A free, all-ages event will see the entire Carclew site activated with live music and entertainment
Iconic South Australian not-for-profit arts organisation Carclew today announces an official event to mark an incredible 50 years of nurturing the careers of emerging South Australian artists.
Carclew is throwing a free all-ages event on Saturday November 26, 2022 to officially celebrate this significant milestone. Mirroring the official launch event of Carclew back in 1972, the historic North Adelaide heritage-listed site will be activated between 4-10pm with live music and entertainment to showcase the myriad of multi-arts programs that Carclew facilitates and the young creatives the organisation supports through funding and mentorship.
This 50th birthday party is a free all ages event and will be the main drive to encourage public donations for Carclew’s $50 for 50 years campaign, with the goal of raising $50,000 to ensure South Australia’s leading youth arts organisation continues to foster creativity in the state for the next 50 years.
Without investment in the young artists of today there is no arts industry tomorrow.
Donations made online before December 8, 2022 will be matched by Creative Partnerships Australia, which provides dollar-for-dollar matched funding for artists and arts organisations, helping to create a more sustainable and financially supported cultural sector. All donations to Carclew are tax deductible.
Throughout its 50 years, Carclew has been a launch pad for artists and creatives such as 2022 Adelaide Fringe poster artist Mali Isabel and emerging hip-hop artist Elsy Wameyo. The organisation has also facilitated incredible projects, panels and mentorships with the likes of multi-disciplinary artist Dave Court, film and TV writer, celebrated producer and director Sophie Hyde as well as electronic music duo Electric Fields’ enigmatic vocalist Zaachariaha Fielding.
Carclew has carried many stories of success from the artists and creatives that have walked its historic halls, including former Chair of MusicSA and current Artistic Director at Light Cultural Foundation Anne Wiberg who began her career in the arts at Carclew. She states:
“My job at Carclew in 2000 changed my life. It was my first role officially working in the arts after 15 years in youth work. I learnt so much about the value of art practice and the enthusiasm and passion of the artists who I worked with was a joy to be around.”
Currently showcasing at Carclew is the Tutu Karralikanungku Exhibition celebrating 29 years of First Nations programming across schools, communities and emerging First Nation young artists in South Australia.
Carclew’s Chief Executive Tricia Walton said:
“Many people working in the arts and creative industries across Australia today, have received encouragement, professional mentoring and financial support from Carclew for their first steps towards a professional career. Carclew, as a Not-for-Profit organisation, has invested over $5m through project grants, fellowships and scholarships in the critical early years of young artists’ careers. Approximately 100 early career artists have been employed as arts administration trainees undertaking qualifications to kick-start their careers.”
“The [$50 for 50 years campaign] goal is to encourage people in South Australia to donate $50. This will help us secure Carclew’s future to continue to transform young lives for another 50 years. Every donation is matched – through the Creative Partnerships Plus 1 initiative. So, it’s a great time for people to give to Carclew.”
Former Chair of Carclew and long time supporter of the not-for-profit, Jane Doyle said:
“Australia would be a lot less interesting place if founders Marjorie Fitz-Gerald and Dame Ruby Litchfield hadn’t convinced then Premier Don Dunstan to kickstart their dream of a home for young creative people in 1972.”
“Since then, a who’s who of talented Australians have at some time used Carclew to nurture their careers. It was a privilege to share that excitement as Chair and I’m passionate about ensuring this nursery of Australian creativity continues to thrive.”
“The “$50 for 50” campaign gives everyone a chance to ensure Carclew keeps launching creative stars across our national horizon and beyond. Oh, and they throw a great party so don’t miss the shindig on November 26th!”
Carclew’s 50th birthday celebration will take place on-site on 26 November 2022 from 4-10pm (ACST). Entry is free for all patrons and donations are encouraged.
