Ipswich creative industries boosted by action plan
28 April 2022
Developing local careers and capacity building opportunities are the focus of a new council action plan outlining a clear direction to achieve key goals for Ipswich’s arts and cultural communities.
The Creative Industries Action Plan builds on council’s Arts and Cultural Strategy 2018-2023 in consultation with local artists and businesses to support a positive arts and cultural future for Ipswich.
Community, Culture, Arts and Sport Committee Chairperson Councillor Andrew Fechner said the addendum recognises the aspirations of creatives in developing sustainable careers based in Ipswich.
“The Action Plan aims to further develop Ipswich’s creative economy, allowing aspiring creatives to succeed and sets out how to recognise and nurture artistic creativity to harness quality outcomes for the region,” Cr Fechner said.
“The plan incorporates feedback and recommendations from the Creators of Ipswich Report, which included input from more than 100 local artists and creators, reflecting council’s effort to strongly engage with our creative arts community and key stakeholders.
“The result is a tangible, action-oriented approach to support the creative industries through capacity building, upskilling, opportunity creation and networking to empower Ipswich creatives to earn a living here or propel their work and art to customers and audiences beyond our city.
“A thriving creative sector is crucial to Ipswich’s future, and we are excited to be able to collaborate with our creative community, deliver opportunities and celebrate emerging and creative talent.”
Council’s Arts and Cultural Strategy 2018-2023 encompasses all creative disciplines and branches including performing, visual, screen, digital and literary arts as well as cultural heritage collections.
Councillor Fechner said the Action Plan is a tangible approach to ensuring council delivers on the pillars of the strategy to encourage and champion diversity of expression across Ipswich.
“Ipswich is entering an exciting new chapter in its development and council wants arts and culture to be at the heart of our vibrant, active, sustainable and productive city,” Cr Fechner said.
“The region’s arts and cultural scene contributes to our strong sense of community identity and provides social benefits for residents, improves liveability and engages the whole of Ipswich.
“Council is committed to engaging our arts and cultural community and ensure they feel supported so they can craft, create and capture the spirit of Ipswich and share it with the world.”