Agenda of Shoalhaven Arts Board - Wednesday, 9 November 2022

Minutes of the Shoalhaven Arts Board

Meeting Date: Wednesday, 17 August 2022

Location: Jervis Bay Meeting Room, City Administrative Centre, Bridge Road, Nowra

Time: 4:04pm

The following members were present:

Clr Tonia Gray

Clr John Kotlash (remotely) – left meeting at 5:30pm

Clr Moo D'Ath (remotely)

Ms Jenny Thompson (remotely)

Mr Frank Howarth

Dr Lynda Kelly (remotely)

Mr Stephen Buzacott

Ms Bonnie Porter-Greene (remotely)

Ms Kate Dezarnaulds (remotely)

Others Present:

Jane Lewis – Director – City Lifestyles

Bronwyn Coulston - Manager – Arts & Culture

Sarah Taylor – Manager – Shoalhaven Libraries

Karen Patterson - Manager - Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre

Brooke Aldous – Governance Coordinator

AB22.42 Election of Chairperson for Today's Meeting

Bronwyn Coulston – Manager – Arts & Culture assumed the Chair and asked the members present if there were any nominations for the role of Chairperson in the absence of the elected Shoalhaven Arts Board Chairperson, Christine Dunstan.

Mr Frank Howarth nominated Mr Stephen Buzacott to act as Chairperson for today’s meeting.

Mr Stephen Buzacott accepted the nomination.

There were no further nominations received.

The Arts Board agreed the election process was conducted fairly and reasonably.

Bronwyn Coulston – Manager – Arts & Culture - declared Mr Stephen Buzacott as Acting Chairperson.

RESOLVED (By consent)

That the Shoalhaven Arts Board elect Mr Stephen Buzacott to act as Chairperson for today’s meeting in the absence of the elected Shoalhaven Arts Board Chairperson, Christine Dunstan.

CARRIED

Apologies / Leave of Absence

Apologies were received from Ms Christine Dunstan, Mr Drew Longbottom, Clr Ell and Clr White.

Confirmation of the Minutes

RESOLVED (Clr Gray / Frank Howarth)

That the Minutes of the Shoalhaven Arts Board held on 18 May 2022 be confirmed.

CARRIED

Confirmation of the Minutes

RESOLVED (Stephen Buzacott / Jenny Thompson)

That the Minutes of the Shoalhaven Arts Board held on 24 June 2022 be confirmed.

CARRIED

Declarations of Interest

Nil.

AB22.43 Clarification - External Members Report

The members of the Shoalhaven Arts Board requested feedback from Council staff in relation to the External Members Reports and in particular, reports that were declined for inclusion in the business paper from the Chairperson.

Jane Lewis - Director City Lifestyles and Brooke Aldous – Governance Coordinator advised the following:

· In relation to the report requesting signage for the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre, this is considered an operational matter and will therefore progress through the normal Council channels.

· In relation to the Chairperson’s Update Report, they advised that there were some concerns around the appropriateness of the report and the language contained within it. Members were reminded of the induction provided at their initial meeting earlier this year and in particular the Code of Conduct slides and the External Member Reports Process Slide.

· Under the Shoalhaven Arts Board Terms of Reference (TOR) there is no requirement to have a Chairperson’s Report, and it is not part of the format used for Council’s Advisory Committees or Boards.

· It was further clarified that any external reports have to be considered within the TOR of the Board.

Reports

AB22.33 Shoalhaven Libraries - Update

HPERM Ref: D22/280373

Sarah Taylor, Manager – Shoalhaven Libraries provided an update on the Sanctuary Point Library:

· There are three public art opportunities being sunshades, a freestanding sculpture and lighting at the entrance of the Library.

· An Expression of Interest has been undertaken and 13 applications were received.

· The Art Selection Panel met on Friday, 12 August and nine artists (3 artists per public art opportunity) have now been selected and notified.

· The artists are now developing their concepts and will present the concepts to the Art Selection Panel in 5 weeks’ time.

· Each of the artists will be working with the same production company to develop concepts over next 5 weeks.

· Another panel session will be held to choose a successful artist for each of the public art opportunities.

· The Art Selection Panel is made up of the landscape architect, the architects, Danielle Robson from SODA Arts (who is the art consultant running the program), some members of Indigenous Working Group, Sharlene Cruikshank from the Aboriginal Advisory Committee and Bronwyn Coulston.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Arts Board receive the Shoalhaven Libraries Update report for information.

RESOLVED (Clr Gray / Frank Howarth)

That the Shoalhaven Arts Board receive the Shoalhaven Libraries Update report for information.

CARRIED

AB22.34 Shoalhaven Regional Gallery- Update- May, June, July 2022

HPERM Ref: D22/303012

Bronwyn Coulston – Manager Arts & Culture provided an update on the Shoalhaven Regional Gallery:

· The Gallery has been busy with fantastic exhibitions and public programs.

· Current exhibitions are getting great feedback and are open for another week.

· The new exhibitions show off the modular walls which were funded through the State Government “Creative Capital” Grant.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Arts Board receive the Regional Gallery report for information.

RESOLVED (Jenny Thompson / Bonnie Porter-Green)

That the Shoalhaven Arts Board receive the Regional Gallery report for information.

CARRIED

AB22.35 Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre Update

HPERM Ref: D22/307832

Karen Patterson – Manager Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre provided an update:

· Response to the “Arty Farty Party” was fantastic.

· The highest response in terms of cultural impact was received for the Sydney Symphony Orchestra season.

· Sell out shows for both the Lior and the Grigoryan Brothers.

· The biggest emotional response has come from THEM, a production about people living in a war zone considering whether they should become refugees. The production was impactful for the high school audience as well as other attendees.

· The size of the sample of data collection from the Culture Counts survey responses would be useful for inclusion in future reports.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Shoalhaven Arts Board receives the report for information.

RESOLVED (Lynda Kelly / Clr Kotlash)

That Shoalhaven Arts Board receives the report for information.

CARRIED

AB22.36 Council Policy Revisions - South Coast Cooperative Libraries Collection Development Policy	HPERM Ref: D22/306943
Sarah Taylor – Manager Shoalhaven Libraries provided some background on this Item and advised that the aim of the Policy Review is to produce a more functional and simplified document to give guidance for purchasing.
Recommendation That Council adopt the revisions of the South Coast Cooperative Libraries Collection Development Policy.
RECOMMENDATION (Lynda Kelly / Clr Kotlash) That Council adopt the revisions of the South Coast Cooperative Libraries Collection Development Policy. CARRIED

AB22.37 Shoalhaven Arts Board Grants Program 2022/23

HPERM Ref: D22/320228

Karen Patterson – Manager Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre advised that the revoting of the $28,000 which is linked to milestone claims for successful grantees who haven’t completed their work will be reported to Council in September for consideration and adoption.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Arts Board Grants Program in 2022/23 be offered with two separate streams for applications.

1. Applicants under the ‘Sense of Place’ stream will be able to apply for amounts up to $10,000. Successful applicants must commit to a public outcome as part of their project plan.

2. Applications under the ‘Professional Development’ stream will be able to apply for amounts up to $3,000.

3. One ‘Sense of Place’ grant must be awarded with the funding; any remaining funding can be allocated to Professional Development grants or Sense of Place grants based on the applicants’ capacity to meet the criteria.

4. The cost for developing and delivering a marketing and communications strategy to promote and announce the grant program will be taken from the Arts Board Grants budget. The associated expense will be up to $1,000.

RESOLVED (Jenny Thompson / Clr Kotlash)

That the Shoalhaven Arts Board Grants Program in 2022/23 be offered with two separate streams for applications.

1. Applicants under the ‘Sense of Place’ stream will be able to apply for amounts up to $10,000. Successful applicants must commit to a public outcome as part of their project plan.

2. Applications under the ‘Professional Development’ stream will be able to apply for amounts up to $3,000.

CARRIED

AB22.38 The Anti-Nuclear Family Creative Development

HPERM Ref: D22/321233

Karen Patterson – Manager Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre provided an update:

· Julian Louis (Director) has expressed an interest in seeing the project through to a full production.

· The creative development was well received and community feedback was very strong.

· The future of the project will be almost entirely dependent on grant funding and philanthropy.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Shoalhaven Arts Board receives the report for information.

RESOLVED (Clr Gray / Jenny Thompson)

That Shoalhaven Arts Board receives the report for information.

CARRIED

AB22.39 Subcommittee Membership, Working Groups, Portfolios and Panel of Peers - vacancies

HPERM Ref: D22/323132

Clr Gray requested that Professor Amanda Lawson, former Dean of Creative Arts at Wollongong University be invited to apply for vacancies on the Shoalhaven Arts Board or sub-groups when opportunities become available.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the following subcommittees and working groups be established with the membership as detailed [names to be filled in at meeting]

1. Art Acquisition and Collection Subcommittee

a. Chair of the Shoalhaven Arts Board

b. Manager – Arts and Culture or nominated representative

c. Shoalhaven Arts Board member - Stephen Buzacott

d. Shoalhaven Arts Board member [name to be filled in at meeting]

e. Shoalhaven Arts Board member – Clr Moo D’Ath

f. Invited Arts Professional – Boe-Lin Bastian

g. Invited Arts Professional

2. Arts Board Grants Working Group

a. Shoalhaven Arts Board member - Christine Dunstan

b. Shoalhaven Arts Board member - Jenny Thompson

c. Shoalhaven Arts Board member [name to be filled in at meeting]

d. Appropriate Council officer from the Cultural sector

e. Invited Art Professional

3. Art Collection Strategic Planning Working Group

a. Chair of the Shoalhaven Arts Board

b. Manager – Arts and Culture or nominated representative

c. Shoalhaven Arts Board member [name to be filled in at meeting]

d. Shoalhaven Arts Board member – Stephen Buzacott

d. Shoalhaven Arts Board member Clr Moo D’Ath

e. Invited Arts Professional - Boe-Lin Bastian

f. Invited Arts Professional - Aboriginal

RESOLVED (Stephen Buzacott / Clr Kotlash)

That the following subcommittees and working groups be established with the membership as detailed:

1. Art Acquisition and Collection Subcommittee

a. Chair of the Shoalhaven Arts Board

b. Manager – Arts and Culture or nominated representative

c. Shoalhaven Arts Board member - Stephen Buzacott

d. Shoalhaven Arts Board member – Bonnie Porter-Green

e. Shoalhaven Arts Board member – Clr Moo D’Ath

f. Invited Arts Professional – Boe-Lin Bastian

g. Invited Arts Professional

2. Arts Board Grants Working Group

a. Shoalhaven Arts Board member - Christine Dunstan

b. Shoalhaven Arts Board member - Jenny Thompson

c. Shoalhaven Arts Board member - Kate Dezarnaulds

d. Appropriate Council officer from the Cultural sector

e. Invited Art Professional

3. Art Collection Strategic Planning Working Group

a. Chair of the Shoalhaven Arts Board

b. Manager – Arts and Culture or nominated representative

c. Shoalhaven Arts Board member - Frank Howarth

d. Shoalhaven Arts Board member – Stephen Buzacott

e. Shoalhaven Arts Board member Clr Moo D’Ath

f. Invited Arts Professional -– Boe-Lin Bastian

g. Invited Arts Professional – Aboriginal

CARRIED

AB22.40 Management of the Dingle Hughes Bequest - Acquisitions and Archives

HPERM Ref: D22/325409

Bronwyn Coulston – Manager Arts & Culture will be researching and seeking further advice regarding the storage requirements and cost implications in acquiring the collection and will report back to the Shoalhaven Arts Board early in 2023.

Recommendation

That Council advises Max Dingle OAM:

1. Of the intention to accept the works listed in Table A (Attachment 1) into the City Art Collection on enactment of the Deed of Gift

2. That they are not intending to acquire the works listed in Table B (Attachment 1)

3. Of the intention to accept the entirety of the archival collection, including the artworks listed in Table C (Attachment 1) as part of the Deed of Gift.

RECOMMENDATION (Frank Howarth / By consent)

That Council advises Max Dingle OAM:

1. Of the intention to accept the works listed in Table A (Attachment 1) into the City Art Collection on enactment of the Deed of Gift

2. That they are not intending to acquire the works listed in Table B (Attachment 1)

3. Of the intention to accept the entirety of the archival collection, including the artworks listed in Table C (Attachment 1) as part of the Deed of Gift.

4. Acknowledge and thank the Council staff involved in this process.

CARRIED

AB22.41 Shoalhaven City Art Collection - Acquisitions

HPERM Ref: D22/331326

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the three works offered to the City Art Collection by local artist Mike Gilmore are not acquired.

RESOLVED (Stephen Buzacott / Bonnie Porter-Green)

That the three works offered to the City Art Collection by local artist Mike Gilmore are not acquired.

CARRIED

GENERAL BUSINESS

Update on Foundation:

Bronwyn Coulston – Manager Arts & Culture advised:

· The request for Quotations are about to be signed off and emails to be sent to identified parties who have the knowledge and skill set to undertake the work to seek a fee proposal.

· Seeking a consultant and/or business to undertake all the work required to establish the Foundation including:

o briefing a legal firm to establish a Constitution

o required legal registrations for taxation purposes – e.g. deductible gift, not for profit entity registrations

o Developing the Foundation Board

o Interviewing potential members

o Writing Position Descriptions

o Advertising

o Securing a venue

o Setting up bank accounts

o Marketing campaign

· It is hoped to have the Consultant / Specialist appointed by the end of September with the aim of the Consultant stepping away and the Foundation working independently by the end of the 2022/2023 financial year, based on the advice provided by the Consultant and progress.

Other:

Jane Lewis – Director City Lifestyles advised that the SEC signage issue has been identified as an action to be investigated and is included in The Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre’s Strategic Plan.

Sarah Taylor – Manager Shoalhaven Libraries advised that she has been working with web designers to have Shoalhaven become part of the online Weave Artists Directory for visual and performing artists. Once this is finalised, the information will be forwarded to SAB members so that it can be promoted.

Note: Clr Kotlash left meeting at 5:30pm.

There being no further business, the meeting concluded, the time being 5:34pm.

Mr Stephen Buzacott

ACTING CHAIRPERSON

Shoalhaven Arts Board – Wednesday 09 November 2022

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AB22.45 Notification of Council Resolution - Shoalhaven Arts Board Re-establishment

HPERM Ref: D22/437138

Department: Business Assurance & Risk

Approver: Jane Lewis, Director - City Lifestyles

Reason for Report

Advise of Council’s resolution in relation to the new members and re-establishment of the Shoalhaven Arts Board.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Arts Board receive the Notification of Council Resolution – Shoalhaven Arts Board Re-establishment report for information.

Options

1. As recommended.

Implications: The membership structure as resolved by Council is adopted for the period to 30 September 2023.

2. Propose a different membership arrangement.

Implications: Should the Shoalhaven Arts Board wish to make an alternative recommendation in relation to membership, this would need to be reported to Council for consideration/endorsement.

Background

Each year, Council reaffirms all its Committees for the next 12 months - Council has the option to: reaffirm its Committees; make any change to the membership, purpose, delegation, quorum, and the number of meetings required for those Committees; or disband Committees.

This report is provided to inform the Group members of the resolution of the Council. Should the Group wish to make any changes to the above, a recommendation to Council will be required to that effect.

At the Ordinary meeting on 26 September 2022 Council resolved as follows:

CL22.490 Shoalhaven Arts Board

RESOLVED (Clr Ell / Clr White) MIN22.688

That Council continue the operation of Shoalhaven Arts Board for the period to September 2023 as outlined below.

Meetings per year – Four (4) per year

Commencement time – 4.00pm

Quorum – Majority of the members – at least half plus one (1) member

Terms of Reference: POL19/45 (2123E)

Amended: 20 September 2019

Purpose:

a) To contribute to and develop strategy and policy both for the Shoalhaven City Council as well as in alignment with the Region.

b) To develop and implement policy, planning and vision for the broad arts within existing resources and use a co-opted panel of peers for professional advice. They include:

· Visual Arts

· Heritage and Museum Sector

· Literature

· Performing Arts

c) Advocate and maintain specific arts related portfolios.

d) Advocate and promote Board recommendations.

Delegations:

· Act within adopted budgets aligning with Council’s strategic plans and document, and make recommendations on the arts to Council

· Appoint suitable representatives to fill casual vacancies on a set term basis

· Inform and recommend policy for arts related funding programs, and where required by Council, vote on related matters

· Establish a peer panel of professionals, experts and practitioners across art forms, heritage and cultural platforms to be co-opted as needed for input and advice to the Shoalhaven Arts Board

· Establish a Shoalhaven Arts Foundation:

o To support the development and enrichment of broad arts across the Shoalhaven including visual, heritage, literature & performing arts

o To ensure that the Foundation in its governance, membership and charter are independent/ and at arms-length from Council yet works in concert with the Shoalhaven Arts Board, Council and the community needs

o To fundraise and develop a sustainable principal investment to generate ongoing grant funds

Relevant staff will work collaboratively with the Shoalhaven Arts Board to:

· Develop and implement activities to achieve objectives in line with the Shoalhaven Arts Board recommendations, the Council’s policies and corporate plan

Chairperson – Appointed by the Board

2022-2023 Councillor/ Staff Membership

Clr Gray (Ward 1)

Clr Kotlash (Ward 2)

Clr D’Ath (Ward 3)

Clr White - Alternate

Clr Ell – Alternate

Note: Any non-voting Councillor in attendance at any of the above Committees may act as an alternate voting member in circumstances where achievement of a quorum is required.

Community / Organisational Representatives

Eight (8) Community representatives (includes one (1) designated Aboriginal Local Member position, nominated by the Aboriginal Advisory Committee)

One (1) representative of the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group (to be replaced by a representative from the Shoalhaven Economic Growth & Advocacy Group)

CARRIED

Policy Implications

In accordance with the new resolution, any non-voting Councillor in attendance at the Shoalhaven Arts Board meetings may act as an alternate voting member in circumstances where achievement of a quorum is required.

The Chairperson for the Shoalhaven Arts Board is appointed by the Board, the Shoalhaven Arts Board resolved that:

Christine Dunstan be appointed as Chairperson of the Shoalhaven Arts Board for the two-year term to April 2024.

Therefore, no further resolution is required at this time in relation to a Chairperson.

Meeting Date:		18/05/2022	Item No:	AB22.30	Officer:	Coulston, Bronwyn	Completed:
Title:	To be Scheduled - Workshop - Induction of New Members / Strategic Plan Review
RESOLVED (By consent) That the Shoalhaven Arts Board: 1. Schedule an informal meeting / workshop to be held in June or July to discuss the review of Strategic Plan. 2. Following Council’s final endorsement, extend an invitation to the newly appointed members to attend the abovementioned informal meeting / workshop. 3. Invite Council’s Governance Coordinator to induct the newly appointed members to the Shoalhaven Arts Board as part of the meeting / workshop CARRIED					Notes:
					02 Jun 2022 3:36pm Hollier, Leah Parts 1 & 2 Bronwyn Coulston, Part 3 - Sarah Taylor 08 Aug 2022 10:56am Coulston, Bronwyn Part 1 - Board members met via online meeting to discuss Strategic Plan. Following that meeting, the Chair of the Arts Board met with the Director, City Lifestyles and an alternate approach was advised. August arts board report will outline that approach and how it provides strategic direction for the Arts Board, Part 2 - as per above - the strategic planning sessions will no longer be going ahead. 29 Oct 2022 11:50am Coulston, Bronwyn A report to the November Arts Board meeting outlines the alternate approach for the Board.

Meeting Date:		18/05/2022	Item No:	AB22.30	Officer:	Taylor, Sarah	Completed:
Title:	To be Scheduled - Workshop - Induction of New Members / Strategic Plan Review
RESOLVED (By consent) That the Shoalhaven Arts Board: 1. Schedule an informal meeting / workshop to be held in June or July to discuss the review of Strategic Plan. 2. Following Council’s final endorsement, extend an invitation to the newly appointed members to attend the abovementioned informal meeting / workshop. 3. Invite Council’s Governance Coordinator to induct the newly appointed members to the Shoalhaven Arts Board as part of the meeting / workshop CARRIED					Notes:
					02 Jun 2022 3:37pm Hollier, Leah Parts 1 & 2 Bronwyn Coulston, Part 3 - Sarah Taylor 07 Aug 2022 11:05am Taylor, Sarah Part 3 completed - Arts Board Induction completed on 21 June 2022.

Meeting Date:		17/08/2022	Item No:	AB22.37	Officer:	Patterson, Karen	Completed:
Title:	Shoalhaven Arts Board Grants Program 2022/23 - Sense of Place / Professional Development - Streams
RESOLVED (Jenny Thompson / Clr Kotlash) That the Shoalhaven Arts Board Grants Program in 2022/23 be offered with two separate streams for applications. 1. Applicants under the ‘Sense of Place’ stream will be able to apply for amounts up to $10,000. Successful applicants must commit to a public outcome as part of their project plan. 2. Applications under the ‘Professional Development’ stream will be able to apply for amounts up to $3,000. 3. One ‘Sense of Place’ grant must be awarded with the funding; any remaining funding can be allocated to Professional Development grants or Sense of Place grants based on the applicants’ capacity to meet the criteria. 4. The cost for developing and delivering a marketing and communications strategy to promote and announce the grant program will be taken from the Arts Board Grants budget. The associated expense will be up to $1,000. CARRIED					Notes:
					Update report to Arts Board for November meeting.

Meeting Date:		17/08/2022	Item No:	AB22.41	Officer:	Coulston, Bronwyn	Completed:
Title:	Shoalhaven City Art Collection - Acquisitions - Mike Gilmore artworks - Not to be acquired
RESOLVED (Stephen Buzacott / Bonnie Porter-Green) That the three works offered to the City Art Collection by local artist Mike Gilmore are not acquired. CARRIED					Notes:
					29 Oct 2022 11:52am Coulston, Bronwyn The donor of the Mike Gilmore works was advised via phone call of the Board’s recommendation.

OUSTANDING ACTION FROM ORDINARY MEETINGS

Meeting Date:		06/06/2022	Item No:	Officer:	Coulston, Bronwyn	Completed:
Title:	AB22.31 - Shoalhaven Arts Board - Additional Item - Cultural Development - Review - Strategic Plan - Resourcing
RESOLVED (Clr Gray / Clr Ell) MIN22.380 That: 1. The Shoalhaven Arts Board in their upcoming review of the Arts Board Strategic Plan, give consideration to a function providing support in the Arts to schools and educators, small arts organisations and to the Council. 2. Once adopted by the Council, the Arts Board Strategic Plan initiatives be incorporated for consideration and resourcing in the Council’s future Delivery Programs and Budget. For: Clr Kotlash, Clr Norris, Clr Butler, Clr D'Ath, Clr Copley, Clr Ell, Clr Christen, Clr White, Clr Wells, Clr Watson, Clr Kitchener and Clr Gray Against: Nil CARRIED				Notes:
				08 Aug 2022 11:21am Coulston, Bronwyn Part 1 - The Arts Board Strategic Plan will not go ahead in the planned form. Alternate approaches to supporting arts across schools and community will need to be considered for the proposed Creative Economy Strategy. , Part 2 - The Creative Economy Strategy is proposed to take the place of the Arts Board Strategic Plan. This will be an adopted Council strategy and will inform the DPOP and annual resourcing strategy. 29 Oct 2022 11:52am Coulston, Bronwyn A report to the November Arts Board meeting outlines the alternate approach for the Board

Meeting Date:		31/08/2021	Item No:	AB21.20	Officer:	Coulston, Bronwyn	Completed:
Title:	Shoalhaven Regional Gallery - Strategic Plan 2020 - Summary of Achievements - 2021 / 25 Plan - New Gallery development
RESOLVED* (Clr Gartner / Clr Findley) MIN21.609 That: 1. The report on the Shoalhaven Regional Gallery – Strategic Plan 2020 – Summary of Achievements be received by the Shoalhaven Arts Board for information. 2. Arts Board members are consulted and given opportunity to provide feedback as part of the planning and development of the new 2021-2025 Gallery Strategic Plan 3. The Shoalhaven Arts Board continue to champion the work of the Shoalhaven Regional Gallery and the need for ongoing financial support. 4. Council include in the Strategic Plan 2021-2025 the development of a plan for a new regional gallery. CARRIED					Notes:
					04 Oct 2021 4:19pm Coulston, Bronwyn Staff planning for the new strategic plan will occur in November 2021. Following this a survey will be distributed to members of the Shoalhaven Arts Board, representatives of various arts organisations and the broader community for feedback and input. , The Draft Strategic Plan will be presented to the Shoalhaven Arts Board in early 2022. 24 Feb 2022 11:26am Coulston, Bronwyn Development of a new strategic plan for Shoalhaven Regional Gallery continues. Members will be invited to participate and provide information and feedback at appropriate points in the development process. 14 Jul 2022 1:11pm Coulston, Bronwyn - Completion Completed by Coulston, Bronwyn (action officer) on 14 July 2022 at 1:11:15 PM - Part 1 - For information only 15 Jul 2022 11:20am Bowley, Kay - Completion Uncompleted by Bowley, Kay - target date changed to 30 September 2021 29 Oct 2022 11:48am Coulston, Bronwyn Part 1 - For Information only - Complete / Part 2 - Gallery Strategic Plan being developed, Board Members will be consulted as part of the process / Part 3 - ongoing by Board Members - Complete / Part 4 - Development of a new Regional Gallery in included in the 2021/22 DPOP.

Meeting Date:		06/06/2022	Item No:	AB22.29	Officer:	Coulston, Bronwyn	Completed:
Title:	Shoalhaven Arts Board - Cultural Creative Industries Strategy Planning - Strategic Plan Review - Public Exhibition
RESOLVED* (Clr Wells / Clr White) MIN22.379 That the Shoalhaven Arts Board undertake a review of the existing Strategic Plan and present a Revised Strategic Plan to Council for consideration and adoption following the public exhibition process. CARRIED					Notes:
					08 Aug 2022 11:28am Coulston, Bronwyn The development of an Arts Board Strategic plan is placed on hold while we await the outcome of our application to the Building Better Regions Fund Community Investment Stream for the development of a Creative Economy Strategy. 29 Oct 2022 11:35am Coulston, Bronwyn A report to the November Arts Board meeting outlines the alternate approach for the Board

Meeting Date:		12/09/2022	Item No:	AB22.40	Officer:	Coulston, Bronwyn	Completed:
Title:	Management of the Dingle Hughes Bequest - Acquisitions and Archives
RESOLVED* (Clr Ell / Clr White) MIN22.595 That Council: 1. Advises Max Dingle OAM of the intention to accept the works listed in Table A (Attachment 2) into the City Art Collection on enactment of the Deed of Gift 2. Advises Max Dingle OAM that Council is not intending to acquire the works listed in Table B (Attachment 2) 3. Advises Max Dingle OAM of the intention to accept the entirety of the archival collection, including the artworks listed in Table C (Attachment 2) as part of the Deed of Gift. 4. Acknowledge and thank the Council staff involved in this process. For: Clr Findley, Clr Kotlash, Clr Norris, Clr Butler, Clr D'Ath, Clr Copley, Clr Ell, Clr Christen, Clr White, Clr Wells, Clr Watson, Clr Kitchener and Clr Gray Against: Nil CARRIED					Notes:
					29 Oct 2022 11:51am Coulston, Bronwyn Max Dingle has reviewed the Council Minute and sought additional clarification on some items. A meeting with Max is scheduled for the 15^th November.

COMPLETED 04 March 2022 – 04 October 2022

Meeting Date:		28/03/2022	Item No:	AB22.7	Officer:	Coulston, Bronwyn	Completed:	14/07/2022
Title:	Public Art - Opportunities Requirements - Consider Allocating Funds - 2022 / 2023 Budget - Specialist Contract - Review Policy - Document existing art
RESOLVED* (Clr Ell / Clr White) MIN22.211 That Council consider allocating funds of $100,000 in the 2022/23 budget process to contract an arts specialist to: 1. Undertake a full review of the current Public Art Policy and make recommendations for a new policy that supports innovative and best practice approach to public art in the Shoalhaven. 2. Develop suitable internal procedures and documentation that ensures that consistent approach and standards are applied to Public Art projects, supporting excellence in commissioning standard, safety and community engagement. 3. Document all existing public art across the Shoalhaven, it’s current condition, conservation / maintenance needs and status for recording in the City Collection Management system. CARRIED					Notes:
					10 May 2022 12:49pm Coulston, Bronwyn Funding was not allocated in the 2022/23 budget process. Alternate avenues will be explored to deliver parts 1 and 2 within existing resources and budget. Part 3 will be deferred until suitable funding / resourcing is identified. 14 Jul 2022 1:32pm Coulston, Bronwyn - Completion Completed by Coulston, Bronwyn (action officer) on 14 July 2022 at 1:32:33 PM - Funding was not allocated due to other priorities. The Manager - Arts and Culture will undertake a policy review and internal procedures to support ongoing work in the area of Public Art in the Shoalhaven. Review and documentation of existing public art will be the subject of future budget bids.

Meeting Date:		28/03/2022	Item No:	AB22.11	Officer:	Coulston, Bronwyn	Completed:	14/07/2022
Title:	Lake Tabourie Museum - Collection Care Management - Consider Operational Budget 2022 / 2023 & Recurrent Funding
RESOLVED* (Clr Ell / Clr White) MIN22.212 That Council: 1. Receive the report for information. 2. Consider an operational budget bid of $40,000 and a recurrent funding of $10,000 per annum as part of the 2022/23 budget process, to ensure critical conservation work can be undertaken at Lake Tabourie Museum CARRIED					Notes:
					10 May 2022 12:51pm Coulston, Bronwyn Funding allocated for the 2022/23 FY dependent on grant funding being provided by Create NSW. 14 Jul 2022 1:50pm Coulston, Bronwyn - Completion Completed by Coulston, Bronwyn (action officer) on 14 July 2022 at 1:50:16 PM - Funding allocated in the 2022/23 budget as per the request. Critical conversation work on the collection will commence in August.

Meeting Date:		04/04/2022	Item No:	AB22.15	Officer:	Hollier, Leah	Completed:	07/04/2022
Title:	Change of Start Time for Shoalhaven Arts Board Meetings
RESOLVED (By consent) That the start time for meetings of the Shoalhaven Arts Board be amended from 1:00pm to 4:00pm to facilitate attendance of Councillors appointed by the Council as members of the Board For: Clr Gray, Clr Kotlash, Clr D'Ath, Robert Crow, Jenny Thompson, Lynda Kelly and Christine Dunstan Against: Frank Howarth and Stephen Buzacott CARRIED					Notes:
					07 Apr 2022 4:47pm Hollier, Leah - Completion Completed by Hollier, Leah (action officer) on 07 April 2022 at 4:47:00 PM - Updated

Meeting Date:		28/04/2022	Item No:	AB22.18	Officer:	Hollier, Leah	Completed:	03/05/2022
Title:	Christine Dunstan - Appointed as Chairperson- Update ewok, InfoCouncil and Committee Folder Notes
RESOLVED (By consent) That Christine Dunstan be appointed as Chairperson of the Shoalhaven Arts Board for the two year term to April 2024. CARRIED					Notes:
					03 May 2022 10:00am Hollier, Leah - Completion Completed by Hollier, Leah (action officer) on 03 May 2022 at 10:00:02 AM - updated records

Meeting Date:		18/05/2022	Item No:	AB22.27	Officer:	Coulston, Bronwyn	Completed:	02/09/2022
Title:	Variation Request Approved - Arts Grants - Alaska Turner / Joanna Thomas
RESOLVED (Clr Gray / Clr Kotlash) That, under the Shoalhaven Arts Board Grants Guidelines, approval to be given to: 1. Alaska Turner and Joanna Thomas to vary project activities. 2. Alaska Turner for a time variation. CARRIED					Notes:
					08 Aug 2022 10:55am Coulston, Bronwyn Variations approved - grants are being undertaken with new activities. 02 Sep 2022 10:27am Coulston, Bronwyn - Completion Completed by Coulston, Bronwyn (action officer) on 02 September 2022 at 10:27:06 AM - Grant recipients will continue to deliver their approved program of activity as per the agreement. Acquittals and any further variation requests will be reported to the Board through the regular agenda.

Meeting Date:		06/06/2022	Item No:	AB22.20	Officer:	Bowley, Kay	Completed:	09/06/2022
Title:	Council Policy - Adoption - Shoalhaven Libraries - Operations Policy
RESOLVED* (Clr Wells / Clr White) MIN22.375 That Council adopt the revisions of the Shoalhaven Libraries Operations Policy. CARRIED					Notes:
					09 Jun 2022 3:49pm Bowley, Kay - Completion Completed by Bowley, Kay (action officer) on 09 June 2022 at 3:49:37 PM - Policy finalised in TRIM / Website updated

Meeting Date:		06/06/2022	Item No:	AB22.21	Officer:	Bowley, Kay	Completed:	09/06/2022
Title:	Council Policy - Adoption - Shoalhaven Libraries - Children's Policy
RESOLVED* (Clr Wells / Clr White) MIN22.376 That Council adopt the revisions of the Shoalhaven Libraries Children’s Policy. CARRIED					Notes:
					09 Jun 2022 3:49pm Bowley, Kay - Completion Completed by Bowley, Kay (action officer) on 09 June 2022 at 3:49:46 PM - Policy finalised in TRIM / Website updated

Meeting Date:		06/06/2022	Item No:	AB22.22	Officer:	Bowley, Kay	Completed:	09/06/2022
Title:	Council Policy - Adoption - Internet Usage Policy
RESOLVED* (Clr Wells / Clr White) MIN22.377 That Council adopt the revisions of the Shoalhaven Libraries Internet Usage Policy. CARRIED					Notes:
					09 Jun 2022 3:49pm Bowley, Kay - Completion Completed by Bowley, Kay (action officer) on 09 June 2022 at 3:49:55 PM - Policy finalised in TRIM / Website updated

Meeting Date:		06/06/2022	Item No:	AB22.24	Officer:	Hollier, Leah	Completed:	18/08/2022
Title:	Shoalhaven Arts Board - Appointment - Community Member - Kate Dezarnaulds - Bonnie Porter Greene - Drew Longbottom
RESOLVED* (Clr Wells / Clr White) MIN22.378 That Council, as recommended by the Shoalhaven Arts Board, endorse the appointment of the following community members to a two (2) year term: 1. Kate Dezarnaulds – Community Member 2. Bonnie Porter Greene – Community Member 3. Drew Longbottom – Aboriginal Community Member CARRIED					Notes:
					18 Aug 2022 12:20pm Hollier, Leah Updated spreadsheet and InfoCouncil. 18 Aug 2022 12:21pm Hollier, Leah - Completion Completed by Hollier, Leah (action officer) on 18 August 2022 at 12:21:05 PM - Updated spreadsheet and InfoCouncil

Meeting Date:		24/06/2022	Item No:	AB22.32	Officer:	Patterson, Karen	Completed:	04/08/2022
Title:	Anti-Nuclear Family Play - Creative Development - Funds voted
RESOLVED (By consent) That Shoalhaven Arts Board endorses the $9,100 be released from the Arts Reserve to financially support the creative development of Alana Valentine’s play The Anti-Nuclear Family at Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre from July 11-16, 2022. CARRIED					Notes:
					04 Aug 2022 11:49am Patterson, Karen - Completion Completed by Patterson, Karen (action officer) on 04 August 2022 at 11:49:22 AM - Funds were allocated to creative development budget. Report on outcome of development forms part of SAB August report.

Meeting Date:		12/09/2022	Item No:	AB22.36	Officer:	Cunningham, Brad	Completed:	16/09/2022
Title:	South Coast Cooperative Libraries Collection Development Policy - Adoption
RESOLVED* (Clr Ell / Clr White) MIN22.594 That Council adopt the revisions of the South Coast Cooperative Libraries Collection Development Policy (Attachment 1). For: Clr Findley, Clr Kotlash, Clr Norris, Clr Butler, Clr D'Ath, Clr Copley, Clr Ell, Clr Christen, Clr White, Clr Wells, Clr Watson, Clr Kitchener and Clr Gray Against: Nil CARRIED					Notes:
					16 Sep 2022 9:08am Cunningham, Brad - Completion Completed by Cunningham, Brad (action officer) on 16 September 2022 at 9:08:51 AM - Updated in TRIM/Content Manager

Meeting Date:		17/08/2022	Item No:	AB22.39	Officer:	Coulston, Bronwyn	Completed:	19/09/2022
Title:	Subcommittees / Working Groups / Portfolios / Panel of Peers - Membership
RESOLVED (Stephen Buzacott / Clr Kotlash) That the following subcommittees and working groups be established with the membership as detailed: 1. Art Acquisition and Collection Subcommittee a. Chair of the Shoalhaven Arts Board b. Manager – Arts and Culture or nominated representative c. Shoalhaven Arts Board member - Stephen Buzacott d. Shoalhaven Arts Board member – Bonnie Porter-Green e. Shoalhaven Arts Board member – Clr Moo D’Ath f. Invited Arts Professional – Boe-Lin Bastian g. Invited Arts Professional 2. Arts Board Grants Working Group a. Shoalhaven Arts Board member - Christine Dunstan b. Shoalhaven Arts Board member - Jenny Thompson c. Shoalhaven Arts Board member - Kate Dezarnaulds d. Appropriate Council officer from the Cultural sector e. Invited Art Professional 3. Art Collection Strategic Planning Working Group a. Chair of the Shoalhaven Arts Board b. Manager – Arts and Culture or nominated representative c. Shoalhaven Arts Board member - Frank Howarth d. Shoalhaven Arts Board member – Stephen Buzacott e. Shoalhaven Arts Board member Clr Moo D’Ath f. Invited Arts Professional -– Boe-Lin Bastian g. Invited Arts Professional – Aboriginal CARRIED					Notes:
					19 Sep 2022 11:34am Coulston, Bronwyn - Completion Completed by Coulston, Bronwyn (action officer) on 19 September 2022 at 11:34:50 AM - all committees now formed and finalised. Work by committees and working parties will continue as required for progressing the actions of the Shoalhaven Arts Board.

Shoalhaven Arts Board – Wednesday 09 November 2022

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AB22.52 Shoalhaven Libraries - Update

HPERM Ref: D22/429230

Department: Library Services

Approver: Jane Lewis, Director - City Lifestyles

Reason for Report

To update the Shoalhaven Arts Board on activities and services at Shoalhaven Libraries.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Arts Board receive the Shoalhaven Libraries Update report for information.

Options

1. Receive the report for information.

Implications: The Shoalhaven Arts Board will be informed and updated on activities at Shoalhaven Libraries.

2. Request more information.

Implications: Unknown

Background

The first quarter of the 2022-2023 fiscal year (July, August, September), Shoalhaven Libraries had almost 70,000 people visit and over 69,000 physical items were borrowed. During this time, the library also welcomed 749 new members.

Library staff answered 6000 requests for general, reference and local studies information and additionally answered over 4,500 requests for help with technology. Our digital library loaned almost 29,000 items including eBook, eAudio books and eMagazines. Library visitation, loan rates and memberships continue to steadily increase towards pre-COVID levels but are not there yet.

The membership campaign has gained momentum with the launch of a special ‘My First Library Card’ for children and a bookmark design competition for both children and adults. Also part of the campaign is the ‘Humans of the Library’ social media series spotlighting some of our lovely patrons and we are also featuring testimonials from well-known authors and celebrity library advocates, including award winning author Marcus Zusak.

Focus Weeks/Months:

During this quarter we celebrated:

· NAIDOC Week

· Children’s Book Week

· National Science Week

· Family History Month

· History Month

· Library & Information Week

During NAIDOC Week, local group Gadhungul Murring ran creative, interactive workshops for kids at all our branches, sharing stories and helping the kids design and decorate a boomerang to take home.

For Libraries and Information Week in July the theme was ‘Rewrite, Renew, Reimagine’, and Nowra Library created an engaging display of modern retellings of classic novels.

Children’s Book Week was bigger and better than ever. This year’s theme was ‘Dreaming with eyes open’ and there were special story times, competitions for kids of all ages, beautiful displays at all our libraries and our famous reader’s theatre performances for local schools -both in the library and on the road. The Book Week Roadshow is highly anticipated by local schools and this year the performance featured two shortlisted titles and one of them, ‘Jetty Jumping’ with text by Andrea Rowe, was illustrated by south coast local Hannah Sommerville. The library took the roadshow to ten locations around the Shoalhaven and performed for over 1300 local students and their teachers.

The theme for National Science Week this year was ‘Glass’ and Nowra and Sanctuary Point branches ran STEM themed sessions for kids to learn more about the properties and uses of glass and the kids made a marble run to take home.

Author Talks:

During this quarter, the library continued to promote local authors and foster a love of books and literacy in the community by hosting talks and book launches from a wide range of authors, including authors of fiction, poetry, children’s books and more. Kaye Johnson, Adam Courtenay, Kate Forsyth, poet Peter Balkowski, Julie Bennett, Scott Newman, Irene Wilkie, and Tori Haschka.

During August the library hosted Bookfest Nowra. This event showcased the work of local authors and illustrators who recently published a book. Featured authors were Maria McKinnon, Michele Brown, Dorothy Swoope, Chris Foster, Deb Benson, Darryl Kelly, Donna D’Antonio, Susan Loch and Matthew Anderson. Each author speed-shared their book with the audience, held a Q&A session and had works available for sale and signing.

In September, thirty-eight South Coast women shared stories of connection through their textile art in the book ‘Our Common Threads’. These personal and often generational stories of meaning foreground the unique expression of women’s histories and how their handmade creations can communicate love and relationships. This was a powerful and emotional session for all who attended.

Although our focus has shifted back to physical programming, we continued to use the skills developed during COVID lockdowns to promote and create digital programs. We offered online events with our digital partners such as Ben’s Book Club - a free monthly book discussion made possible by Libby and Overdrive as well as Library Lovers, a book discussion program hosted by author Maya Linnell, also made possible by Overdrive.

The library produced and hosted on Facebook several new online story times, read by our talented library staff with Auslan interpretation by Mikey and made possible with the help of ALIA and Deaf Connect.

Online Assistance:

Members of the community still come to us for help with their digital skills and during this quarter, we extended our Tech Help sessions previously only held at Nowra, to also include sessions at Ulladulla and Sanctuary Point branches. Anybody needing help with a particular issue can drop into the library and get 15 minutes assistance from a library staff member.

Local Heritage:

Our Local Heritage Collection is an essential service as it helps the community to develop an understanding of local identity and how the past has shaped what it has become today. Each week we host a Flashback Friday post on Facebook to share snapshots of life in the Shoalhaven in years gone by. Recently we have highlighted Conjola, Yalwal, Nowra Park Estate, Bomaderry Railway Station, Lake Burrill and the Royal Tour in 1954, to name just a few.

The oral history project - Multicultural Shoalhaven, created with help from the State Library of New South Wales, is now complete and available on our catalogue to listen and be fascinated by the stories of Shoalhaven immigrants young and old.

August is Family History Month and we promoted free online events and family history resources available at the library. Then in September, we were extremely excited to create a Community Recipe book as a part of History Week, now available as an eBook on our digital platforms.

Other Public Programmes:

Other regular events held at our libraries included craft sessions for adults and weekly knit-ins at Ulladulla Library, Coding Club at Sanctuary Point branch, and LEGO Clubs, Rhymetimes and Story Times at all our branches.

Nowra and Ulladulla branches hosted dementia Information sessions including the topics ‘What is dementia?’, ‘Reduce your risk’ and ‘Building dementia friendly communities’.

For the annual Winter Reading Challenge, library patrons were encouraged to record every three books read for an entry into a prize draw with extra prizes for submitting a review. Winners were delighted to receive a prize bag including books and a personalised mug.

During the school holidays, the libraries ran many fun and creative sessions including puppet making, stained glass art, investigating flight with paper planes, exploring movement and motors building a battery toy car, tiny art shows, coding Sphero bots, stop-motion animation and lots more. We collaborated with South Coast Writers Centre to facilitate writing workshops with well-known authors such as Alison Tait and Gabby Stroud for young adults and with GRIT to run resilience workshops for kids.

New Sanctuary Point Library Public Art Project:

The Art Selection Panel assessed the EOI submissions, and 3 artists were shortlisted for each artwork commission. The shortlisted artists were invited to develop a conceptual proposal in response to the Artist Brief and paid a concept development fee.

During Concept Development stage the shortlisted artists worked with Tilt, an industrial design company, to develop their submission. As a lot of the artists selected are very new to working at this scale it was important to provide this level of support, and for the support to be equal amongst the artists, so when the final decision is made it’s based solely on their art.

In September, shortlisted artists presented concepts for the sunshade and lighting elements to the panel for a final selection to be made. Currently, negotiations have commenced with the successful artist for the sunshade element, however the lighting work has been placed on hold pending the outcome of a grant application submitted to the Australian Council, expected by late October. Sculpture artists will present their concepts in November.

Shoalhaven Libraries Strategic Plan:

Development of the new Shoalhaven Libraries Strategic is progressing well with a draft document to be ready by the end of the month.

Shoalhaven Arts Board – Wednesday 09 November 2022

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AB22.54 Shoalhaven Regional Gallery- Update- August, September, October 2022

HPERM Ref: D22/447389

Department: Arts & Culture

Approver: Jane Lewis, Director - City Lifestyles

Reason for Report

To inform the Shoalhaven Arts Board of the activities and events that have occurred at Shoalhaven Regional Gallery for the period of August, September and October 2022.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Arts Board receive the Regional Gallery Update report for information.

Options

1. Receive the report for information.

Implications: The Shoalhaven Arts Board will be informed of the activities and achievements of Shoalhaven Regional Gallery.

2. Change or Request more information.

Implications: Unknown.

Background

Shoalhaven Regional Gallery has delivered a wide range of exhibition and activities in the period from August – October 2022.

Exhibitions

Points on a Path and expressive abstract exhibition of works spanning 20 years by Grace Burzese, wrapped up on 27 August in the Main and Foyer galleries.

Modest Fancies in the Parlour by Julie Paterson – a very well received and spirited exhibition – closed on 27 August. Julie’s Make Your Own Lamp Shade workshop held on 6 August sold out in record time to an audience of very enthusiastic participants.

Also closing at the end of August was Valley Pathways by James Gulliver Hancock. The Gallery was fortunate to host a series of workshops related to this exhibition through the School Holidays program as well as the Intergenerational Drawing workshop for children and adults.

The annual Shoalhaven Art Society 55^th Annual Open Art Competition ran through all four main galleries during September showcasing 2D works by local artists. A number of prizes were awarded with some standout works in the Youth section. Attendance was significant across the 3-week exhibition period, with the Shoalhaven Art Society members providing the support for patrons visiting the exhibitions.

Art sales for the duration were successful, with just over $8,000 dollars in sales, helping to support local artists and the Gallery alike. Artist Kim Grivas, whose oil painting Little Moment took out the Contemporary Section First Prize, held a two-day Interiors in Oils workshop 10-11 September.

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Memento - Pictures of You, an exhibition of works by renowned Melbourne based artist Gina Kalabishis, officially opened on 15 October in the Main Gallery with her show running from 1 October – 26 November. These large scale works on paper and paintings explore her relationship with the Shoalhaven environment, formed in response to a residency at Bundanon. Ikebana, a centuries-old Japanese technique of arranging flowers, has been incorporated into these landscapes, creating captivating works. The artist-lead Drawing Excursion workshop implemented Ikebana practice on Saturday 22 October, another sold-out workshop held at the Gallery.

Local ceramicist Cita Daidone is currently presenting a series of ceramic works in Frivolity and Fire exploring concepts around loss, remembrance and rebirth drawn from her experience of the Currowan fire, opening on 1 October. Cita has a strong following and on 15 October provided a ‘Nature in Porcelain’ workshop as part of the Sydney Craft Week program that sold out almost immediately.

Nettie Sumner’s Kinship exhibition of finely hand knitted wire wall hangings and sculptures, are on display until 26 November. The strong theme of family ancestors and local folklore has provoked audiences, with strong sales of her works reflecting this.

Speaking Water is an audio-visual project curated by local artist Anna Glynn, bringing together five international video artists (Jasmine Cederqvist – Sweden, Simone Hooymans the Netherlands & Norway, Emily Jay – USA & Italy, Anastasia Savinova – Sweden) exploring the theme of water. This a project that has come out of the lockdowns and lack of travel over the past two years, seeking to find new ways to collaborate artistically and continue to be inspired by others. One visitor fondly described the exhibition as “The MCA (Museum of Contemporary Art) in Nowra!”.

Visitor comments included:

· “What a talented lot of artists in the Shoalhaven and what a great gallery – thanks”

· “Beautiful gallery! Loved the 55^th annual exhibit 😊”

· “Loved the Ikebana twist to the Australian theme”

· “Fascinating. Loved everything, well done”

Public Programs

The Gallery had another very busy quarter of public programs. A portion of the programming has been alongside the upcoming exhibition Plant Your Feet opening 10 December 2022. Under the curatorship of Glenn Barkley, the Gallery education staff have been hard at work producing ceramic tile blanks ready for decoration. These tiles have then been workshopped with a variety of audiences to be included in the exhibition at the end of the year.

Delivery of these programs have been held on and off-site. Stockland hosted Gallery staff during the school holidays, as a drop-in workshop – increasing the exposure of the educational programs at the Gallery. Several participants have now enrolled in the Art After School classes held through the school term.

Visitors to Culburra’s Burradise Festival were able to take part in producing many fine tiles on Saturday 24 September. Among those braving the elements and creating a tile was Shoalhaven City Council Mayor Amanda Findley.

Artist and educator Nicole Ison presented workshops at UOW Shoalhaven Campus as part of the UOW Learning Labs.

Penny Craig, Cita Daidone and Nicole Ison – all local artists and educators have facilitated many school excursions and workshops including Nowra Anglican College and Pre-school, Bomaderry High, Nowra High, Shoalhaven River College, Kangaroo Valley Public School and Art After School classes. These phenomenal facilitators engage and welcome students, opening up their imaginations and support their creativity.


Four of the very enthusiastic participants of Julie Paterson’s Make Your Own Lampshade workshop on 6 August.	A work in progress of an Interiors In Oils workshop participant, run by oil painter Kim Grivas 10-11 September.

Current exhibiting artist Gina Kalabishis with an arrangement to introduce participants of the Drawing Excursion workshop to the practice of making art from Ikebana, held 22 October.

Spring School Holiday Workshops ran from 4-6 October with 4 out of 5 workshops focussing on fun with clay and ceramics – creating tiles with representations and imagery of their connection to the Shoalhaven. Younger children and their caregivers worked together whilst the older kids were happy to create more autonomously.

Art After School classes have commenced 17 October with most classes selling out, highlighting the demand and popularity of the classes. Caregivers were again able to use their Creative Kids NSW vouchers which cover the costs of the classes in most cases. Classes run each afternoon from Monday to Thursday during school term.

Grant Funded Projects

Arts and Culture department continue to apply for and receive funding for a range of activities.

The successful grant funding from Create NSW through their Local Govt Authority Project for Plant your Feet by Glenn Barkley, has been implemented extensively already and funding from the Reconnecting Regional Fund has supported the delivery of our tile making programs.

The Gallery was successful in its application for a 2022 Community Heritage Grant from the National Library of Australia. The grant will provide $6,050 for a preservation needs assessment of the Shoalhaven City Art Collection.

Current / Coming up

Continuing through until 26 November: Memento – Pictures of You - Gina Kalabishis, Frivolity and Fire - Cita Daidone, Kinship - Nettie Sumner and Speaking Water curated by Anna Glynn.

Commencing 10 December and into the new year, closing 28 January, will be the epic whole-Gallery extravaganza Plant Your Feet curated by, and exhibiting works of, ceramicist and contemporary artist (and part-time Shoalhaven resident) Glenn Barkley.

This highly anticipated exhibition will showcase Glenn’s own works, explore multi-layered responses to place, history and community, paying homage to his hometown region of the Shoalhaven. Tiles made by the community through the Gallery’s public programs as well as artefacts on loan from a variety of local galleries and museums will be curated as part of the exhibition.

We are anticipating a busy summer season at the Gallery, with shop sales in the last quarter at almost $7,000 – we are forecasting a turnover of even greater sales for local artisans in the lead up to the festive season.

Shoalhaven Arts Board – Wednesday 09 November 2022

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AB22.53 Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre Update

HPERM Ref: D22/440229

Department: Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre

Approver: Jane Lewis, Director - City Lifestyles

Reason for Report

To inform the Shoalhaven Arts Board of recent and future programming, events and community engagement activities at the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre

Recommendation

The Shoalhaven Arts Board receives the report for information.

Options

1. Receive the report for information.

Implications: The Shoalhaven Arts Board members are kept updated and apprised of programming, events and community engagement activities at the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre

2. Request for more information.

Implications: Unknown.

Background

Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre is thriving with record levels of activity, exceptional ticket sales, and strong results in social impact surveys.

Annual Season Update

Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre’s 2022 Season and 2022 Morning Matinee Season have proven popular. Overall the Centre’s programming has resulted in a positive recovery to audience numbers following multiple disruptions due to the pandemic and compliance works shut-downs.

Cabaret stars Catherine Alcorn and Phil Scott invited patrons to dress up for their show 30 Something on July 15. The immersive party-style cabaret took audiences back to the speakeasy days via a 21^st century lens, to New Year’s Eve 1939 in Bohemian Kings Cross.

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30 Something starred Phil Scott and Catherine Alcorn

30 Something Culture Counts results aggregated from 22 respondents:

· Access: 67%

· Captivation 81%

· Cultural Contribution: 66%

· Enthusiasm: 78%

· Local Impact: 79%

· Presentation: 80%

The Morning Matinee Ultimate Leading Ladies performed by Monique Montez (pictured) and her band on July 20 attracted a strong house for their performance showcasing powerhouse divas.

Ultimate Leading Ladies Culture Counts results aggregated from 42 respondents:

· Access: 82%

· Captivation 91%

· Cultural Contribution: 82%

· Local Impact: 91%

· Presentation: 92%

The Grigoryan Brothers concert in The Studio, on Friday, August 5 was a sell-out. The acclaimed guitarists Slava and Leonard Grigoryan (pictured above) created a suite of music for their This Is Us concert inspired by artefacts they selected from the National Museum of Australia collection.

Grigoryan Brothers Culture Counts results aggregated from 29 respondents:

· Access: 86%

· Captivation 86%

· Cultural Contribution: 89%

· Local Impact: 89%

· Presentation: 91%

Grigoryan Brothers patron quote captured via Culture Counts survey: “The venue is fantastic: The Studio was perfect for Saturday night’s show. It was intimate and felt personal. More shows in The Studio please.”

Samah Sabwi’s play THEM, about five young people caught up in a city at war had a powerful impact on high school and adult audiences.

THEM tells the story of a young couple in an unnamed Middle Eastern country trying to decide whether to flee with their friends on a boat, or ride out the daily threat of bombs. The work was performed by a cast of five, some of whom are refugees, others were the children of refugees.

THEM Culture Counts results aggregated from 27 respondents:

· Access: 81%

· Captivation 92%

· Cultural Contribution: 96%

· Local Impact: 90%

· Presentation: 91%

Culture Counts respondent’s feedback: “Well acted, staged, thought-provoking and written”

Pictured: Domini Forster and Lior’s concert in The Studio on August 14 was a sell-out.

Lior, an acclaimed Israeli/Australian songwriter collaborated online with fellow musician Domini Forster during the pandemic and they created the intimate album Animal in Hiding.

Their concert at the Entertainment Centre was a great success.

Lior and Domini Forster Culture Counts results aggregated from 23 respondents:

· Access: 79%

· Captivation 94%

· Cultural Contribution: 84%

· Local Impact: 92%

· Presentation: 91%

Culture Counts respondent’s feedback: “Great to have authentic Australian singer-songwriters in an intimate, attentive surrounding, with excellent sound. Let's make this type of showcase a cultural staple at the Shoalhaven Ent Cent! “

Andrea Lam’s Choose Your Own (Piano) Adventure on September 6 attracted a smaller than average Morning Matinee audience, but those in attendance rated their experience highly.

Via a QR code voting system the audience voted from a selection of works performed by the award-winning pianist (pictured above).

Andrea Lam’s Choose Your Own (Piano) Adventure Culture Counts results aggregated from 23 respondents:

· Access: 83%

· Captivation 84%

· Cultural Contribution: 86%

· Local Impact: 91%

· Presentation: 91%

Two performances of Unsung, a cabaret celebrating the pioneering women of Aussie pop and rock were staged in The Studio on Friday, September 9.

Amelia Ryan (pictured left), originally from Kiama, and Libby O’Donovan were inspired by the story of two Queensland women who in 1965 chained themselves to a bar in an iconic Brisbane pub.

They were trailblazers protesting that women weren’t allowed in public bars. Unsung featured songs from that era by Australian trailblazing performers such as Little Patti, Judy Stone and Margaret Roadknight.

UNSUNG Culture Counts results aggregated from 32 respondents:

· Access: 79%

· Captivation 88%

· Cultural Contribution: 81%

· Local Impact: 86%

· Presentation: 91%

National Living Treasure John Bell and internationally acclaimed pianist Simon Tedeschi performed With Love, Amadeus to a highly appreciative audience on Saturday, September 24.

Tedeschi performed works by Mozart, interspersed with John Bell reciting letters penned by the composer to family members, peers and benefactors which revealed the prodigy’s bold sense of humour, triumphs of his extraordinarily short life and personal tragedies.

Both artists attended a Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre Members post-show meet and greet where they were generous with their time in discussing how the production had been researched.

With Love, Amadeus Culture Counts results aggregated from 39 respondents:

· Access: 89%

· Captivation 90%

· Cultural Contribution: 89%

· Local Impact: 92%

· Presentation: 89%

More than 1250 people, predominately infants from 13 Shoalhaven preschools and primary schools gave Edward the Emu a rockstar reception on Tuesday, October 18.

The hilarious antics of Edward, who was suffering an existential crisis, captured the hearts of children, parents and teachers alike.

They were entranced by the large-scale puppets, their adventures, and the love story of Edward and Edwina.

With 10 emu chicks on the way Edwina tried out for a series of jobs, with hilarious results, in a bid to feed the hungry mouths of their 10 emu chicks.

The multi-award-winning Monkey Baa Theatre Company’s production, based on books by Sheena Knowles and Rod Clement, sparked dozens of inquiries from children at the post-show Q&A sessions following both performances.

The children were entranced by the puppets, the set, and the actor/puppeteers’ performances. At the time of lodging this report the Culture Counts survey period was still open.

In connection with this production 30 students from Bomaderry Public School Kindergarten and 58 students at Huskisson Primary School participated in a Monkey Baa teaching artist in-school workshop relating to performance and the themes of Edward the Emu prior to seeing the show at the Entertainment Centre.

Morning Matinee patrons enjoyed sharing a post-show lunch with musicians from the Royal Australian Navy Band including musical director Lieutenant David Coit (pictured far left).

More than 530 people attended the Entertainment Centre for a rousing performance by the Royal Australian Navy band on October 19.

The 38-piece band performed a truly varied programme of works including pageant instrumentals, hits from West End hit musicals, and I Still Call Australia Home featuring didgeridoo.

At the time of writing this report the Culture Counts Survey for this show was not finalised.

Reconnecting Regional NSW

Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre will receive more than $268,000 via Reconnecting Regional NSW Community Events Program to deliver Shoalhaven Let’s Celebrate and Laugh.

Reconnecting Regional NSW was designed by the State Government to assist communities and businesses to recover from the impacts of COVID 19 restrictions, border closures and cumulative natural disasters.

The program was planned by regional NSW to stimulate economic activity and reconnect communities by facilitating the delivery of events that promote greater social cohesion, bring people together to create improved social outcomes and social cohesion.

Casey Donovan in Concert was programmed at the Entertainment Centre on October 1 to complement the 50^th Anniversary NRL Aboriginal Cup.

Tickets were set at $9 to make the Concert affordable and match the funding guidelines. The Auditorium sold out in days.

Casey and her five-piece band were a huge hit with the audience, as were support act Matty Walker and Kyarna Rose. The Welcome to Country was performed by Yuin elder Uncle Tom Moore of North Nowra. (All pictured below in the Green Room).

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Casey Donovan In Concert Culture Counts results aggregated from 101 respondents:

· Access: 85%

· Captivation 92%

· Cultural Contribution: 91%

· Local Impact: 94%

· Presentation: 90%

South Coast Country a two-day line-up of nationally acclaimed acts, plus a free family fun day, on October 8 and 9, was also supported by the Reconnecting Regional NSW funding.

Audience members travelled from across the Shoalhaven, Victoria, the ACT and Sydney to attend the weekend.

The sell-out rocking country themed Saturday night bill included four bands - high-energy act James Johnston, Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley, Hinterland, and Darlinghurst. The high calibre line-up attracted a strong family audience.

South Coast Country – Saturday Culture Counts results aggregated from 67 respondents:

· Access: 87%

· Captivation 92%

· Cultural Contribution 86%

· Local Impact: 94%

· Presentation: 90%

· Wellbeing 92%

South Coast Country’s Sunday program included a free family fun day from 10am-3pm which was planned as an activation for the Centre’s forecourt.

With torrential rain forecast for the entire weekend the decision was made to bring the Welcome to Country, stage, art activities, roving acts, four bands, line dancing, themed games and face-painting indoors.

Yuin elder Uncle Sonny Simms performed a welcome. Proud Yuin and Gadigal performer Nana Miss-Koori (pictured above) was MC for the family fun day which was attended by more than 2,500 people.

Shoalhaven based Hoorah Events was retained to produce the family fun day which included the employment of dozens of local performing and visual artists, and the themed site dressing.

The ticketed South Coast Country acoustic line up from 3-7pm on the Sunday was attended by more than 600 people and featured eight-time Golden Guitar winner Fanny Lumsden and her band, musical journeyman Luke O’Shea, poetic songwriter Shane Nicholson and charismatic performer Amber Lawrence and her band.

South Coast Country – Sunday ticketed event Culture Counts results aggregated from 56 respondents:

· Access: 84%

· Captivation 90%

· Cultural Contribution 87%

· Local Impact: 95%

· Presentation: 90%

· Wellbeing 90%

Other events which will be supported via the Reconnecting Regional NSW are the Multicultural Comedy Gala at Ulladulla Civic Centre on Saturday, November 19, and a Live and Local Microfestival for Nowra CVD which is being planned. Both of these events will be free to attend.

Social Impact

Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre surveys patrons to measure the social impact of its Season presentations using the Culture Counts program.

The aggregate results across 21 productions, based on survey responses from 783 patrons are uniformly high.

· Captivation: how engaging the patron found the work. Aggregate result:86.8%

· Meaning: did the work move or inspire the patron. Aggregate result: 82.5%

· Local Impact: is the work important for the local area. Aggregate result 89.5%

· Belonging: measures if the work promoted a feeling of connection with the local community. Aggregate result: 80%

2023 Season

Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre will reveal its 2023 Season at a dedicated launch on Monday, December 5. The program includes a great variety of works including fine music, popular music, dramas old and new, children’s theatre, physical theatre, comedy, and three First Nations productions.

Professional Affiliations

Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre Manager continues as Deputy Chair of Arts on Tour’s Board, is an executive member of New South Wales and ACT Performing Arts Centres Association.

Shoalhaven Arts Board – Wednesday 09 November 2022

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AB22.55 Shoalhaven Arts Board Grants - Status Update - Acquittals and Variations - 2020/21 and 2021/22 Grants

HPERM Ref: D22/435108

Department: Arts & Culture

Approver: Jane Lewis, Director - City Lifestyles

Attachments: 1. Jill Talbot - Grant Acquittal ⇩

2. Headspace Nowra - Grant Acquittal ⇩

3. Damien Lane Jonnie Leahy - Grant Acquittal ⇩

4. Natalie McDonagh - Grant Acquittal ⇩

5. Brooke Boland - Grant Acquittal ⇩

Reason for Report

To provide the Arts Board with information about the status of grants disbursed across the 2020/21 and 2021/22 Financial years.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Arts Board:

1. Accept the Acquittals from

a. Brooke Boland

b. Headspace Nowra

c. Damien Lane and Jonnie Leahy

d. Natalie McDonagh

e. Jill Talbot

2. Accept the variation requests from

a. Albatross Musical Theatre Company – to June 2023

3. Receive the update on the three grant projects that are continuing for information.

Options

1. Adopt the Recommendation as printed.

Implications: The completed grants will be acquitted and closed off, the requested variation will be approved and the board will be informed about the status of all current grants.

2. Change or amend the Recommendation

Implications: Unknown

3. Reject the Recommendation

Implications: Rejection of the requested variation will require Albatross Musical Theatre Company to return all unspent funding to General Funds. This money may not be available for reallocation to other arts related projects and will hamper the ability of AMTC to undertake the professional development activities they are seeking for their members.

Background

Across the Financial Years of 2020/21 and 2021/22 the Shoalhaven Arts Board have funded 13 grants to a total value of $58,740, supporting a variety of projects under both the ‘Professional Development’ stream and the ‘Sense of Place’ project-based grants. Many of these projects have been impacted as a result of COVID and extreme weather events. The following report provides an update on the projects and the acquittals or variation requests received.

Projects completed and acquitted

1) Jill Talbot -Pressing On: The Power of the Print - $3,000

Jill has completed her printing classes undertaken through the Professional Development Grant. As evidenced by the photos in the acquittal report, the classes were a success and Jill has improved her teaching practise and diversified her own practise.

2) Damien Lane and Jonnie Leahy - Attendance of the Australian International Documentary Conference in 2022 - $3,000

Damien and Jonnie attended the documentary film conference in Melbourne as per their professional development grant. The connections made through this have facilitated them to increase their team, bringing on an editor to support their current and future film projects

3) Headspace Nowra - Vincentia High School Pride Mural - $10,000 and Documenting Pride Mural - $4280

The mural has been completed at Vincentia High School. As evidenced in their acquittal report and film, the mural has been a success and added significantly to the school environment

4) Natalie McDonagh - Bringing Yak Woman Oracle to Life - $2,150

Natalie was able to perform Yak Woman Oracle at the recent ‘What the Body Knows’ arts festival that took place in Huskisson over the October Long Weekend

5) Brooke Boland - Advanced Creative Non-Fiction course - $420

Brooke has completed the writer’s course and gained a greater knowledge and understanding of non-fiction writing.

Variation Request

Albatross Musical Theatre - Professional Development Courses for 4 Members - $2,710

Albatross Musical Theatre are seeking a scope and time variation to allow them to undertake alternate activities with the grant funds received. The alternate activities still meet the aims of the project funded and are within the remit of the grants program.

Due to face-to-face courses being cancelled by NIDA, the AMTC enrolled four members on two different backstage courses that were being presented online. These courses were ‘The Art of Lighting Design’ and ‘Producing for the Stage’.

Face to face courses are now being offered again and one member has been enrolled in the week long course ‘Technical Production’ which will be undertaken in late January. Travel and accommodation costs as well as course enrolment fees are being supported through the grant funding.

As long as no further cancellations occur, AMTC will acquit the grant after this course and the acquittal report will be presented to the June 2023 Arts Board meeting.

Information Updates

Alaska Turner – Backstage Theatre Craft - $3,000

Alaska Turner is continuing with her development as per her prior approved variation request. She completed the internship at the Opera House, using grant funds for accommodation and food during the internship period, and will undertake the working at heights course as well as a course at NIDA on backstage practises following the next show by AMTC which she is involved in.

Nowra Public School – Connecting Community to School - $10,000

Nowra Public School will be holding a presentation evening of the work they have achieved through the Sense of Place Grant on 2 December 2022. All Arts Board members are invited to attend.

Shoalhaven Youth Orchestra – South Coast Sketches - $10,000

The Youth Orchestra continue to rehearse the commissioned works in preparation for their CD launch on 10 December.

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Community Engagement

The Arts Board grants are available to all artists and arts groups within the Shoalhaven. They are advertised annually and applications are assessed by members of the Arts Board.

Financial Implications

All funding for Arts Board grants has been made available and allocated. There are no financial implications to the variation request sought. All grant acquittals show that the money was spent as approved and no additional funding was requested from Council.

Shoalhaven Arts Board – Wednesday 09 November 2022

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AB22.57 Arts Board Strategic Engagement Opportunities - Update and Advice on Projects 2022/23

HPERM Ref: D22/447499

Department: Arts & Culture

Approver: Jane Lewis, Director - City Lifestyles

Reason for Report

To inform the Board of opportunities to engage with arts and cultural initiatives that strategically align with and form part of Council’s adopted and resourced Delivery Program and Operations Plan (DPOP).

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Arts Board:

1. Receive the report for information.

2. Continue to champion the need for a Creative Economy Strategy and provide advice to the Manager – Arts and Culture on potential funding opportunities for this work.

Options

1. Adopt the Recommendation as printed.

Implications: The Board are informed about strategic engagement opportunities aligning with the adopted DPOP and Resourcing Strategy, and the status of the Creative Economy Strategy.

2. Change or amend the Recommendation.

Implications: Unknown at this time.

Background

Role of the Arts Board

The presentation earlier in the business paper noted that the Shoalhaven Arts Board play an important role in working with Council staff to deliver the adopted and resourced priorities as presented in the Community Strategic Plan (CSP), the Delivery Plan and Operational Program (DPOP) and the Departmental Strategic Plans.

This help is delivered through advice, support, advocacy and broad consultation. The Arts Board has shown their ability to achieve excellent results through ongoing advocacy and support with the funding for the Shoalhaven Arts Foundation achieved in the 2022/23 budget.

The Board are asked to focus their efforts on helping Council staff who work with the Arts Board, to achieve their short and long-term strategic goals identified in the DPOP.

These include projects such as:

· The ‘Visioning’ for the development of a new Regional Gallery

· Development of a City Art Collection Strategic Plan

· The continued delivery of the Arts Board Grants

· Working to improve the City Art Collection through strategic acquisitions

· Advocacy for a Creative Economies Strategy

· Supporting and advocating for the work of the cultural and creative Departments

Creative Economies Strategy

The development of a Creative Economy Strategy for the Shoalhaven is a key piece in the long-term strategic aims for the City that requires the support of the Board. This document, when achieved will provide a wholistic and strategic approach for the region, covering areas including community arts and culture, cultural tourism and the opportunities for attracting creative industries to the Shoalhaven to grow and diversify our economy – thereby supporting greater job opportunities and encouraging new residents to the region.

In early 2022, Council submitted an application to the Building Better Regions Fund – Community Investment stream for the work required to develop this strategy. Council have shown their commitment to the creation of this strategy, providing 50% of the required funding in the 2022/23 Financial Year, as required by the grant funding body. We have recently been informed that with the change in government, this program has been withdrawn and no funding is being allocated to the most recent round.

A new program will replace the Fund, however the details are not yet known. Should Board members become aware of funding programs or philanthropic opportunities to secure funds that would enable the development of the Strategy these should be raised with staff via the Board Chair.

The Arts Board are key stakeholder in the development of this Strategy and a Board nominee will be sought as a member of the Project Control Group.

The actions from this strategy will be included within the future years of the DPOP and the annual Resourcing Strategy for Council, with the Board collaborating with staff to deliver specific actions and working with Council to ensure the successful delivery of the Strategy.

The Creative Economy Strategy will replace a stand-alone Arts Board Strategic Plan, align and integrate with Council’s strategic direction and support the Board to confidently progress strategic aims and actions aligned to the Strategy.

Importantly, the Creative Economies Strategy will be developed through extensive community engagement, involving key stakeholders and the wider community. Actions therein will form part of future DPOP’s and be incorporated into Council’s Resourcing Strategy, ensuing alignment and strategic fit with broader community aims and aspirations for the Shoalhaven. These documents are placed on public exhibition annually and submissions are sought from the community on the proposed activities for the next 12 months which inform staff work programs and key project.

Options for progressing the strategy

Given the recent advice noting the withdrawal of the Building Better Regions Fund, and its replacement with a new program there are three ways to progress the development of this important strategy.

1. Wait for advice on the replacement grant program to assess the guidelines and opportunities presented for resubmission of the application

a. This is the preferred way forward and staff will provide an update the Board once further information is received.

2. Reduce the scope of the proposed strategy to meet the budget allocation within the current financial year

a. This option is not recommended at this stage as a reduced scope will not achieve a wholistic and strategic approach for the strategy.

3. Place a hold on the project and resubmit a budget request for the full amount in the next Financial Year

a. This option is not recommended at this stage as there is no guarantee of achieving the current allocation again, or an increased amount.

Community Engagement

The development of the CSP, DPOP and Departmental plans occurs with community engagement, ensuring Council are delivering on the priorities identified by the Community.

The Creative Economy Strategy when developed will include significant community engagement and consultation in the development of the plan.

Financial Implications

Partial funding for the development of the Creative Economy Strategy is allocated within the current operational budget. If matching grant funding is not achieved within the 2022/23 Financial Year there is no guarantee of funding being retained.

A budget bid would be required and be assessed against other projects and infrastructure priorities as part of the development of the DPOP and Resourcing Strategy required for the delivery.

The recommended approach at this stage is to await advice from the Federal Government about the replacement grant program and use the existing funded budget allocation as co-contribution for a new application should the guidelines allow. Staff will provide further advice on this approach as the information is made available.

Shoalhaven Arts Board – Wednesday 09 November 2022

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AB22.59 Shoalhaven City Art Collection - Acquisition of Works

HPERM Ref: D22/447501

Department: Arts & Culture

Approver: Jane Lewis, Director - City Lifestyles

Reason for Report

To inform the Arts Board of the deliberations and recommendations of the Arts Acquisition Sub-Committee for acquisition of works to be added to the Collection in line with Shoalhaven City Art Collection – Acquisition and Management Policy POL22/49.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Arts Board:

1. Accept the work offered for donation by Alison Mackay into the Collection

2. Decline the offer to purchase a work by Danie Mellor at this time.

Options

1. Accept the Recommendation as written.

Implications: The Shoalhaven City Art Collection will grow as per the Policy and the advice of the Art Acquisition Sub-Committee

2. Amend or change the Recommendation.

Implications: Acquisition of works may not be in line with Shoalhaven City Art Collection – Acquisition and Management Policy POL2/49

Background

Artists Alison MacKay and Danie Mellor have offered Shoalhaven City Council the opportunity to acquire works for the City Art Collection. The Arts Acquisition Sub-Committee have considered these offers:

1. Offer of work by donation from Alison Mackay

Alison Mackay is a significant regional artist living and working in the Shoalhaven. She has developed a strong body of work focussing on still life paintings in oils and have shown across Australia, regularly being selected as a finalist in various prizes including the Archibald’s in 2019, the Portia Geach Memorial Award, and was winner of the Gallipoli Art Prize in 2020.

This work is part of a body of work created since the Black Summer fires. The arrangement of different objects and the use of birds is a regular motif in Mackay’s works, with this grouping having a very personal approach to the fires and the impact on humans and native wildlife.

The Shoalhaven Arts Board have already acquired works by Tim Georgeson and Glenn Barkley that respond to the fires, this work complements those pieces as another artistic response to the significant events of 2019/2020.

The proposed acquisition meets the criteria of the Shoalhaven City Council Art Collection under section 3.1.6 under the following considerations:

· Significance of artist

· Local Significance

· Historical / cultural value

· Cost and/or value for money

· Advantageous opportunities

The Arts Acquisition Sub-Committee recommend the donation by Alison Mackay be accepted into the Collection.

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2. Opportunity to purchase work by Danie Mellor

Danie Mellor is a significant first nations artist whose multidisciplinary practise explores the intersections of contemporary and historic culture. His work is held in regional, state and national collections as well as international museums.

Mellor currently lives and works in the Southern Highlands. His works often reference the Australian bush – either that of the Illawarra escarpment and / or the tropical rainforests of the North Queensland area where he was born.

Following his recent redux exhibition at Tolarno Galleries we have been offered the opportunity to purchase a work by Mellor for the collection. (Danie Mellor redux (tolarnogalleries.com))

Redux continues Mellor’s exploration of historical and contemporary narratives told through re-assembled images. In this body of work the images are printed onto polished surfaces ensuring the viewer is reflected in the work and brought into the work – imposing themselves on the landscape and narrative unintentionally.

Mellor produces limited edition photo prints. Each work is limited to a maximum of 3 prints plus 2 Artist Proofs, ensuring that works are not broadly disseminated and that the work maintains a high value.

To purchase a work by Mellor will require use of the arts reserve which currently sits at $41,817. In conversation with Mellor there is the potential of a work being donated through the cultural gifts program alongside the purchase, but which work that may be, has not been discussed.

Available works can be viewed at Tolarno Gallery’s website, and the table below shows the three works in order of preference, suggested by the Acquisition Subcommittee should a purchase go ahead.

While the proposed acquisition meets the criteria of the Shoalhaven City Council Art Collection under section 3.1.6 through ‘significance of the artist’ and ‘advantageous opportunity’, the purchase is not recommended at this time.

The Art Acquisition Sub-Committee were split on their recommendation, but given the proposed direction of the collection strategic plan (as reported in this business paper) and the significant investment required to purchase a work, it was not recommended at this time.

DANIE MELLOR 'Perpetual (ngaray)' 2022

Photographic print on mirror polished stainless steel

121.9 x 160 cm

$28,500.00

Edition of 3 + 2AP

DANIE MELLOR 'Historiography' 2022

Photographic print on milled aluminium

48 x 43 cm

$6,000.00

Edition of 3 + 2AP

Edition 1 SOLD

DANIE MELLOR 'The dream stealer' 2022

Photographic print on mirror finish aluminium

72 x 57.4 cm

$7,500.00

Edition of 3 + 2AP

Edition 1 SOLD
Edition 2 SOLD
Edition 3 SOLD
AP 1 SOLD

Danie Mellor works for consideration

Community Engagement

The City Art Collection is made available to the community through the online collection catalogue, through exhibitions at Shoalhaven Regional Gallery and through placement of suitable works in the Administration building, Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre foyer and other locations as suitable.

Policy Implications

All offers of donation were reviewed against the Shoalhaven City Art Collection – Acquisition and Management policy.

Financial Implications

The Art Acquisition budget and the Reserve has sufficient funds to cover the cost of a work by Danie Mellor should the Board decide to proceed with the acquisition.

The Acquisition budget for 2022/23 is $6,000 with no expenditure to date. The Reserve sits at $41,817.