7 May 2024
We’re thrilled to introduce you to the creative entrepreneurs of tomorrow and the participants in our fourth iteration of the Helpmann Academy Creative Innovator Program. This year 18 individuals across 11 different projects – ranging from a social enterprise to motion capture performance, to dance, acrobatics, visual arts, film and an art-folk band – will receive training, mentoring and support in a creative, nurturing environment.
Meet the class of 2024:
- Aiden Van Nielen
- Amelia Walmsley
- Arran Beattie
- Hamish Netting
- Katherine Sortini
- Riley Fraser-Waters
- Samuel Matthewman
- Madison Siegertsz and Tully Templeman of clarice would like a word
- Brittany Gallasch and Christoff Moolman of Shifting Shapes Collective
- Franca Lafosse, Lauren Jones, Luke Furlan and Shant Becker of Rotpunkt
- Samuel Wilson, Thea Martin and Jachin Mee of Wake In Fright
Running since 2021, the program is open to individual creatives or small groups with either an existing project or a burgeoning idea. We will be following our emerging creatives over the next six-months are they go from idea and opportunity, to be given the tools to build a sustainable living from their creative practice… and have the chance to pitch for up to $20,000 cash funding.
Of the program, Amelia Walmsely is hoping to pursue new artistic avenues.
“The Creative Innovator Program means that I will have the opportunity to develop skillsets I currently lack, and delve into the visual arts scene, a world I haven’t really explored yet. Perhaps most importantly though it will allow me to give myself permission to spend time on my painting, as opposed to it being the ‘fun’ thing and always falling by the wayside,” said Amelia.
For Katherine Sortini she sees the real value of the program and the essential role that support plays in early career development.
“Helpmann Academy is an incredible resource for young artists striving to carve out their own space in the creative world. From my perspective, its fundamental role is to nurture and fund emerging talent. When you’re starting out, you have passion but often lack the experience and tools needed to fully realise your vision. This support is crucial; it enables us to learn, grow, and sustain our artistic practices. For anyone passionate about the arts, Helpmann Academy is a vital stepping stone that empowers us to continue creating and innovating,’ said Katherine.
Follow our Creative Innovators journey on Facebook or Instagram.
This program generously supported by our partners and donors. Special thanks and gratitude to Arts South Australia, K&S Langley Fund, Perks Accountants & Wealth Managers and Amanda Harkness & Karen Barrett.
Images: Supplied.