FULL PALETTE OF ARTIST OPPORTUNITIES IN SHELLHARBOUR

Shellharbour City Council is proud to support the thriving local arts community with some exciting upcoming opportunities. These opportunities not only help artists thrive but also contribute to the vibrant and dynamic creative tapestry of our city.

Local creatives are encouraged to apply for Incubator Artist Residencies, a program offering dedicated space, time, and resources to develop new work. Artists can also expand their networks and build valuable connections at the Artist Speed Meet, a fast-paced networking event designed to foster collaboration and inspiration.

Additionally, the popular Art in Unexpected Places public art initiative will continue to bring creative works into unconventional spaces, ensuring that art remains an accessible and integral part of daily life.

"Shellharbour City Council is proud to invest in our local artists and fostering a thriving arts community,” Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer said.

“We want to ensure that artists have the support and space they need to bring their visions to life.”

By creating spaces for artists to grow, collaborate, and share their work, Council is ensuring that creativity remains at the heart of the city. A strong arts sector drives cultural tourism, supports local businesses, and enhances community wellbeing—making the city a more inspiring place to live, work, and visit.

Caption: There are two upcoming Incubator Artist Residencies on offer. Image courtesy of Shellharbour City Council.

More about the Incubator Artist Residency

Expressions of Interest (EOI) are open for the Incubator Artist Residency at the Shellharbour Imaginarium – a creative vibrant space in Shellharbour Village.

Incubator is a short-term residency program providing emerging artists with a dedicated space and time to cultivate new work, explore ideas and develop their practice.

The successful artists receive exclusive access to The Imaginarium during the residency period and $5000 to spend on fees and materials.

Resident artists are given the opportunity to present their final work to the public and will engage with the community during their residences through either a presentation, exhibition, workshop, artist talk, performance or open studio.

“This is an invaluable opportunity for local artists to immerse themselves in the community, be inspired and share their creative passions,’’ Mayor Homer said.

There are two Incubator Artist residencies available, which both run for four weeks and are open to artists and creative practitioners working in any form.

The first residency runs from 4 August to 31 August 2025 and the second residency runs from 7 April to 4 May 2026 (directly following Easter).

Applications for the residences close Monday 31 March. For information on how to apply go to: https://www.shellharbour.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/arts-and-culture/incubator-artist-residency

Caption: It‘s like speed dating for artists to connect. Image courtesy of Shellharbour City Council.

Connect at Shellharbour’s Artist Speed Meet

The Artist Speed Meet is a fun networking event designed to spark collaborations and opportunities within the creative community.

The free event offers a unique platform for artists to meet, exchange ideas, and build valuable industry connections.

Artists are encouraged to bring along a piece of their artwork as a mini show-and-tell experience.

The fast-paced, speed-dating style catchup allows participants to engage in a series of short, structured conversations with fellow artists

In two-minute speaking windows, attendees will be able to introduce themselves, explain their art and share their creative aspirations.

That process will continue until all participants have had the opportunity to meet everyone, and there will also be plenty of time to mingle following the speed meets.

Whether emerging or established, attendees will gain insights, share experiences, and uncover potential opportunities to further their artistic careers.

The Artist Speed Meet is on Wednesday, 2 April, from 5PM to 7PM at the Shellharbour Civic Centre. Bookings are essential: BOOK HERE (Please RSVP by 1 April 2025).

Caption: Art in Unexpected Places. Image courtesy of Shellharbour City Council.

More about Art in Unexpected Places

To have your art considered for future mural projects you can submit an EOI here, while the Art in Unexpected Places program will be showcasing new artwork in May.

“The Art in Unexpected Places program not only provides fresh pops of colour and small moments of joy in places across the city that may not be expected, but it also provides exciting opportunities for artists to showcase their work,” Mayor Homer said.

To find out more about events, exhibitions, opportunities and news about arts and culture around Shellharbour, sign up for the Arts & Culture e-newsletter here.

For more information please contact: Jessica Smith – Shellharbour City Council 0467 250 884 mediaenquiries@shellharbour.nsw.gov.au