I know that everybody was against you. I honestly think that we were all being very cynical and I think that's the biggest wake-up call ever."

Watch the video via this link.