Sunshine Coast arts festival sets a benchmark

The Horizon Sunshine Coast festival of arts and culture has been showcased by Arts Queensland as an exemplar for other councils and those in the arts/cultural sector.

Sunshine Coast Arts Portfolio Councillor Rick Baberowski said the Arts Queensland case study profiled the Horizon model as a benchmark for other organisations to consider when developing ideas to support, develop and grow the arts and cultural sector.

Councillor Baberowski stated “the overwhelming success of our inaugural Horizon festival and the positive feedback we continue to receive is testament to the delivery model we have developed.

“For this to be acknowledged, and showcased, by Arts Queensland is fantastic.

“It’s a great way to share learnings and insights with other councils and the arts and cultural sector.”

Last year, more than 35,000 people enjoyed the inaugural 10-day Horizon festival, which featured more than 200 events across 16 locations and showcased more than 1000 artists.

The 2016 program included events ranging from contemporary art and new media exhibitions to film, literature, performance, street art and more.

Councillor Baberowski added “Arts Queensland provided some wonderful feedback after our inaugural festival last year, in particular regarding our coordination and marketing of the event.

“They also commented that our strategy of promoting a number of existing events, as well as new smaller events, helped raise the festival’s overall profile which gave us more media attention and increased awareness amongst residents and visitors.”

In 2017, Horizon will be held from 25th August until 3rd September and will once again immerse the region in creativity.

The festival will feature artist-produced events as well as presenting a program of signature events including an inspirational opening, an art trail, the internationally renowned REMIX Summit, public art projects and an unforgettable festival finale.

Arts Queensland, part of the Queensland Department of the Premier and Cabinet, is the State Government agency dedicated to growing a vibrant and sustainable arts and cultural sector.

For more information go to www.horizonfestival.com.au

Images from the Horizon Sunshine Coast festival of arts and culture 2016.

21st March 2017 - AUSSIE WORLD’S THE SHED ENTERTAINMENT VENUE WELCOMES FIRST SELL OUT

23rd February 2016 - APAM 2016 OPENING PLACES BRISBANE ON THE GLOBAL STAGE

10th August 2015 - LONG-TERM CAPITAL WORKS FUNDING APPROVED FOR THE EVENTS CENTRE CALOUNDRA

15th May 2015 - LACK OF GOVERNMENT BACKING FAILS TO HALT BRISBANE INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL