Arts Council's £100k fund to mark 60th anniversary

The fund is for new arts events and projects on the Isle of Man

The Isle of Man Arts Council has launched a new £100,000 fund ahead of its 60th anniversary in 2025.

Established in 1965, the organisation aims to encourage residents to enjoy the arts and promote the island’s cultural and artistic identity.

Applications to the Extraordinary Events Fund must be for new and innovative events and projects that have not previously been funded by the council.

Arts Council chairman Sarah Maltby MHK said the body was "excited" to see how the support might inspire our people "to think outside the box and try something new".

"A healthy vibrant creative community and the opportunity for equal access to the arts is key to making our island a wonderful place to live”, she said.

'Take a risk'

The fund has been designed to support innovation by the creation and development of new "audience-centred" events for the island, the council said.

Those applying for a grant have been encouraged to "take a risk" and use their awards to deliver projects that are not typical to a venue, commission new cultural activities or introduce something completely new to the island, it said.

Unlike other existing funding streams, applicants will be permitted to reinvest any excess income into their future events and creative development, it added.

The first round of applications will open on 9 September and close on 18 October, with successful recipients informed after the Arts Council meets in November.

A second round of applications will close on 17 January 2025.

Four public sessions will be held to provide further information on 26 September in between 18:00 and 20:00 BST at the Villa Marina Arcade in Douglas, and at the same time in the Atholl Room at the Peel Centenary Centre on 3 October.

Details of meetings in Ramsey and Port Erin are set to be confirmed later.