The Liberal Government is a strong supporter of the arts in Tasmania.
I am delighted to announce the artists and schools involved in the 2015 Tasmanian Artist in Residence (AiR) program, which offers artists the opportunity to develop their professional practice and gain the assistance of an artistic mentor, while undertaking a supported residency within a school.
The Tasmanian AiR program enriches the school environment by providing students with an insight into a professional arts practice and exposing teachers to new ideas and approaches.
The 2015 program will see eight Tasmanian artists placed in eight public colleges and independent schools around the state:
The Tasmanian AiR program is recognised internationally for its innovativeness and the learnings it offers artists, students and teachers. It is delivered by arts@work in partnership with the Australia Council for the Arts.
Australia Council CEO Tony Grybowski said the Artist in Residence initiative was a highly effective way of building the capacity of artists, and infusing everyday life with arts and culture.
"The Artist in Residence program has a strong track record in strengthening artistic experiences for young people, especially in projects that are built around active participation," Mr Grybowski said.
"In working alongside the high calibre artists selected for the Tasmanian 2015 program, students' artistic practice will grow, and teachers and artists will collaborate across both arts and education, with significant professional development opportunities for both."