The Rotorua Creative Communities Scheme is seeking applications for funding for local arts projects.

The Creative Communities Scheme (CCS) provides funding to local arts projects so that all New Zealanders can be involved in, support or attend a wide range of events including dance, literature, Māori, crafts, film, music, Pacific arts, theatre and visual arts.

Applications are open until 26 September 2018.

'With just over $25,000 available for new arts projects in the community, this is a fantastic opportunity for locals with an artistic passion to make their dreams a reality,” says local Creative Communities Scheme administrator Julie Parsons.

Artist Maggie Covell received funding in a previous round which meant she was able to engage and give back to the community as part of her project.

With CCS support Maggie created an interactive colouring book featuring women who were trailblazers, innovators, rebels and creative visionaries in history.

Maggie Covell's Fierce Little Handbook of Women A-Z highlights cultural diversity and was designed as an educational device to empower.

'The Creative Communities Scheme funding allowed me to donate 30 books to Ngongotaha Primary School and carry out a workshop with students exploring the art and concepts of the book.”

'The grant also allowed me to get more books printed which meant I could have it on display in art galleries and museums throughout New Zealand”, says Ms Covell.

Maggie Covell's Fierce Little Handbook of Women A-Z is for sale on her website www.maggiecovell.com and was selected by renowned The Dowse Art Gallery (Upper Hutt, Wellington) to be associated with two events and exhibitions they have hosted and be stocked in their shop, which has recently been named best museum shop in New Zealand.

Maggie was also part of the Toi Ohomai graduates art exhibition last November entitled Multiple Threads and then she gave a public talk (2 December) to share her stories around the process with the community.

In the last funding round 16 local arts initiatives received grants with more than $26,000 being distributed, ranging in value from $600 to $4,000.

Successful projects included theatre, kapa haka video, cultural and writing festivals, speech and drama and Aria competitions, along with a wide range of art workshops including felting, glass, ceramics, silver clay and prints.

Applications must be for arts projects which have not yet started and which will be completed within 12 months of receiving funding.

Previous applicants are welcome to apply, but will only be considered if their end-of-project accountability reports have been received.

Applications can be downloaded from www.rotorualakescouncil.nz/creativecommunities and completed applications should be emailed to Julie.parsons@rotorualc.nz by 26 September 2018, or posted or delivered to Julie Parsons at Rotorua Lakes Council, Private Bag 3029, Rotorua, 3046.

For more information go to www.creativenz.govt.nz or contact Julie Parsons.