A group of talented arts entrepreneurs, all from Manukau, are working to turn their creative business ideas into reality.

 


ART source, a new development programme aimed at Manukau City’s creative people, has selected five participants for the inaugural programme in 2007:

  • Claire Cowan (Howick): music composer
  • Leilani Kake (Otara): multi-media artist, video and film-maker
  • Terry Koloamatangi Klavenes (Manurewa): visual artist, graphic designer
  • Vela Manusaute (Manurewa): actor, comedian, writer, theatre and music producer
  • Carol Stainton (Wiri): fashion designer

Between now and March next year, ART source is providing them with an individualised programme of development, including mentoring, networking and support, business skills and strategy development.

Vela Manusaute (writer, actor and producer of Once were Samoans and Kila Kokonut Krew’s KTV series) is looking forward to setting up a dedicated screen production house that will take Manukau to the world through film and TV productions. “Here we’re full of rich stories,” he says.

Even though Vela’s already producing sell-out theatre shows and successful music releases, he sees value in being selected.

“It’s fantastic to be enterprising with art, it’s great. I’m able to start making a living out of something I love doing. Being part of the ART source programme is fantastic; to use all the resources Manukau has to offer. It’s another step up to getting to what I want to do.

“We need to get money from our art so we can live. It’s still a long journey away but the striving to succeed is huge,” says Vela.

Developed by the Arts Regional Trust: Te Taumata Toi-a-Iwi (ART) in partnership with Manukau City Council, ART source is a unique programme focusing on the emerging growth of the arts and creative industries in Manukau city.

“The five individuals selected for 2007 are already inspiring in what they’ve achieved so far. They represent a range of backgrounds and creative areas – ranging from classical comosition to multi-media art to comedy,” says Candy Elsmore, ART project director.

“In the selection process, they have demonstrated a passion for their work as  artists and a need to back up their talent with practical business skills and planning support,” she adds.

ART source will be offered again in mid 2008 to a new round of participants.

ART source’s sister programme, ART venture is also well underway. The programme, which targets experienced creative producers who are well advanced with their initiatives, began in March 2007. Recently applications were called for participation in the innovative programme for 2008. Over 30 applications were received from creative people throughout the Auckland region and the selection process is now taking place. 

  • For more information about both the ART source and ART venture programmes, visit www.artsregionaltrust.org.nz
  • In 2007 ASBCT granted the Arts Regional Trust $165,000 toward ART Source and ART Venture project costs.