Local artists, musicians and educators are being invited to help shape a new creative hub in Glen Innes, with Council calling for expressions of interest in a School of Arts and Music pilot set to launch next month.
The initiative will transform the former Severn Shire Council building on Bourke St into a shared community space for arts, music and creative activity, starting from the week beginning 20 April, in line with the start of Term 2.
Glen Innes Severn Council is seeking local creatives, organisations and businesses to take part in the pilot by running classes, workshops, rehearsals, performances or collaborative projects.
Mayor Margot Davis said the project builds on the region’s strong creative community and puts locals in the driver’s seat.
“We already have a strong and active arts and music sector in Glen Innes. This initiative is about creating the space and opportunity for that community to lead, collaborate and grow. Council is providing the building and enabling the environment, what happens within the space will be driven by those who step forward to use it,” Davis said.
The Council-owned building is currently being repainted and prepared for use, with upgrades funded through existing maintenance budgets. The project focuses on making better use of existing assets rather than delivering new infrastructure.
Rather than running programs, Council will provide the space and support coordination, allowing local people and groups to lead activities and shape how the hub operates.
A community committee will help guide the pilot, which will run for an initial six months. During that time, Council will also explore a digital platform to help users coordinate bookings, communication and participation.
The hub is expected to complement existing organisations and providers, including Glen Innes Arts Council, local schools and the New England Conservatorium of Music, while also creating opportunities for visiting artists and new collaborations.
Activities could include lessons, workshops, masterclasses, rehearsals, small performances and a range of visual and performing arts programs, depending on community interest.
Expressions of interest are now open for individuals and organisations wanting to get involved.
An official opening will be announced soon, giving residents the chance to tour the space and find out how they can participate.
Full details and the expression of interest form are available on Council’s Have Your Say website:
https://haveyoursay.gisc.nsw.gov.au/glen-innes-school-of-arts-music.
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