Bathurst will be home to a world-class performing arts residency facility thanks to a $4.78 million investment from the NSW Government through the Creative Capital funding program.
Deputy Premier, Minister for Regional NSW and Member for Bathurst Paul Toole said the funding will see the development of a Bathurst Arts Residency NSW (BARN) facility, providing new opportunities for the community to engage in vibrant arts and cultural experiences.
“This is a significant cultural infrastructure project for Bathurst that will shape its future as a destination for arts and culture in NSW and enhance experiences for artists, locals and visitors alike,” Mr Toole said.
“To be built at the picturesque Ben Chifley Dam, the targeted BARN will create a space for regional, metropolitan and international artists to gather and develop their works, complete with on-site group catering facilities and a rehearsal space to perfect performing arts pieces.”
Minister for the Arts Ben Franklin said The BARN will help achieve the NSW Government’s vision for an inclusive and accessible arts sector that supports artists to create vibrant and dynamic work.
“With purpose-built facilities for dance, circus, music and theatre, The BARN will form a critical part of NSW’s creative infrastructure by supporting artists to create innovative new work,” Mr Franklin said.
“Cultural equity is at the heart of the NSW Government’s Creative Capital program and thanks to a $72 million investment, supporting 23 projects– more projects like this can realise their ambitions by providing more people with access to world-class arts and culture, no matter where they live in the state.”
Bathurst Regional Council Mayor Robert Taylor said this is another step in the development of cultural facilities in the region.
“This will be an integral part in the vision to develop a sustainable arts culture in the region and the central west and I thank Minister Ben Franklin and Deputy Premier Paul Toole for the allocation of funding,” Cr Taylor said. Further details on the Creative Capital program are available on the Create NSW website at www.create.nsw.gov.au.
