Keeping the Dream Alive

​​Social media and a timely funding boost will help Colac’s art organisation maintain momentum engaging its members despite dealing with the challenges of a pandemic lockdown.
The Colac Makers’ Space committee will receive $9000 in funding which they will use in part for a community art project combining online and hands-on learning.
The Victorian Government Sustaining Creative Workers grant through Regional Arts Victoria will also go towards buying studio equipment and art materials for the space.
The committee responded to a unique COVID-19 funding opportunity to bring forward its long-term plan to buy a printing press and printmaking materials to keep their members actively engaged and connected during lockdown. The purchase also addresses a top learning priority identified in a survey of group’s members.
Print maker and Makers’ Space committee member Jenny Grenfell said we were keen to maintain the arts activity momentum happening at the space prior to the COVID-19 lockdown.
She said they planned to distribute printmaking kits including tools and materials to group members during social distancing, so they can experiment and develop their skills.
“We’ll also be recommending online resources and demonstrating linocut, drypoint etching, collagraphs, monotype and intaglio techniques. Printing plates will be prepared at home, or at the Makers’ Space in accordance with COVID-19 restrictions, and with works in progress shared online for social connection, problem solving and feedback.
“We’ll be ready to print editions and exhibit our artwork when we’re able to return to the community arts space. We’ll also have the new printing press and equipment for future community art projects,” she said.