ArtStart Grant 2014 - Career fertiliser

Image sourced from artstartgrant.com.au

This year has been a very prosperous year for me. I have recently received an ArtStart Grant to build up my ceramic practice into a proper business.

I found out that I got the grant in late April, but I wanted to wait until the money's in the bank before I write anything about it. Still can't believe I got it!

On the website, artstartgrant.com.au, the grant is described as a career fertiliser, and I totally agree with it! The grant fund is substantial enough, up to $10,000, to help someone trying to set up their career with buying the essentials. I am so fortunate to be living in Australia, where grants like these exist.

For me, receiving this grant means I will be able to set up my own ceramic studio at home! The 4th room in the house will finally be in production in the coming few months, after I get my kiln. The grant is also funding my travel expenses to Indonesia later this year, as a way to further explore my background and heritage. The fund will also help with ongoing costs of promoting my ceramic works, e.g. website, portfolio, etc.

If you're thinking of applying for an ArtStart Grant, the next round closes in September 2014.

Some tips from me when applying:

1. Read up all the information on the website, print it, highlight it, do whatever you can to fully understand the requirements.
   
2. Make an appointment to chat with the Project Officers.
3. Make sure you ask specific questions relating to the Selection Criteria.
4. Make sure your budget's accurate and up to date - get quotes!
5. Read the Assessment Meeting Reports (http://www.australiacouncil.gov.au/grants/grant-decisions/reports/ecapp) - this gives you a lot of information on what the reviewing panel looks for in the applications.
6. Treat the application like as if it's a major project/assessment.
7. Ask the right people for testimonials.

I will be writing heaps on my journey in the next 13 months or so, while I go about ceramic-ing! Till next time.