News

Forged Rhythms, an immersive installation of sound, imagery and poetry inspired by the craft of blacksmithing and the working forge at Tocal Homestead, premiered on Sunday 26 July as part of Peek into the Past. Housed in the heritage Milk Room, the video and sound installation brought together filmmaker Jonathan Burrows, sound artist Huw Jones,…

Our office in Muswellbrook will be closed from Monday 20 to Wednesday 22 July 2026 as John and Sandra are attending training in Sydney. John will be checking his emails rado@artsupperhunter.com.au from time to time. Sandra will not. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding.

Regional Arts NSW has opened applications for two Regional Arts Fund grant rounds: • Regional Arts Fund Project Grants • Regional Arts Fund Quick Response Grants Project Grants supports high-quality arts projects that benefit regional and remote artists, arts workers, audiences and communities. Applicants can apply for up to $30,000 for projects starting in 2027.…

We’re pleased to welcome Bindi Baker to our team. Bindi will manage the Blak Arts Collective Pop Up Shop project. She has a youth-work background and will be working closely with Kemer from the Wanaruah Local Aboriginal Land Council and others across our region. Stay tuned for more news. We are also sad to say…

An acquisitive painting and drawing show. $20,000 prize pool. Wide range of categories. From humble beginnings in 1983, “The Singleton Art Prize” has matured into one of the largest regional art prizes in NSW and one of the most prestigious. The event is organised and operated by the Rotary Club of Singleton on Hunter. In…

For regional artists: professional development, exhibition opportunities or to deepen research with a $10,000 scholarship. Applications close Friday 13 July 2026, midnight AEST. Established in 1997 in memory of the artist Penny Meagher, the emphasis of the Windmill Trust Scholarship is to support visual artists from regional NSW to take up career development and/or presentation…

The Scone & Upper Hunter Historical Society and Museum marked a significant milestone recently, celebrating 70 years of preserving the region’s rich history. A special anniversary luncheon was held on Tuesday 21 April at the Scone Arts and Crafts Hall. The event was officially opened by Dave Layzell MP, Member for Upper Hunter. Guest speaker…

Dungog artist and biodiversity farmer Jane Richens is the 2026 Artist-in-Residence at the Fibre Makers Space, part of the National Trust’s Grossmann & Brough Houses in Maitland. Running through to the end of May, the residency invites visitors to drop into the Open Studio on Mondays and Tuesdays, 10am–3pm. Jane’s work weaves together art, heritage…

We’re pleased to let you know our office is now open again after being closed the past 9 days while plumbing repairs were completed. Please note: we’ll be closed this Monday for the Public Holiday. We’d love to see you—feel free to drop in and say hello. Thanks for your patience and understanding during the…

The 2026 Blue Heeler Film Festival is underway, and the committee is inviting members of the Upper Hunter community to help shape it. As the festival continues to grow, they are keen to work closely with filmmakers and creatives from our region to contribute ideas, perspectives, and expertise to help guide the festival’s direction and…

Pearl has been awarded Best Use of Colour at the Australasian Quilt Convention (AQC), announced at the opening in Melbourne on 9 April. AQC is Australasia’s premier quiltmakers’ event, and 2026 marks its 20th anniversary. Held at Melbourne’s Royal Exhibition Building (Carlton) from 9–12 April, this year’s show featured more than 1,000 submissions from Australia…

NSW artists, producers and arts and cultural organisations can now apply for funding with Create NSW’s 2026 Regional Arts Touring Round 1 and 2026 Arts and Cultural Funding Program (ACFP) Project Funding programs opening today. A total of $4.28 million is available to support local artists and organisations, spanning all artforms, to develop creative practices,…

Our office will be closed for the week while the landlord carries out essential plumbing repairs. During this time, our team will be working remotely and and can be contacted via email and mobile phone. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding.

Regional Arts NSW is now welcoming expressions of interest to join our Board of Directors. This is a skills-based Board, servicing RANSW as a company limited by guarantee. This is a great opportunity for someone looking to make a meaningful contribution to the arts in regional NSW. What’s involved: ➡ Directorships are voluntary, unpaid positions…

Create NSW’s 2025/26 Regional Arts Touring fund is delivering more than $850,000 to support 13 productions and exhibitions to head out on tour to 49 regional communities. Arts Upper Hunter was a successful applicant for our project Alive in the Upper Hunter. Alive In The Upper Hunter will create a touring circuit, connecting shows to community halls,…

We’re pleased to welcome two new part-time staff to Arts Upper Hunter. Haylee will take on the Visuaural program (RAF grant in partnership with Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre and others across the region) while Jenny-Lee will manage the Alive In The Upper Hunter theatre program (Regional Touring grant in partnership with venues across our region).…

Elizabeth Birch, organiser of the Awakening Workshop, has provided us with a report on this very successful quilting workshop. ” What a fantastic weekend we had. Thanks to the Arts Upper Hunter Country Arts Support Program Grant / Micro Grant 2026, we had some funds to put towards the “Awakening” workshop. We were able to book…

The Australian Government is developing a new National Cultural Policy and you’re invited to share your views as part of the national consultation. The new policy will build upon the successful foundations of Revive: a place for every story, a story for every place (Revive). The new policy will address gaps, respond to emerging priorities,…

The Aboriginal Regional Arts Alliance (NSW) is heading back to Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair (DAAF) in 2026 — and they’re inviting artists to come with them. This year they’re taking a small, curated group of artists to represent Regional & Remote NSW on a national stage. 4 selling artist positions available Opportunities to attend, be…

Are you an emerging artist or arts worker living regionally? Do you want inspire others to make positive change? Creative Australia is offering 8 scholarship and mentoring packages for those looking to grow their skills, confidence and networks. Program partners include the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation and Regional Arts Australia. For further details on eligibility…

Calling all NSW and ACT-based performing artists and producers! EOIs to pitch at Arts on Tour’s 2026 Salon are now open! Part arts market and part networking event, Salon is AOT’s key annual industry gathering that builds relationships between artists, producers, and presenters, creating opportunities for touring and partnerships. In 2026, Salon will return to…

Create NSW has released Heartland: A Plan for Regional NSW Arts, Culture and Creative Industries, the first strategy of its kind, celebrating the cultural strength of regional NSW and boosting creative growth across the state. Heartland also introduces two new funding programs now open for applications: ✨ Regional NSW Strategic Partnerships Program 🎵 Regional NSW…

The future of Broke’s much-loved parklands has reached its final stage of consultation, with the community invited to review and comment on the draft Plan of Management for McNamara Park, Stewart McTaggart Park and Herbert Park. Rich in Indigenous and European history and nestled along the banks of Wollombi Brook on Wonnarua, Wanaruah Country, the…

The Survey is a landmark national research project which will build the first comprehensive picture of working conditions across Australia’s creative industries. It will explore workplace issues including pay and working conditions, safety in the workplace, bullying, discrimination and harassment. The Survey is open to anyone aged 18 or over who lives in Australia for…

We’re excited to welcome 2026. Our office at the new location of Shop 7 Campbell’s Corner, 60-82 Bridge St, Muswellbrook is now open and we look forward to working with you.

The board and staff of Arts Upper Hunter wish you a happy, safe and creative festive season. We thank you for your support and look forward to seeing you in the new year. Arts Upper Hunter will be closed Thursday 18 December 2025 and opens on Monday 5 January 2026.  

Two couples who have made a significant contribution to the spirit of Singleton over many decades are the latest inductees to the Wambo Coal Singleton Hall of Fame. In an extra special ceremony at Singleton Civic Centre last night, John and Isabella Bailey and Ron and Joan Stokes were celebrated for their life-long contribution to…

Regional Arts NSW and the participants of the 2024 Work of Art program are pleased to announce that the 2025 Regional Women’s Bursary has been awarded to Laura Baker. Laura is an Australian visual artist working in the medium of paper cutting and was born in the Central West region of NSW. After completing her…

Please note that our office is relocating on Monday, 8 December, and we will also be changing our internet service provider during this time. We expect to be fully operational by Wednesday, 10 December, however there may be delays if the transition takes longer than anticipated. We appreciate your patience. Stay tuned, we will provide…

Recently, students from Scone Grammar took part in workshops with immersive artist Anna Fraser, researching and animating items from the collection at Scone Museum. Using Procreate, students drew and documented stories and objects of interest, including a brass fire helmet, a prickly pear pulper, a remnant of dingo fence, and a buckjumping saddle. The resulting…

Creatives with disability looking to gain professional experience with leading NSW arts, screen and music organisations can now apply for accessible and inclusive internships for 2026. Now open, NSW creative practitioners with disability or who are d/Deaf are invited to apply for a variety of internship roles with 20 host organisations across NSW, including new…

Elizabeth Birch, organiser of the Upper Hunter Quilt Adventure has reported.  “What a wonderful weekend we had for the Quilt Adventure. The weather was perfect. A great variety of stalls in the garden and a very nice morning tea and lunch made by the Wybong Caterers. We had 65 quilts to hang and no two…

Arts On Tour’s just announced the successful applicants for their Back Roads program, touring regional NSW. One production, which Arts Upper Hunter is getting right behind, will be coming especially to our region. Of the three successful applicants, Danielle Brame Whiting’s “Flat Pack” is coming to a space near you! Touring in April 2026, this…

From Federal politicians to reality TV Stars, no celebrity ego is safe from the cockatoo’s judgment! Entries are now open for the 2026 Bald Archy Prize, marking the thirtieth iteration of Australia’s premier satirical portraiture prize. Artists can enter the $10,000 acquisitive prize for the best comic or satirical portrait of an Australian distinguished in…

Immersive arts installation funded by the NSW Government will transform museum experience. A historic lock-up at Scone Museum is set to become a digital storytelling experience, thanks to a NSW Government grant that will transform how visitors engage with local history. The “Time Portal” project will launch in March 2026, coinciding with the 70th birthday…

Not-for-profit organisations, entrepreneurs and businesses with a project to boost economic growth or promote health and wellbeing for the Singleton community are encouraged to apply for Round Five of the Singleton Community and Economic Development Fund. The groundbreaking fund, established in a partnership between Singleton Council, The Bloomfield Group and Glencore to best use VPA…

Create NSW is calling for applications for its first round of 2025-26 Regional Arts Touring Fund, to support homegrown arts and cultural producers eager to take their exceptional shows and exhibitions out on the road to every corner of NSW. Funding up to $60,000 for Small Tours and up to $120,000 for Large Tours is…

Dungog’s Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has hit an impressive milestone. Over 100 babies and toddlers in the Dungog Shire are now receiving a free book each month thanks to the dedicated volunteers and the generous sponsors of Dungog Early Literacy Inc and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library (DPIL). Anne Higgins, Chairperson of the Dungog Early Literacy…

MusicNSW recent announced the first (of five) tour, the Songbird Sessions, featuring the talented Saralyn from Paterson, Upper Hunter. Saralyn is a rising country star. Her music blends heartfelt storytelling with the sonic influences of Stevie Nicks, Lainey Wilson and Dolly Parton. In 2024, she won the Gympie Music Muster Mothertone Talent Search open category,…

Regional Arts NSW and The Windmill Trust are pleased to announce that the 2025 Windmill Trust Scholarship for regional NSW artists has been awarded to Shan Turner-Carroll, currently based in his hometown Lovedale, on the lands of the Wonnarua people. Read more…. Photo: Shan Turner-Carroll “Bodies On A Rock”, 2020, installation, sculpture, video, performance. Photo: MRAG,…

RALLY is a collaborative initiative by Regional Arts NSW (RANSW) and Alex Wisser (co-founder of Cementa Festival), designed to fuel Rural Arts-Led Regeneration by championing creativity, collaboration, and community leadership. The arts play a crucial role in enlivening communities. This is especially true in rural towns, where artists are embedded into the fabric of the…

The Cad Factory (Narrandera) and Brand X (Sydney) are committed to a rural and urban flow of artistic exchange and learning. The Scene Shift residency program gives a regional artist studio space in the Sydney CBD and gives a Sydney artist studio space in rural NSW, creating a meaningful dialogue between the art ecologies of…

Share your story, grow your audience. Are you running events, experiences, or creative offerings in the Upper Hunter? Do you want more visitors to discover what you do? Creative Valleys and Arts Upper Hunter are teaming up with local councils across the region to offer practical workshops, helping you make the most of the Australian…

Applications for Regional Arts Fund (RAF) Project Grants are now open for projects starting in the next calendar year (2026). The Project Grants fund high-quality arts projects benefi tting regional or remote artists, arts workers, audiences and communities. The focus of the project could include any area of creative practice, multiple art forms or cross-disciplinary…

Applications for Regional Arts Fund: Quick Response Grants are open for July 2025. The grant supports immediate need that arises where the activity is unable to be planned for or supported in other funding rounds, for example taking up professional development, skills development or small activity opportunities at short notice. Individuals can apply for up…

The Aboriginal Regional Arts Alliance (ARAA) will be hosting a stall for the very first time at AgQuip 2025, Australia’s largest agricultural event, taking place in Gunnedah from 19–21 August 2025. This is a major opportunity to showcase First Nations artists from Regional and Remote NSW to a new and significant audience of over 100,000…

A significant contingent of NSW Aboriginal artists will be represented for the first time atthe Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair 2025 thanks to the joint efforts of the Aboriginal Culture,Heritage & Arts Association (ACHAA) and the Aboriginal Regional Arts Alliance (ARAA). These sector-leading organisations will bring the vibrant, diverse styles of NSW Aboriginalartists to the national…

Broke has continued its silver streak at the 2025 NSW Top Tourism Town Awards, claiming second prize for the second consecutive year in the Tiny Tourism Town category (population under 1500 residents) announced this week. Mayor of Singleton, Cr Sue Moore said the award reinforced the Broke Fordwich region as a perfect destination for a…

Arts Upper Hunter would like to know if you’ve been impacted by the recent floods that swept the region. Information we collect will be used by Create NSW and Arts Upper Hunter to help develop support where needed. Please contact John on 0409 382 509 or via rado@artsupperhunter.com.au Other support available: Museums & Galleries NSW…

When young Muswellbrook based filmmaker Thomas Ryan decided to change direction from computer science to media production, it wasn’t the result of a single cinematic epiphany. “One day I just woke up and wanted to do filmmaking instead,” he laughs. “I think it started with game design—I loved the stories in those old Nintendo 64…

Audiences and communities across the state will soon benefit from a wave of exciting, vibrant creative projects from NSW artists, creatives and arts and cultural organisations, supported by Create NSW’s flagship arts funding program. More than $7 million from the 2024/25 Arts and Cultural Funding Program (ACFP) Round 1 Project Funding will be delivered to…

Applications close Monday 7 July 2025, midnight AEST. Established in 1997 in memory of the artist Penny Meagher, the emphasis of the Windmill Trust Scholarship is to support visual artists from regional NSW to take up career development and/or presentati on opportunities for their work. The Windmill Trust Scholarship supports artists in various career aspects,…

Are you considering applying to the 2-Year Multi-year Funding round through Create NSW?  (applications NOW close 26 May 2025) Create NSW’s Multi-year funding team is hosting this online session to answer questions from applicants to the 2-Year Multi-vear Funding program WEBINAR DETAILS Webinar on 2-year Multi-year funding • When: 15 April at 11am (via Teams)…

The Board and staff of Arts Upper Hunter welcomes Cr Louise Dunn, our new delegate from the Muswellbrook Shire Council.   Louise has recently retired from teaching at the Muswellbrook Primary School. Over the years Louise has organised Creative Arts Days for schools in the Upper Hunter area and performed in two Muswellbrook Amateur Theatrical…

NSW’s talented artists, creatives and arts and cultural organisations are invited to bring their best creative ideas and apply for Create NSW’s Arts and Cultural Funding Program (ACFP) Projects Round two for 2024/25, now open. Four project funding categories will support both small and large projects across all artforms, career stage and size. Individual artists…

The Gresford Community Gallery’s new exhibition opened on Saturday 15 March 2025, by artist Robyn Werkhoven and Arts Upper Hunter’s John O’Brien. John singled out the high standard of work thoughout the space – with over 20 artists, dozens of works, almost all of a high calibre. Please drop by to view the new exciting exhibition…

Lisa Melichar and Lisa A. Kennedy recently launched their very special children’s book, “There is Time”.  This delightful book, which is iIllustrated by Lisa A. Kennedy, is suitable for 3 – 6 years olds. With themes of simple pleasures, enjoying the moment, focusing on the task at hand, slowing down, mindfulness, appreciation and gratitude, “There is…

The first projects in the development of a public art trail for Singleton have been officially celebrated at a special event at Singleton Arts and Cultural Centre this morning, led by Mayor of Singleton Cr Sue Moore and including talks by the artists. Sunrise and the Eucalypts by artist Ellie Hannon has transformed the New…

Expressions of Interest: Artists and Musicians for a Collaborative Arts Project Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre, in collaboration with the Upper Hunter Conservatorium of Music and Arts Upper Hunter, invites visual artists, sound artists, and musicians to submit proposals for a project exploring the intersection of art and sound. Concept The project is centred around the…

The Recognisably Murrurundi Art Prize is an opportunity to celebrate Murrurundi and the surrounding district – essentially Postcode 2338. Subject matter must be of a recognisable Murrurundi & District and can include a building, person or animal. Best in Show $2000 Prize Money People’s Choice $200 Prize Money For all the details please visit the…

World-class arts and cultural productions and programs keen to hit the road across NSW are invited to apply for the second round of Create NSW’s 2024/25 Regional Arts Touring funding program. Artists, creatives and producers, including individuals and organisations, can apply for up to $60,000 for small-scale tours and up to $120,000 for larger tours,…

Muswellbrook Amateur Theatrical Society Inc has been a major part of the Muswellbrook and Upper Hunter communities since 1960 Their 2025 production is the hilarious musical comedy FIRST DATE. Audition are being held between Thursday 27 February and Sunday 2 March 2025. Bookings are essential. Please note the minimum age for auditions is 18 years.…

The board and staff of Arts Upper Hunter wish you a happy, safe and creative festive season. We thank you for your support and look forward to seeing you in the new year. Arts Upper Hunter will be closed Thursday 19 December 2024 and opens on Monday 20 January 2025.

Create NSW has announced the recipients of Annual Funding for Organisations, with 51 NSW arts and cultural organisations sharing in $7.4 million to deliver diverse arts and cultural programming in the coming year. Communities and audiences across the state will enjoy the exceptional calibre of homegrown creative talent with 51 NSW organisations funded to deliver…

Arts Upper Hunter is pleased to welcome new board member Peter McGill who is the Upper Hunter Shire Council delegate to our board. Peter McGill has worked in the Theatre, Music, Entertainment and Events industry for 49 years, the last 26 as a Pyrotechnician. Peter’s first gig was as Stage Manager on the Marionette Theatre…

Arts Upper Hunter is pleased to welcome new board member Alexandria Carruthers. Alexandria is an elected Councillor and Deputy Mayor of the Dungog Shire Council. Alexandria has a Master of Business Administration and Master of Marketing and just for fun has a Diploma in Graphic Design. She is committed to fostering community engagement, supporting local…

Hunter Writers’ Centre is pleased to announce the 2024 Newcastle Short Story Award is open for submissions. Since 2012, the Newcastle Short Story Award has attracted Australia’s brightest storytelling talent, offering both emerging and established writers the chance to showcase their work. Each year, esteemed judges, skilled in the short story form, shortlist the most…

The state’s artists and audiences are set to benefit with applications now open for a new initiative by the NSW Government that will see small-to-medium, not-for-profit arts and cultural organisations connect with businesses to get their innovative creative-led ideas off the ground. The new Creative Industries – Connectivity initiative will deliver grants of up to…

Individual creative practitioners and arts and cultural organisations in NSW can now apply for funding that better meets their needs with five new Project and Multi-year funding rounds opening today. The newly-designed funding categories, part of Create NSW’s transformed Arts and Cultural Funding Program (ACFP), deliver a key commitment in the NSW Government’s Creative Communities…

My name is Ashlee and I am excited to be sharing with you my creative design business. For the last 10 years I have been a Visual Arts and Photography High School Teacher, I have recently resigned from my position as my passion was starting to fade and I no longer saw myself aligning with…

Community groups and Council Entities are welcome to apply for these long-standing grants. Still a mainstay of regional arts and communities, CASP provides funds to arts and cultural groups, not-for profit-organisations and local councils for short term, locally initiated projects. Schools can’t apply but school P&C’s can, as can museums. A good portion of the…

Lighthouse Arts residencies provide writers, artists and musicians the opportunity to create in an inspiring and elemental environment: the historic lighthouse precinct atop Newcastle’s iconic Nobbys-Whibayganba Headland. Immerse yourself in uninterrupted creative space, away from distraction, and within a community of artists. Open to writers and creatives of all backgrounds, and stages of practice, Lighthouse…

Creative industry organisations invited to host break-through internships for practitioners with disability Applications are now open for NSW arts, music and screen organisations to participate in the 2025 Createability Internship Program and be matched with talented creative practitioners with disability or who are d/Deaf through paid internships. Supported by Create NSW, Screen NSW and Sound…

The Wambo Coal Singleton Hall of Fame is aiming to add the 80th paver to the commemorative walk in the Singleton Civic Centre precinct this year, with nominations open from Friday 6 September 2024. In its 15th year, the Wambo Coal Singleton Hall of Fame recognises those individuals, organisations and families connected to Singleton by…

Exceptional NSW arts and cultural programs and productions eager to hit the road are invited to apply for the first round of Create NSW’s new simpler, fairer and faster Regional Arts Touring fund, now open for applications. Funding in two categories – up to $60,000 for Small Tours and up to $120,000 for Large Tours–…

Arts Upper Hunter is pleased to welcome new board member Rosslyn (Roz) Thomson – community worker, artist and advocate for First Nations. A proud descendant of the Gomeroi people, Roz has grown up on Wonnarua Country. Roz is a talented weaver and artist. She and her sister Tash Kellett were honoured to be a part of the…

Expressions of Interest Close Date Extended until Friday 9 August 2024.  The Muswellbrook Shire Council is seeking expressions of interests for an artist/s to assist students to develop an entry for the EcoStories Competition as outlined below. They are especially interested in artist who can help guide students to develop an artwork. However, students can…

The Basil Sellers Art Prize is an acquisitive biennial award celebrating artistic excellence and supporting creative practitioners. Offering a prize pool of over $30,000 their prize champions 2D artworks in traditional mediums of painting, drawing, and printmaking (unique state). Finalists from across Australia are eligible for the $25,000 acquisitive award generously supported by Mr. Basil…

MusicNSW is looking for tour-ready original artists from across regional NSW that want to connect with other artists, grow new audiences, learn more about touring – and of course – hit the road to play shows! Selected artists will participate in one of five regional tours: South Coast Tour: Featuring First Nations artists only, this…

The board and staff of Arts Upper Hunter welcome Ivan Skaines back to the board. Ivan has been a long-time supporter of AUH. He was a board member from 2019 to 2023 and Chair for two of those years. Ivan was the Acting ED in 2009.   Photo courtesy of Ivan.

The Scone Arts and Crafts have launched a  brand new website https://sconeartsandcrafts.org.au/ The SAC is a vibrant, membership-based community not-for-profit organisation situated in Scone, New South Wales. They are dedicated to the promotion and celebration of local arts and crafts. Through regular workshops, classes, and exhibitions, they encourage creativity and skill development. They also extend their…

Create NSW have overhauled their funding model and system, the Arts & Cultural Funding Program. They’re holding live information sessions and online webinars to explain the new approach and answer questions. There are a lot of questions, including about the changeover period. I strongly urge you to have a look at the changes, some of…

Create NSW is seeking NSW based arts and cultural practitioners that demonstrate strong sector knowledge, strategic thinking, and diversity of experience and expertise. Artform Boards are formal Boards appointed through the NSW Public Service Commission to support the NSW Minister for the Arts to make good funding decisions. Applications close 10 July 2024. For all…

Audiences of all ages, from every corner of the state, will enjoy unforgettable experiences when 17 outstanding performing arts productions and cultural programs head out on tour, thanks to Create NSW’s Regional Arts Touring 2023/24 fund. The world-class productions are set to hit the road to a total of 59 different regional communities from Bellingen…

Singers are encourage to join the Singleton Singers. The group is very excited about an upcoming concert in July with Singleton Town Band They meet on a Tuesday evening at 6pm at the Salvation Army Hall, Singleton and finish on time one hour later. For more information call into a practice session or visit Facebook

Congratulations to local artist Janet Steele on being selected as a finalist for the Australian Textile Art Award for her work “Once a Tree” 106 x 50 x 8cm. Janet Steele’s work is inspired by nature and pays homage to the power of nature. The technique is a wrapping process constructed using double half hitch…

Presented by the Rotary Club of Singleton on Hunter, the 2024 Singleton Art Prize is an aquisitive painting and drawing show. There is a wide range of categories. Entries close Monday 17 June 2024. For all the details including guidelines and entry form please visit https://www.singletonartprize.org/ Image: Taken at 2010 Singleton Art Prize, and courtesy of…

The Academy of Country Music is a professional development initiative of the Country Music Association of Australia (CMAA). Since 1997, The Academy has mentored, supported and contributed to the careers of hundreds of performers from every corner of Australia and New Zealand. They run two in-person programs per year, one for Juniors (U18) and the…

Calling artists, quiltmakers, crafty people, kids, adults, peace activists, people who care… Scone artist Janno McLaughlin, is stitching together a giant patchwork quilt… hoping to cloak the Ukraine in support from the global community. She has put the call out for more patches. Janno say, ” We are still immersed in making our #sunflowerquiltforukraine  to show Ukrainians…

The Regional Arts Network (RAN) consists of 15 Regional Arts Development Organisations including Arts Upper Hunter is hosting the Horizons Creative Industries Career Launchpad project. Horizons is a creative industry mentoring and career development program for NSW regional youth 16-25 years. The project will run over 18 months and will support a total of 75…

Newcastle Writers Festival and major partner University of Newcastle is offering this new course. The four-week course begins in mid-April and will be led by University of Newcastle creative writing academic and poet Dr Keri Glastonbury. The course also includes guest authors Amy Lovat, Kim Mahood and Charlotte Wood, who will participate in a series…

Life Drawing with a Comedian is a show that combines the traditional art of life drawing with some very funny live performance. Arts Upper Hunter is presenting this show in these three fine townships with the participation of three brilliant venues (TBC). Tuesday 26 March – Murrurundi Wednesday 27 March – Muswellbrook Thursday 28 March…

2024 residency applications are now open! Lighthouse Arts residencies provide writers, artists and musicians the opportunity to create in an inspiring and elemental environment: the historic lighthouse precinct atop Newcastle’s iconic Nobbys-Whibayganba Headland. Creative practitioners of all disciplines, stages and backgrounds, whether aspiring, emerging or established, are welcome to apply for a one-week (five days)…

The State’s new policy is very relevant to all of us. Consider the title even: Creative Communities. This is the heart of everything we try to do at AUH. The new policy has few specifics. So, it will be all about the implementation and over the next year the Regional Arts Network and Create NSW…

The board and staff of Arts Upper Hunter wish you a happy, safe and creative festive season. We thank you for your support and look forward to seeing you in the new year. Arts Upper Hunter will be closed Friday 22 December 2023 and opens on Monday 8 January 2024.

Millions of arts and culture lovers and visitors across the state, including regional NSW and Western Sydney, are set to enjoy homegrown arts and cultural experiences thanks to support from Create NSW. Thousands of local artists and creative industry workers will deliver an exciting range of activities and programs, supported through the first round of…

Audiences of all ages in regional NSW and rural areas will soon have more access to the state’s best artistic and cultural productions, with applications for Create NSW’s 2023/24 Regional Arts Touring funding program opening today. NSW artists and cultural producers are invited to apply for funding to tour high-quality programs, experiences and events to…

The Hunter Writers’ Centre is pleased to announce the shortlist for the 2023 Newcastle Short Story Award. After careful consideration, judges Angela Meyer and Winnie Dunn have chosen twenty-nine standout stories for publication in an accompanying anthology. The judges commented on the diverse range of submissions, noting a mix of rural and urban settings, contemporary…

The Board of Arts Upper Hunter celebrated AUH’s 20th anniversary of incorporation with cake! Cutting the cake are Jacqui Bakewell, Acting Chair (left) and Jennifer Lecky, Treasurer. Jennifer was a founding board member of AUH. Other Board members are from left Robert Booth, Michael Tobin and newby Kim Lundy. Attending via zoom were Dan Thompson…

We would love it you decided to … … promote your cultural and arts organisation, venue, community group, creative business, gallery, museum, walking trail and more through the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse. ATDW is quick, easy and FREE to all NSW businesses, community groups, organisations. Arts Upper Hunter is building a website to promote local…

Applications have now CLOSED.    They’re back! And this time you’ll have a whole year to hold your program. Still a mainstay of regional arts and communities, CASP provides grants to arts and cultural groups, not-for profit-organisations and local councils for short term, locally initiated projects. Schools can’t apply but school P&C’s can. So can…

The Hunter Art Storeroom Instagram page is a rejigged version of the Merriwa Gallery Storeroom concept, with a new title, no exhibition attachment component and open to all interested. The idea is that the more artists who promote their works on the page the more it will become a ‘go to’ page for those looking…

“Photos are important in preserving local history. They provide a glimpse into past lives, forgotten places and help shape our understanding of culture and the identity of our community,” she said. “This competition provides a great opportunity to showcase our rich local history and, in theme with History Week this year, Voices from the Past,…

Create NSW is calling artists and cultural organisations, representing all artforms, backgrounds and regions across the state, to apply for the first round of 2023/24 Arts and Cultural Funding Program (ACFP). Create NSW Chief Executive Annette Pitman said while the sector continues to face enormous challenges, this funding will strengthen and support the state’s talented…

Applications are now open for Backroads, with up to $10,000 available to professional productions touring to one or more independent or community-run venues in regional NSW. Backroads aims to support the reach of professional productions to regional towns that do not have professional performing arts infrastructure. The initiative is best suited to compact, adaptable, low…

NSW needs an inclusive, sustainable and ambitious approach to arts and culture. The NSW Government is calling on artists, creative industry practitioners, musicians, organisations and community members to contribute their insights and ideas to inform a new policy. The government is hosting online forums, call for submissions via their website, and hosting forums at town…

Regional Arts NSW is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the Regional Arts Fund (RAF) 2023 The Project Grants will fund high-quality arts projects benefitting regional or remote artists, arts workers, audiences and communities. The focus of the project could include any area of creative practice, multiple art forms or cross-disciplinary practice.…

Music NSW will be supporting 5 tours across NSW – that’s up to 15 artists/groups on the road. Music NSW will guide you through best practices around planning, booking and promoting tours and help you get on the road with support to cover expenses like accommodation, travel, production and marketing and artist fees. This opportunity…

Supporting local businesses to meet the challenges of the ever-evolving Singleton economy is the aim of new event, Reimagine Regional Business. The free, half-day event, to held at the Singleton Civic Centre on Wednesday 9 August 2023 by Council and Business Singleton, is designed to inspire and empower attendees with the tools and support they…

Arts Upper Hunter is pleased to welcome new board members Martha Moderitz and Annie Rogers.   Martha Moderitz  (left) Martha is a practising artist and art educator operating in Newcastle and Singleton. She has been delivering art workshops and working on art projects in the Hunter region since 2021. Prior to this and from 2002,…

Regional Arts NSW is proud to announce Work of Art, a development program for NSW regional women working in creative business; funded by Women NSW. Around 70 regional women will participate in a program of work to help develop skills, strategies, confidence, and connection to help grow their creative enterprise over 17 months in a…

Entries are now open for the 58th Scone Art Prize. Wide range of categories. Total prize pool is $10,000. Click to download an entry form Entries close on 18 August 2023.  

The Hunter Writers’ Centre is delighted to announce entries are now open for Australia’s most significant literary award — the Newcastle Poetry Prize. For over 30 years, the Newcastle Poetry Prize has championed Australian poets and their craft. With a generous prize pool sponsored by the University of Newcastle and a first prize of $15,000,…

If you need support, Hunter New England Health currently have two drop-in mental health clinics open: Singleton Youth Venue, Corner of Bathurst and Pitt streets, Singleton, from 9am; and Branxton Community Centre, 35 Bowen Street Branxton, from 10am. For members of the public who wish to donate money to support survivors and victims’ families, there’s…

Mona Magazine is thrilled to announce the launch of its third print edition, celebrating the art, stories and interviews of 41 regional and rural Australian women. Issue 03 features stunning cover art by Albury artist Dr Jet Driver-o’Keefe and Stanley artist R’Baahn. The third edition of Mona Magazine builds upon the success of its first…

Entries are now open for the 1st National Survey Exhibition of contemporary blacksmithing practice to be hosted by the Glasshouse Regional Gallery, Port Macquarie, from December 2023 – February 2024. This exhibition will be a professionally curated and juried exhibition which celebrates the craftsmanship and creativity of forged ironwork while also recognising the diversity of…

Now in its fifth year, the Australian Photographic Society’s Mullins Conceptual Photography Prize is a national $25,000 acquisitive prize that seeks to find Australia’s best conceptual photographic works. Use this link to enter: https://linktr.ee/Artscentre Entries Close – 19 May 2023 The 2023 Mullins Conceptual Photography Prize is made possible by the Australian Photographic Society in…

The board and staff of Arts Upper Hunter thanked Ivan Skaines, our outgoing Chair and Board Member, at the March meeting. Ivan joined the Board in 2018, was appointed as Deputy Chair in 2020 and Chair in 2021. Ivan has had a long association with AUH. He was even Acting Executive Director for 3 months in…

Would you love to use your communication skills to develop lively content for creative programs in our region? We are seeking a Communications Officer to help develop an active online presence for Arts Upper Hunter’s current programs and changing website. Arts Upper Hunter is the peak body for the arts across the Local Councils of…

We are looking for someone to help develop creative programs for Aboriginal artists and communities in our region. The Aboriginal Arts Officer (AAO) position is an exciting opportunity for someone with connections to community, an interest in the arts and a desire to help make a difference. The right candidate will become a member of…

The Rotary Club of Singleton on Hunter Art Prize announces the Singleton Art Prize is on again and it is their 40th year this year! They are hoping for bumper entries, and have advised it will be a a great year with hopefully some new categories and exciting happenings on the Friday opening night. Entry…

They’re back! For a long time CASP has been a mainstay of regional arts and communities. CASP provides grants to arts and cultural groups, not-for profit-organisations and local councils for short term, locally initiated projects. Schools can’t apply but school P&C’s can. The grants must primarily be used to employ professional artists or cultural workers,…

Last year Scone-based artist Janno McLaughlin set herself the task of sewing & assembling a quilt as big as a house to deliver to the Ukrainian embassy in London then on to Ukraine to be wrapped Christo-like around significant landmarks. More than 9,000 patches have been received from all around the world: an outstanding show…

Arts Upper Hunter (AUH) is one of fifteen not for profit Regional Arts Development Organisations funded by the NSW Government. Servicing the LGAs of Dungog, Singleton, Muswellbrook and Upper Hunter, AUH also receives contributions from these councils. The board meets four to six times a year in various locations or via Zoom. While the position…

Upper Hunter Youth Services, located in Muswellbrook, is an organisation that provides counselling, casework, support and after school youth programs, is after an Art Teacher/Person to lead or facilitate a small workshop for our young people during April 2023 School Holidays, which is also Youth Week 2023. The Workshop will consist of 10-25 young people,…

Thanks to a grant from Regional NSW’s Stronger Country Communities Fund, the Liddell WORKS Creative Residencies program now has more happening! The iconic Liddell Power Station is retiring in April 2023 and, in collaboration with AGL, Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre and others, we have been developing a program to mark the transformation. Now with our…

Liddell WORKS – artist residencies  The iconic Liddell Power Station is shutting down in April 2023 and Arts Upper Hunter, in collaboration with AGL, Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre and others, is developing a creative project called Liddell WORKS.   The core of the project is an innovative program of artist “residencies”, culminating in a major…

The Federal Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, has released Australia’s first national Cultural Policy in almost a decade and it’s worth a read. It’s built around five “pillars”, namely First Nations First; A Place for Every Story; Centrality of the Artist; Strong Cultural Infrastructure; and Engaging the Audience. An intriguing item that will affect…

Hive & Gobbler is a destination hub in Dungog for sharing in creativity, slow-living and sustainability ideas. Sharing knowledge is a focus.  They have a calendar packed with workshops, regular classes and in-store demos. They also cater for group bookings and a range of activities and workshops to suit most group sizes, and can cater for social, corporate or…

The Hunter Writers Centre is seeking a new Director, with the full-time position commencing in February 2023. Applications close January 27, 2023. Apply now at: https://www.seek.com.au/job/59552338   Image courtesy of HWC

Gresford (and East Gresford) are getting into murals. The Gresford Public Art Project is a long term project that will see the development of many public works across the township. The organising committee is looking for mural artists from across the Hunter. If you would like to contribute your details for the project, please get…

This qualification gives you the skills you need to develop your creative practice. You will learn to collaborate on art projects, build your portfolio and create your career as an artist. Information Session on 18 January 2023. This is a full time course, Monday & Tuesday for 18 weeks. Commences Monday 6 February 2023. For…

Arts Upper Hunter has new staff! Three part-time Project Officers are working on a range of projects and sundry activities. (Sundry activities will include talking to you about your art practice and needs, grants, promotions, issues facing artists and communities, and more.) Suzannah Jones brings many years of experience in Regional Arts Development in South…

Minister for the Arts Ben Franklin and Upper Hunter MP Dave Layzell have announced Singleton and Murrurundi will benefit from over $230,000 in funding thanks to the NSW Government’s Creative Capital program. Singleton Council and the Murrurundi Arts & Crafts Council Inc. have two of the 82 projects sharing in a total of $11.7 million…

Community and sporting facilities in the Singleton, Muswellbrook and Upper Hunter council areas are among 13 Upper Hunter Electorate projects which have secured a share of $400,000 funding through the NSW Government’s 2022 Community Building Partnership Program. Member for Upper Hunter Dave Layzell said the State Government funds will deliver much-needed improvements to local facilities…

MusicNSW’s highly-successful Regional Music Officer program is gearing up for its next instalment. Having recently successfully confirmed for four-year funding for the program, MusicNSW is kicking off 2023 with the addition of five regionally-based roles to its team. The five positions will provide on-the-ground tailored support for regional musicians, venues and live music professionals to…

The Scone Grammar School has an exciting opportunity for a Visual Arts Teacher to join their dynamic team to commence 25 January 2023 or at a date to be negotiated. The successful candidate will be able to teach Visual Arts Stage 4-6. This a full-time 12-month contract to cover Maternity Leave. Please visit the link…

The Murrurundi Arts & Crafts recently held two very creative and successful weekend workshops. Agnes Lingane, Secretary of the MACC, provided the following report. Book Binding Workshop: A terrific weekend was had by all on the 19-20 November in learning new skills/techniques or adapting skills to a new craft of making books. It was also…

Along with Muswellbrook Shire Council, who since 1958 has acted as sponsor and administrator of the Muswellbrook Art Prize, Bengalla Mining Company has generously sponsored the Prize for close to three decades, their commitment ensures the development of the Muswellbrook Shire Art Collection. Categories are: * Painting ($50,000 acquisitive) * Works on Paper ($10,000 acquisitive)…

Create NSW is offering grant information sessions to provide artists and arts and cultural organisations with information on the Arts & Cultural Funding Program. Are you an NSW artist, group or arts and cultural organisation? Are you considering applying for round 2 of the Arts & Cultural Funding Program opening on 5 December 2022? This…

AUDITIONS HAVE BEEN POSTPONED. MATS advised due to unexpected circumstances they have had to postpone the auditions. Please visit their website for more details.   The Muswellbrook Amateur Theatrical Society (MATS) are excited to announce their 2023 production, MATS The Musical. A musical showcase celebrating their past, future and theatrical dreams. Featuring many musical classics…

The Merriwa Gallery is calling for workshop facilitators for the Gallery’s back to back workshop block in the 2023 Easter School Holidays. Thursday 13 to Sunday 22 April 2023. Facilitators being sought for kids/adults/mixed aged group or groups. Morning, afternoon or evening. Mixed Media. EOIs accepted until all vacancies filled, otherwise close 28 February 2023…

Artists are invited to respond to an unusual space in the Scone CBD for public mural artwork. Once the well-known Niagara Cafe, 133 Kelly St is now a throughway and amenities area. Several walls offer the chances for treatment through an innovative and engaging approach that speaks to the place, its history, or another theme…

Singleton Council are seeking an Arts and Culture Program Officer, to join their team for 3 days a week, initially for 8 months, but with a view to become more long term for the right candidate! This new role will bring expertise and energy to assist with the development and delivery of an innovative and…

Project Officer / Communications Staff Extended Deadline to Apply – now 9 September! Are you looking for the chance to work for the creative industries in our region? Arts Upper Hunter is seeking people who are keen to be involved in regional arts and culture, working flexible hours. We are looking for multi-skilled people to…

Muswellbrook Shire Council is one of the six councils awarded a share of more than $400,000 through the inaugural round of the NSW Government’s Social Cohesion Grants to support projects aimed at rebuilding, reconnecting and strengthening communities. Council has received almost $60,000 to implement a joint project with Wanaruah Local Aboriginal Land Council – Building…

Applications are now open for artists and arts and cultural organisations to tour their work across regional NSW as part of Create NSW’s Regional Arts Touring Program. Create NSW Interim Chief Executive Annette Pitman said Regional Arts Touring will deliver significant benefits for regional communities. “We want our regional communities to be able to experience…

The Australian Photographic Society (APS) and its Mullins Conceptual Photography Prize (MCPP) is delighted to announce a major sponsor partnership. Already a significant MCPP sponsor in both 2021 and 2022, Bengalla Mining Company Pty. Ltd. has now committed to an annual $15,000 cash sponsorship for the Prize. Advising the MPCC Management Team of this wonderful…

Arts Upper Hunter is seeking feedback from the arts and cultural communities of our region (that covers Dungog, Muswellbrook, Singleton and Upper Hunter council areas) on what professional development opportunities they’d like to see come to their region. Would you benefit from grant writing, website building, or social media workshops? Or perhaps a workshop on…

Arts Upper Hunter would like to know if you’ve been impacted by the recent floods that swept the region. Information we collect will be used by Create NSW and Arts Upper Hunter to help develop support where needed. Please contact John on 0409 382 509 or via rado@artsupperhunter.com.au Other support available: Museums & Galleries NSW …

Singleton Arts and Cultural Centre is going from state-of-the-art to cutting edge within mere months of operation with a $448,600 grant under the NSW Government’s Creative Capital program to support the centre’s fit-out digital activation. Member for Upper Hunter Dave Layzell MP was on hand at the opening of the Rotary Club of Singleton on…

Local councils, not-for-profit organisations and Local Aboriginal Land Councils can now apply for funding to support creative cultural infrastructure projects that improve arts and cultural facilities. This funding is part of the NSW Government’s $72 million Creative Capital program. Minor Works and Equipment grants are available for minor capital works projects, master-planning and equipment including…

Upper Hunter author Paula Stevenson has recently debut her picture book, ‘Buster follows his Nose’. This delightful book has been written for kids 3-7 years. Paula advises, “The book was published by a local publisher in Armidale, Little Pink Dog Books and is available for sale through their website or from any good book store…especially…

Entries are now open for the 57th Scone Art Prize. Wide range of categories. Total prize pool is $10,000. Click to download an entry form Entries close on 12 August 2022.  

Create NSW is calling for applications across NSW to its 2022/23 Artform Advisory Boards. Expressions of interest are encouraged from members of small and medium-sized organisations and major arts companies, and individual practitioners and artists across all artforms, including professional artists, producers, business managers and independent company leaders. Create NSW Interim Chief Executive Annette Pitman…

Here is a message from the Mayor of the Singleton Council. “As extreme weather and flooding again affects our local government area and with evacuation orders in place, I encourage everyone to follow the directions of the SES and emergency services and to keep safe during this time. As usual, we are fortunate to have…

Applications for Regional Arts Fund (RAF) Project Grants are officially open. The Project Grants will fund high-quality arts projects benefiting regional or remote artists, arts workers, audiences and communities. The focus of the project could include any area of creative practice, multiple art forms or cross-disciplinary practice.   There have been some changes to this…

As reported in the June ArtSparks, Scone artist Janno McLaughlin has set herself the task of sewing/assembling a quilt as big as a house to deliver to the Ukrainian embassy in London then on to Ukraine to be wrapped Christo-like around significant landmarks. Janno is asking for people all over Australia (and the world) to get…

Australian artists and arts workers are invited to participate in a research project about the visual arts sector in Australia. Click to commence survey. Visual Arts Work aims to strengthen the sustainability of the Australian visual art industry. We know incomes are low for artists and arts workers and this research seeks to develop a…

The new Merriwa Gallery has excitedly had its first two exhibitions. Both photographic, the first planned over the Festival of the Fleeces weekend, and the second set up for the following week. The FOTF event was a co – exhibition featuring the works of Ellie Matthews’,‘for the love of rust’, and Roger Skinner’s ‘Landscapes et.al’.…

Experienced sector leader Karen Rodgers has been appointed as Director of Arts with Create NSW, a newly created role within the NSW Government’s agency responsible for arts, screen and culture. Ms Rodgers joins Create NSW from the Australia Council for the Arts and will be responsible for overseeing arts and cultural operational funding programs and…

This video was created by Anna Rankmore.   Arts Upper Hunter is supported by Create NSW, Dungog Shire Council Muswellbrook Shire Council Singleton Council and the Upper Hunter Shire Council.

The Gallery, which will be opening soon, is inviting expressions of interest in bookings for a two week exhibition block in the gallery. EOI are being sought by artists/creators from both the Upper Hunter and beyond. Email merriwagallery@gmail.com for details.

Janno McLaughlin is a regional artist based in Scone (3 hours north of Sydney) who has set herself the task of sewing/assembling a quilt as big as a house to deliver to the Ukrainian embassy in London then on to Ukraine to be wrapped Christo-like around a significant landmarks. With hand-stitched squares rolling in from…

Request for Proposal Open The Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) is seeking to engage a suitably experienced artist/s to design and paint a community inspired mural on their signal and communications boxes at Wingen, in the NSW Upper Hunter. They are seeking an artist with a connection to the area or the rail network to…

Current Chair, Howard Glenn recently announced that he and 4 other committee members will not be seeking re-election at the AGM on Sunday 22 May. Howard advised, “It is now time for new people to step up onto the committee. We leave the organisation in a healthy financial position, to continue its dual goals of…

The Scone Literary Festival has announced Cassilis farmer Shelley Piper as the winner of its 2022 Farmers’ Short Story Writing Competition. Shelley’s story was about the 2017 Sir Ivan bushfire that swept through their beef cattle property. Second prize went to Marina Lee-Warner for ‘Life of Brian’, with third prize shared between Bill Moses for…

Upper Hunter artists Grace Barnes and Jane Richens are two of twenty-nine artists from across NSW that have been announced as participants in the state-wide Regional Futures project. Regional Futures is a two-year state-wide creative project funded by Create NSW and delivered by the NSW Regional Arts Network which represents 15 members organisations that support…

The Hunter Valley Art Fair is being held on on the long weekend in June in Pokolbin. Artists and creatives are being invited to be part of this fabulous new event. Dates: 11, 12 and 13 June 2022 Venue:Pokolbin Community Hall Facebook: Website: http://www.huntervalleyartfair.com.au/ For all the details contact Kim Lundy and Suellyn Connelly 0429…

Presented by the Rotary Club of Singleton on Hunter, the 2022 Yancoal Singleton Art Prize is a painting and drawing show. Entries are now open! More please visit http://www.singletononhunterrotary.org.au/singleton-art-prize/  

Are train sets Art? They are certainly creative, theatrical, intricate, often artisanal and aesthetically engrossing. And there’ll be three different ones to visit at the Murrurundi Rail 150th anniversary event on April 2 and 3. It’s a big weekend for the township, with much happening – you can even choo-choo up from Maitland (steam Picnic…

Arts Northern Rivers, one of the Regional Arts Development Organisations in the network Arts Upper Hunter belongs to, has launched a crowdfunding campaign seeking support to assist in the recovery from the catastrophic 2022 floods across the Northern Rivers region. Click here to donate: https://www.pozible.com/project/flood-recovery/ The creative sector across the entire region has collectively suffered…

A Great but Challenging Opportunity We are thrilled to announce an amazing opportunity for one or more artists from the Arts Upper Hunter region to develop new work, in a state-wide project called Regional Futures. Are you interested in collaboration, dialogue, challenging your own artistic practice through working with other artists and non-artists (thinkers, scientists,…

Create NSW is calling for applications for the Beyond the Studio: Early to Mid-Career Dance Fellowship with Sydney Dance Company, Conductor: NSW Orchestral (Early Career) Fellowship with Sydney Youth Orchestras, and the NSW First Nations Creative Fellowship with the State Library of NSW, as they again partner with prestigious arts and cultural organisations to support…

Mark Reedman passed away in early February last year. As a small but heartfelt memorial, we’re asking anyone to contribute a memory or image of Mark on AUH’s Facebook post. Here’s current Executive Director John O’Brien’s contribution: A few months before he died Mark Reedman, my predecessor here at Arts Upper Hunter, asked if I’d…

Are you currently or thinking about operating an Aboriginal Cultural Tourism Business in Regional NSW? or do you simply want to know more about what Cultural Tourism is? This workshop will showcase what Cultural Tourism is and undertake a series of interactive activities that will help you to know more about Cultural Tourism and will…

The Scone Literary Festival committee has made  the following announcement. “We’re is very disappointed to announce today that we’ve had to make major changes to our eagerly anticipated March festival due to the uncertainty and anxiety with COVID. A modified, community-focussed outdoor event is being planned to replace the packed, mostly indoor-focussed three-day program that…

Firstdraft and Metro Arts are now seeking proposals from regionally based NSW artists, for the 2022 exhibition program. An info session will be held on 19 January at 6.30 pm – book here ⁠ Firstdraft and Metro Arts are committed to diversity and strongly support applications from First Peoples, people from culturally and linguistically diverse…

Plan B, anyone?  Nothing is certain, not even art! As for making New Year’s Resolutions, my advice for 2022 is to put a little asterisk next to any resolution you make and mark it “weather/pandemic permitting”. Some internet gurus are advising us to choose different kinds of goals this year – eg “grow my skills”…

Museum Selfie Day invites the general public to go to a museum or gallery, take a selfie and post it on Twitter or Instagram with the hashtag #museumselfieday. The campaign to raise awareness of great collections of work stored in museums, was created in 2015 by Mar Dixon. This painting of Francis Little of Invermien,…

The board and staff of Arts Upper Hunter wish you a happy, safe and creative festive season. We thank you for your support and look forward to seeing you in the new year. Arts Upper Hunter will be closed 22 December 2021 to 4 January 2022. Our Muswellbrook Office re-opens 10 January.

Christmas is approaching and it’s been a heck of a year for many many people. For Arts Upper Hunter, 2021 was truly bittersweet. Let’s look back at this tumultuous year. In February Mark Reedman, a larger than life character in so many ways – that memorable voice, love of theatre, devotion to the communities he…

Next year is coming fast. Reopening is upon us. Some are already creaking open their doors and inviting viewers crowds listeners gawkers in. What are your plans? We’d love to know. Swing us an email telling us what you’re up to. rado@artsupperhunter.com.au Are you a venue with an intriguing program of music starting in, say,…

The Regional Futures project is currently seeking applications from regionally based creatives for three aspects of the project: 1. First Nations Curator – EOI (closes 15 Dec) – click here 2. Brand Identity – Request for Proposals (closes 13 Dec) – click here 3. Website Development – Request for Proposals (closes 13 Dec) – click…

Due to the current rain, flooding and road closures, our office in Muswellbrook is closed today, Friday 26 November. We apologies for any inconvenience this causes. Staff can be contacted by phone, email and PM. John O’Brien, Executive Director, on 0409 382 509 or via email rado@artsupperhunter.com.au Sandra Reichel, Office Manager, on 0481 166 415…

Two individuals and three community organisations have been inducted to the Wambo Coal Singleton Hall of Fame at a special COVID-safe event at Singleton Civic Centre recently. Current Singleton Citizen of the Year and NSW Rural Fire Service stalwart Fred Turner and aunty Jean Hands, the Chair of the Wanaruah Local Aboriginal Lands Council, were…

The Cultural Tourism Accelerator Program is a $5 million targeted measure announced by the Australian Government as part of the Regional Arts Tourism package, which will enable arts organisations to promote and develop cultural events for tourists across regional Australia. The program will increase tourism visitation in regional, rural and remote communities across Australia by…

Dungog by Design wants to boost membership and is inviting artisans residing in the Dungog Shire to apply as exhibiting members. There is a selection process and an enjoyable 6 hour day per month in the gallery is required. Alternatively, if you would like to support Dungog Artisans Inc and be a part of this…

Around mid December, the unvaccinated will join the vaxed in more freedoms. Meanwhile the rusty gears of creative commerce are grinding back into motion. Please, support anything that’s opening, with all due caution, of course. Over the summer, I’d love it if you did some thinking (just drop the novel into the sand for a…

FIrstdraft (Gadigal Land, Sydney) and Metro Arts (Meeanjin, Brisbane) are delighted to announce a new two-year reciprocal partnership supporting two artists living outside of capital cities – one from NSW and another from QLD – to present work across both organisations in 2022 and 2023. The partnership between the two organisations will support the production…

The next instalment in Singleton’s Living Laneways activation program is set to kick off in Tre Bella Lane next month and everyone is encouraged to participate. Launching in December 2021, ‘Acoustic Alley’ is a soundscape experience powered by the University of Newcastle’s Future Art, Science and Technology Lab that invites people to record the sounds…

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer will have overall strategic and operational responsibility for RANSW’s staff, partnerships, programs and growth to ensure that we continue to be the loudest voice in the room as the peak body for artists and arts and cultural organisations located in regional NSW.   RANSW’s CEO…

As work on the new Arts and Cultural Centre pushes ahead, Singleton Council is encouraging local creatives to be part of the newly formed Arts and Culture Advisory Group to help make the local government area the Hunter’s centre of creativity. Meeting at least four times a year, Vicki Brereton, Council’s Director Organisation and Community…

Screenworks is calling for applications to its three Career Pathways Programs which help regional screenwriters, directors and producers make stronger industry connections, build skills and advance their careers. The deadline for applications for each of the programs – Regional Producer Elevator Program, Director Pathways Program and Inside The Writers Room – is Friday 29 October…

Regional Stakeholder Forum 2021 Date: Friday 26 November 2021 Time: 9.00am-1.15pm Location: Webinar Price: Free, booking essential at https://www.maas.museum/event/regional-stakeholder-forum-2021/ Over the past year the way we connect to people and place has changed. Almost overnight, museums shifted their collections, exhibitions, and programming online. Working from home became the norm and, as a result, creative ways…

Audiences and creatives in the Upper Hunter will benefit from an increase to Arts Upper Hunter’s core funding as a result of a funding boost from the NSW Government. Through Create NSW the state government will invest over $3.4 million in the Regional Arts Network in 2021/22 that includes $200,000 per annum to each Regional…

Audiences and creatives in regional NSW will benefit from increased employment opportunities and exciting community initiatives as Regional Arts Development Organisations receive a funding boost from the NSW Government. The NSW Government, through Create NSW, will invest over $3.4 million in the Regional Arts Network in 2021/22 that includes $200,000 per annum to each Regional…

Hiya. What’s it mean to live creatively in a regional place? How do we engage with the land and communities we live in? How do we find support, and support others? How do we spread the word, make our art accessible, find a market, connect, build a career or a hobby that thrills us? We’ve…

Arts Upper Hunter’s phone numbers 6541 4776 and 0409 382 509 have been out of action. The problem has been resolved however at this stage we are unable to access any messages that may be been left in last week or so. Can you please call us if you are waiting for a call back.…

Communities across NSW will benefit from new and improved cultural infrastructure thanks to $60 million available through the NSW Government’s Creative Capital program. Applications for the Creative Capital grants open today (21 September) to address the demand for cultural infrastructure, support the creative economy and improve access for local communities to quality arts venues. Minister…

The NSW Government has announced Stay-at-home restrictions are in place for Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Port Stephens and Cessnock local government areas until 11 October and Muswellbrook local government area until 5 October. For all the details visit NSW Health website. Here is a list of events that have been either cancelled or postponed and…

On the 17 September 2021 the NSW Government announced Dungog, Singleon and Upper Hunter local government areas were released from lockdown imposed due to the COVID-19 situation. Muswellbrook LGA has since been placed into a 7 day lockdown with restrictions due to be lifted on 6 October. Arts Upper Hunter is compiling a list of…

The Paterson Allyn Williams Science Hub held a Masked Ball on Zoom that experimentally proved that you CAN have fun on Zoom. Highlights of the 21 August event included an interview with Dr Karl (who’s favourite plague is the Bubonic, but not for the reason you might think), lots of fun dancing and a wonderful…

Inspo x nature: a free music competition inspired by nature at Callicoma Hill Eco-cabins at Mt Royal, 50km north of Singleton. Can you write & record an original, short piece of music inspired by the natural environment at Callicoma Hill? The comp requires your inspiration to come from either your previous visit to Callicoma Hill,…

John O’Brien, the brand-new Executive Director of Arts Upper Hunter, brings an intriguing slate of skills to the job, with a background in music, film, TV, improvisation, museums, travel writing and community groups. Arts Upper Hunter (AUH) is one of 14 Regional Arts Development Organisations across the state. It’s a key community group for local…

Carlie Brown, Youth and Family Support Worker for Upper Hunter Youth Services said,” Spoonville originated from an idea by Upper Hunter Youth Services Youth Worker, Dennis Givney, after he saw a Spoonville story on the news one evening. During lockdown we have been engaging with our Youth Centre members via Zoom. Dennis thought “Spoonville” would…

The Regional Arts Network (RAN) consists of 14 Regional Arts Development Organisations (RADO) supporting and advocating for arts engagement in Regional NSW. RAN is about to embark on a 2 year Strategic Project (Project) and is seeking expressions of interest for a qualified project manager based in regional NSW. The role will oversee the development…

The Board of Arts Upper Hunter would like to thank Carolyn O’Brien for stepping into the role of Acting Executive Director following the unexpected passing of Mark Reedman earlier in the year. One of Carolyn’s advantages was that as a former Arts Upper Hunter Board Member and someone who had worked locally for many years,…

Support Act has announced that its COVID-19 Crisis Relief Grants are now open to applications for performing arts workers via the website. These one-off cash grants are valued at $2,000 for individuals and $2,700 for families with dependent children and are available to anyone working professionally in the performing arts, provided they meet a set…

Individual artists and small to medium arts and cultural organisations impacted by COVID-19 restrictions will soon be able to apply for COVID Development Grants to support the development of new work. Up to $300,000 in small development grants will be delivered through Create NSW. Minister for the Arts Don Harwin said the grants would provide…

On the 14 August 2021 the NSW Government announced a state-wide lockdown due to the COVID-19 situation. Arts Upper Hunter has compiled a list of upcoming events in our region that have been postponed or cancelled. Please note, this list will be updated as information comes to hand.     Upper Hunter Shire  Aberdeen Highland…

Arts Upper Hunter is continuing to support local artists and cultural organisations. Due to the current COVID-19 situation  AUH has closed the office to the public. Our staff are being supported to work remotely. Please contact staff by phone, email or our social media platforms. Carolyn O’Brien, Acting Executive Director, on 0409 382 509 or…

The Australian Government is providing extra funding to two proven COVID-19 support measures for arts workers and arts companies, with an additional $20 million to go to Support Act and an additional $15 million to go to the Sustainability Fund. This additional funding will enable Support Act to broaden beyond its current support of the…

The NSW Government has announced Stay-at-home restrictions are now in place for Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Port Stephens, Singleton, Dungog, Muswellbrook and Cessnock local government areas from 5pm Thursday 5 August until 12.01am Friday 13 August. For details visit NSW Health website. The Upper Hunter Shire is not in lock down. Here is a list of…

The committee of the Dungog Arts Society regretfully announces the Annual Art Exhibition set down for October 1 to 10 has been postponed.   The Dungog Arts Society is calling for entries for their 2021 Annual Art Exhibition. Total prize pool is $6,500.00 The categories are: Open Cam & Lesley Skinner Traditonal Landscape Local Artist…

There has been some quiet film and screen rumblings on the Coffs Coast – other than Russell Crowe’s new film studio. The Screenwave International Film Festival has just finished its sixth festival, with a touch more than 11,000 festivalgoers converging on the beachside, mountain-hewn holiday town of Coffs Harbour this past April. And now, SWIFF…

Not-for-profit and commercial performing arts organisations, as well as live music venues can now apply for funding to keep the lights on and staff and performers in jobs thanks to the NSW Government’s $75 million stimulus package. The funding forms part of the up to $5.1 billion package announced yesterday to keep businesses in business…

Applications have officially re-opened for the Regional Arts Fund (RAF) Quick Response Grants! These Quick Response Grants are designed to support the immediate needs of regional artists where the activity is unable to be planned for or supported in other funding rounds, for example, access to professional development, skills development or small project opportunities that…

In response to the NSW Government restrictions due to COVID-19, AUH has been advised some art events have been postponed or cancelled and some venues are closing temporarily. This post will be updated as more information comes to hand.   Dungog Shire Dungog Tea Cosy – postponed. Call Pauline on 4992 3692. James Theatre Dungog…

Applications close: Monday 12 July 2021 NSW arts and cultural practitioners, including professional artists, producers, business managers and independent company leaders are invited to submit their expressions of interest for appointment to the 2021/22 Artform Advisory Boards. Successful applicants will join current Board Members on the 10 Artform Advisory Boards and work with the Chairs…

Roger Skinner, one of the artists currently featured at the Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre, recently gave the members of the U3A a guided tour. Roger has provided this image and account of the visit. “It was an arranged visit with members of U3A visiting the Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre, which forms part of their regular…

Anne Fisher from the Bandon Gove School of Arts has advised the Pizza Oven Project has been finalised. The community made tiles for the pizza oven and they are now in place and looking great! Congratulations to everyone who participated. Please visit the Hall on Chichester Dam Road and admire your artwork: Sarah; Anne and…

2021 marks the inaugural year of the Sone Horse Festival – NEIGHbour Art Competition. An idea founded by Scone Horse Festival Committee Member, former teacher and Scone local, Phil McGuirk, to help make up for no festival street parade on this year as well as a fresh approach to the window-dressing competition previously held. Phil…

Arts Upper Hunter has relocated to: Shop 11, 30 to 34 Brook St, Muswellbrook Office is closed and will open Monday 17 May 2021 For urgent matters call 0409 382 509.  

Nominations are now open to recognise the outstanding achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in a special COVID-delayed 2020/2021 Upper Hunter NAIDOC Week Awards. Mayor of Singleton, Cr Sue Moore joined the Chairperson of the Upper Hunter NAIDOC Week Awards Committee aunty Jean Hands and other representatives of committee to officially launch the…

Ivan Skaines, Chair of Arts Upper, interviewed by ABC Newcastle Radio Ivan Skaines has been elected Chair of Arts Upper Hunter (AUH), at the Annual General Meeting held on 1 April 2021. He was previously Vice Chair. Ivan is looking forward to being able to make a contribution to the creativity of the Upper Hunter.…

The NSW Government has announced a new Service Needs Strategic Fund for arts, screen and cultural organisations, to meet the demand for professional development and capacity-building across the sector. $300,000 in targeted support will be made available in 2021 for NSW organisations to provide services, resources, and skills and career development for the arts and…

Entries are now being called for Sculpture on the Farm being held 1st to 10th October 2021. Wide range of categories and prizes. You can submit up to 4 works. This year large sculptures will be at “Fosterton”, 824 Fosterton Road, Fosterton, and smaller sculptures will be displayed in 3 venues in Dungog. For all…

If you operate a live music venue that has suffered financial hardship as a result of COVID-19, you may be eligible for funding from the NSW Government’s Live Music Support package. This funding helps live music venues stay open and create employment opportunities for musicians, promoters and technicians. Eligible businesses can apply for funding to…

The board of Arts Upper Hunter has appointment Carolyn O’Brien as the Acting Executive Director and Anna Rankmore as the Restart Project Officer. Carolyn (left) has been a ‘local’ in the Upper Hunter area for a while, with qualifications in Business Management and Administration, with experience in marketing, event management, audience development, risk management, career…

The impulse to create and collect is innately human and can make life richer, fuller and deeper. And if you have a body of creative work or an interesting collection and are looking for an inclusive space to display your work or collection, the Muswellbrook Library is offering their spacious foyer to you. The Muswellbrook…

Applications close: 17 December 2021, or when fund is fully committed. To support the social and economic recovery of our regions, the NSW Government’s $20 million Regional Events Acceleration Fund helps organisations to attract new major international and domestic events to regional areas and supports existing regional events to grow even bigger and better. The…

It is with great sadness that the board of Arts Upper Hunter brings you the news that our Regional Arts Development Officer & Executive Director Mark Reedman, passed away unexpectedly from a suspected heart attack in early February. Arts Upper Hunter has been advised by Mark’s family that there was a private cremation and Mark’s…

NSW Government has announced that regional and rural arts organisations from around NSW are to benefit from $267,116 in small-grant funding. The Country Arts Support Program (CASP) will fund 83 organisations to support community arts and cultural development. Successful recipients in the Upper Hunter region are: Upper Hunter Community Services Inc Warriors Hip Hop Workshop…