Have your say on the ‘blueprint’ that guides the region’s vibrant arts scene

01 July 2021

Council is calling on the local arts community and interested residents
to provide feedback on the 2021 draft Public Art Policy and its supporting
Public Art Procedure.

Anchored
by two exceptional regional galleries, the Southern Downs has a vibrant arts
scene which is strongly supported through initiatives such as the Stanthorpe
Art Prize and an annual calendar of diverse community-based festivals
celebrating arts and culture.

Southern
Downs Councillor Marco Gliori is an avid supporter of the arts and believes
that the place-making benefits of public art contributes greatly to a
community’s mental health.

“Cultural
development is an integral part of a community’s identity which contributes to
its growth, wellbeing and cohesion,” Councillor Gliori said.

“We
are living in extraordinary times and people long to find joy and belonging
closer to home where they feel safe and celebrated.

“Public
art enriches our built and natural environments, creates a sense of place and
offers the opportunity to gather knowledge of our cultural heritage.

“And
what a bonus for visitors to our region to gain an enhanced understanding of
our local history and culture through well-placed interpreted public art!”

The
2021 draft Public Art Policy aims to establish Council’s role in arts and
cultural development and will provide a vision and framework through which to identify
key opportunities and strategies to drive public art installation on the
Southern Downs.

“This
policy will be the blueprint that guides Council’s decision-making on the
selection of public art and the strategic allocation of resources and we need
the community’s feedback,” Councillor Gliori said.

The draft Public Art Policy is available on Council’s website under ‘Have Your
Say’ and feedback can be directed to Belinda Armstrong, SDRC Community Services
Coordinator at Belinda.Armstrong@sdrc.qld.gov.au.
Submissions close 5pm Friday 30 July 2021.