ETC supports Artwomb to reach more people in the community

The North Coast community is being encouraged to switch on the creative side of their brain, let loose some inhibitions and discover their inner artist.

Thanks to a grant from the ETC Community Support Fund, Artwomb, an initiative by local creative arts organisation Slippry Sirkus Inc, is now equipped to travel across the region giving people an opportunity to play instruments, access paint and canvas.

Artwomb Coordinator Nadine Smith was thrilled with the funding which enabled them to purchase an enclosed trailer, new PA system, laptop and mixing desk.

“This means we can be more mobile – we can pop up at a local festival or a paddock somewhere in an isolated community,” Ms Smith said.

“We have really great instruments that will allow anyone to play their best.

“I believe ArtWomb can be of particular benefit to those in lower socio-economic brackets as our events, generally free to access, give people an opportunity that many in our community simply cannot afford for themselves. ArtWomb is really about making the opportunity to participate in the arts as a creator accessible to all.”

Launched back in 2014, Artwomb is now offering regular events across the North Coast region.

“We aim to provide a safe and comfortable space for people to come together and make art. The idea is simple, get all kinds of art loving folk mixing with artists of different styles, abilities and mediums together in the same space sharing, caring and growing – diamonds sharpening diamonds. ArtWomb brings together a passionate team of talented musicians, poets, gifted painters and MCs to facilitate a space that encourages all to contribute,” Ms Smith said.

Ms Smith said it was heart-warming to see people stepping out of their comfort zones and breaking through boundaries.

“At a recent event at the Nimbin Bush Café we had a father and son perform together – it was the first ever public performance for both of them. The father has 10 guitars at home, but had never performed in front of people and the son is studying music full time,” she said.

ETC Deputy Chair Lorraine Penn said it was a pleasure to be able to support Slippry Sirkus Inc with Artwomb on the Road.

“The ETC Community Support Fund is designed to help organisations reduce disadvantage, generate opportunity, increase support services and/or build capacity in the communities in which we operate,” Ms Penn said.

“ETC is proud to be a not-for-profit company and we are confident the money we are donating will help make a more positive future for our community.

Find out more about Artwomb