The inaugural FUSED Celebrate the Arts proved to be a huge success and Ipswich City Council is keen to see it happen again in 2018.
Arts and Community Development Committee Chairperson Cr Kylie Stoneman said the Council-sponsored festival, held from 8-10 September, celebrated the local arts through a range of initiatives, including art workshops, live music, theatre performances, street murals, children’s activities and art exhibitions.
Cr Stoneman said locations used included d’Arcy Doyle Place, Ipswich Library, Ipswich Art Gallery, Ipswich Community Art Gallery, Ipswich Civic Centre, Studio 188, the Old Court House and Goleby’s Basement.
Cr Stoneman congratulated the FUSED committee – a small community-based group of prominent Ipswich artists – for its work to deliver the inaugural festival.
“The FUSED committee’s unwavering passion, effort and dedication was fundamental to the festival’s success – with the committee and stall holders receiving very positive feedback from attendees at the event,” she said.
“Of particular note, was the painting during the festival of a large outdoor mural on the back wall of Arttime Supplies and Goleby’s Basement in the top of town precinct. Transformed over the space of four consecutive working days by Gold Coast artist Mike Shankster, the mural of a soaring owl signifies growth, development and rising above adversities in the spreading of its wings.
“FUSED Celebrate the Arts, Ipswich, provides an opportunity for local artists to elevate their art, gain exposure and recognition, and connect with a wider audience. The three-day program proudly showcased an abundance of Ipswich artists including youth musicians, Ipswich theatre companies, local crafters and visual artists from across Ipswich.”
Cr Stoneman said she was pleased the FUSED committee had committed to deliver the festival in 2018.
“The Community Engagement Branch will continue to support FUSED Celebrate the Arts, Ipswich, including continuing to promote the event via existing Council networks and media platforms, and working with the FUSED Committee to further increase the success and sustainability of the event,” she said.
