At the instigation of local arts advocate Emma Barrance, a lively Facebook forum grew into a forum held at the Art Gallery of Ballarat to address issues surrounding the arts in the region. People from a diverse range of backgrounds were invited to “Become a part of a greater voice, for greater access to arts and cultural activity.”
Local leaders spoke on themes and groups formed to brainstorm key issues and areas for action. This was collated into an action plan on the day that promptly developed into this group Ballarat Arts Alive! taking action around various stated concerns, in particular a central online source for information (the ArtsAtlas) and regular artist gatherings to form connections (Art Sparks). Here are some shots of the movers and shakers:
