About
The Australian Antarctic Arts Fellowship aims to support the production of significant works of art and interpretation by professionals in the creative arts, humanities and social sciences.
The Australian Antarctic Arts Fellowship takes artists and creative professionals to Antarctica to develop creative work that engages diverse audiences.
Artists and creative professionals apply through a competitive selection process.
A fellowship trip to Antarctica could be 2 to 4 weeks duration.
Travel to and from Antarctica, and meals and accommodation while in Antarctica are covered by the fellowship.
Objectives
The Arts Fellowship aims to increase awareness and appreciation of Antarctica, the sub-Antarctic, Southern Ocean and the Australian Antarctic Program. The Fellowship has a focus on communicating, within Australia and internationally:
- activities of the Australian Antarctic Program
- importance of the unique Antarctic and sub-Antarctic natural environment
- human stories and endeavours of Australians in Antarctica
- Australia’s continuing connection with Antarctica and the sub-Antarctic established through its historical presence and legacy
- Australia’s commitment to the Antarctic Treaty and its values of international cooperation, peace, scientific research and environmental protection.
As one of Australia’s most unique residency experiences the Fellowship advances these objectives by enabling artists and creative professionals to travel south to conduct research for the development of creative outcomes.
Communicating through (but not limited to) visual arts, screen and digital, performance, sound, literature and music, Fellows share valuable insight to deepen understanding of the Antarctic region with audiences.
Eligibility
- Applicants must be Australian citizens
- Applications are accepted from practising artists and creative professionals
- Applications can be made by individuals or groups
- Travel to Antarctica must be essential to the project
- Projects must identify with and respond to Antarctica
- Projects must address 2 (two) or more Fellowship objectives.
Artist or creative professional definition
An artist is a person who creates art such as dance works, theatre, music, literature, visual art or experimental art. It is not necessary to earn regular income from your practice. A creative professional is a person who works in the arts such as a cultural practitioner, editor, producer, curator or arts manager.
Application process
The application process occurs in two stages:
- Stage 1 calls for expressions of interest from eligible applicants. Expressions of interest are then shortlisted by an expert panel.
- Stage 2 invites shortlisted applicants to submit a full proposal.
Stage 1: Expressions of interest
Expressions of interest must:
- Outline what you intend to do and why (limit 750 characters – approx. 150 words).
- Explain how your project meets 2 (two) or more Arts Fellowship objectives (limit 2200 characters – approx. 300 words).
- Explain why travel to Antarctica or the sub-Antarctic and developing material in the region is essential to your project (limit 750 characters – approx. 150 words).
- Identify your intended audience and anticipated outcomes (limit 1200 characters – approx. 200 words).
- Demonstrate your capacity to deliver by outlining your relevant experience, skills and ability to achieve the proposed activities and outcomes of your project (limit 1500 characters – approx. 200 words).
You must also include the following supporting documentation with your expression of interest:
- A curriculum vitae (maximum of 2 pages)
- Relevant work examples.
For visual artists - 10 (ten) still images
For writers - 3 (three) written excerpts (maximum of 500 words each)
For performers, musicians, multi-media artists - 3 (three) digital excerpts (maximum of 3mins each).
EOI Information session
To find out more about the Fellowship and making an application attend our online information session on Monday 13 October at 5pm.
Sign up using the form below and you will be sent the instructions to join.
Application timeline
Expressions of interest are open for 4 weeks and must be submitted via the online application form.
Applicants will be advised of the outcome of their EOI within 4-6 weeks of submission. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to submit a full application in Stage 2.
Stage 2: Full application
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to submit a full application which must include:
- A project title
- A project summary that explains the vision, aims and artistic rationale of your project (limit 1300 characters – approx. 250 words).
- A project description that clearly explains your process and approach - what you will do and how you will do it e.g. on-station activities, field trips, interviews, collaborations etc. Outline your anticipated logistical requirements e.g. equipment to be used, locations/sites/personnel you would like access to and preferred duration (limit 3000 characters – approx. 500 words).
- An explanation of the significance of your work within your area of practice and its artistic merit (limit 750 characters – approx. 150 words).
- A detailed description explaining how your project meets 2 (two) or more Arts Fellowship objectives. (limit 2200 characters – approx. 300 words)
- A project plan that details the sequence and timeline for delivery noting key milestones, dates and completion of outcomes. Download template.
- Letters of support from referees/supporting organisations e.g. publisher, gallery, university etc. (maximum of 5).
- Links to additional relevant online content (website, social media etc.)
Selection criteria
The following selection criteria will be used to assess your application. Each criterion is weighted equally.
Awareness and appreciation
How well does your project align with objectives of the Australian Antarctic Arts Fellowship? How does your project promote engagement and increase awareness and appreciation of Antarctica, the sub-Antarctic, and the Australian Antarctic Program?
Originality, innovation and artistic merit
Does your project explore creative, innovative and original concepts? Is your artistic vision and rationale clearly articulated? Does your proposal advance new knowledge and understanding?
Impact and reach
What is the capacity of your project to have impact and engage audiences? Will your proposed outcomes promote engagement and involvement of diverse audiences? Will your project make a substantial contribution to your field of inquiry or beyond?
Feasible and achievable
How appropriate and well thought out is your project? Is your project realistic and achievable within proposed timeframes? Does it take into consideration the challenges of working in Antarctica? Does it show evidence of appropriate research and preparation?
Information for applicants – Australian Antarctic Program
Please note: there is a separate Media Program. All media professionals should apply through this program, not the Arts Fellowship.