Press Release issued 11 july 2005

An official launch will be held this weekend at Maitland Regional Gallery, following Maitland’s affirmation as ‘City of the Arts’ for 2005-2007.

A major grant initiative of the NSW Ministry for Arts, headed by NSW Premier Bob Carr, the ‘City of the Arts’ project will inject $300,000 funding for local cultural projects into the city over the next two years. According to Mayor of Maitland, Cr Peter Blackmore, the award is significant on many levels. “Every city outside the Sydney metropolitan region was eligible to apply,” he stated. “To be the chosen recipient of City of the Arts status is evidence of recognition at the highest level of our City’s diverse potential in the arts arena. Maitland is experiencing a true cultural renaissance, and this program will further cement the establishment and success of this significant growth.”

The ‘City of the Arts’ status is designed to fast-track the development of arts projects and facilities, enhance opportunities for local artists and to increase participation in a wide range of cultural and heritage events. It is the largest single grant-funding program available to arts organisations in our state.

Maitland City Council’s tender for City of the Arts comprised a series of 10 cornerstone projects, based on the promotion of the city’s heritage, buildings and precincts.

“Not only will this bring a whole new audience to Maitland but will also mean jobs for arts workers throughout the region,” said Cr. Blackmore.

The launch will complement the ‘Madhatters Tea Party’ opening on Saturday 16th July that will be attended by Art Dealer Rex Irwin, Mayor Blackmore and Member for Maitland John Price.

The launch marks the commencement of Maitland’s term as City of the Arts, which will cease in December 2007.
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The NSW Government set up the City of the Arts program in 1995. Every two years a new regional centre is awarded the title. Previous Cities of the Arts have been: The Blue Mountains (1995-97); Broken Hill (1997-99); Armidale-Dumaresq (1999-2001); Hastings (2001-2003); and The Tweed (2003-05).

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