As River of Art gears up for another exciting festival in 2017, Member for Bega Andrew Constance has announced that this signature South Coast event has been awarded funding for the next three years under Destination NSW’s Flagship Event Fund.
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“This is a fantastic festival, showcasing our amazing region and I am pleased that the event has received triennial funding of $27,500 per year,” Mr Constance said. “It was great to be able to share the good news with the committee on Saturday and I look forward to seeing what they have installed for our region this year.
“This funding will provide security and certainty to the River of Art Committee as they prepare for this year’s event and look towards future festivals.”
Festival chairwoman Sue Barford said the support from the NSW Government recognised that River of Art is a major tourism drawcard.
“Long-term funding gives our organisation and committed volunteers the backing we need to build the festival’s reputation as one of NSW’s premier regional arts attractions,” she said.
River of Art’s 12th annual festival will present a stellar 10-day program of live music, theatre, film, visual arts, literature, poetry, workshops and cultural experiences. More than 130 activities will be on offer along the far South Coast between Durras and Bermagui from May 19-28.
Kicking off with opening night celebrations in Bodalla and Moruya, festival highlights include stand-up comedy in Batemans Bay, the Wearable Art fashion extravaganza, the art of gardening, and a line-up of free community events.
River of Art is thrilled to partner with Rotary in welcoming the Australian National Busking Championships to the festival in 2017. This will bring a fabulous day of eclectic Australian music, culture and art to Narooma on May 27.
Throughout the 10-day festival, Art on Parade partners artists with local businesses, cafes and shopfronts to showcase the creative talent that thrives in this inspiring region.
This year also sees a record number of open studios - presented in partnership with the Eurobodalla Shire Council - where people can meet practising local artists and craftspeople.
Three back-to-back South Coast Regional Tourism awards celebrate the festival’s success. River of Art has boosted its numbers by more than 10 per cent year on year.
In 2016, the festival attracted 20,000 people and brought more than $3.4 million into the local economy.
Stay tuned for the full program and festival updates - visit www.riverofart.com.au or follow them on Facebook. Mark the dates May 19-28 in your calendar and book a bed if you plan to visit the South Coast in late May. You can look forward to a warm welcome to our inspiring region.
