The community will play a lead role in the Surf Coast Arts Trail in more ways than one this year, with SCAS Inc unveiled as the co-producer of the 2022 event.
The not-for-profit organisation – which also manages Hoop Gallery – will pilot a new delivery model supporting Surf Coast Shire Council to stage the significant event, which showcases the work of more than 200 local artists. Mayor Libby Stapleton said the growth of the trail and the desire to empower community groups led to the decision to seek a co-producer.
“We’re delighted to work with SCAS Inc to pilot a delivery model for the Surf Coast Arts Trail 10th Anniversary – Take 2,” she said.
“Being a co-producer of the event is going to provide invaluable skills development and employment opportunities for local arts workers.
“We love when the community takes ownership of events, and this is exactly what the pilot program hopes to achieve. It also aligns perfectly with our strategy to foster an environment where people with clever and creative ideas can make a difference in their community.”
SCAS Inc President Sally Groom said the organisation was pleased to be co-producer.
“SCAS Inc. is very excited to co-produce the 2022 Surf Coast Arts Trail with Surf Coast Shire Council,” she said. “It is fitting that on the 10th Anniversary of the Arts Trail, Council works with a community run organisation to co-produce the event.”
One of the first tasks for the newly-appointed co-producer is coordinating a 2022 Surf Coast Arts Trail preview exhibition. The exhibition – scheduled for June – will offer a glimpse into the variety of work people can expect on this year’s Trail, to be held 6 and 7 August.
“We know that the 2022 event will be pivotal in supporting local artists and creatives to recover from the impacts of COVID-19,” Cr Stapleton said. “To be able to open their studios and creative venues to thousands of visitors – from locals to internationals – is going to be extra special.”
Artist registrations for the event are open until Saturday 30 April via surfcoast.vic.gov.au/artstrail.
