Artist Anica Gikovska talks how a Hume Arts Grant transformed her work
Published on 03 February 2025
Hume City Council’s Arts Grants Program is on again for 2025 to support artists, creatives and organisations to upskill, develop new projects, and contribute to Hume’s arts and cultural community.
Annual funding for the program supports creators to share their art or heritage practice, whether through new work or developed pieces, and leave a lasting impact on the Hume community.
Melbourne/Naarm based artist Anica Gikovska says becoming a funding recipient under the program took her -creative practice to another level.
“The Arts Grants program has been transformative for my artistic practice.
While I had experience working with various materials, I’d always been curious about ceramics but hadn’t had the chance to explore it. The grant enabled me to take my first steps into ceramics by learning the fundamentals and acquiring essential equipment and materials.”
An early-career artist, Anica encourages those daunted by trying new things, to look for support through an Arts Grant.
“Although I initially felt intimidated by the process, I attended a free grant-writing workshop organised by [the] Council to gain a better understanding.
“This workshop gave me the confidence to apply, and I’m so grateful I did—it has been an incredible opportunity.
“Thanks to the grant, I was able to expand my practice by taking a beginner ceramics course and acquire the tools I needed to start working with clay. While I’m still at the early stages of my journey, this transition has been an exciting and rewarding way to expand my creative horizons.”
If you’re an individual, group or organisation with an idea to deliver impactful art, funding is available for small-scale projects, professional development, or large-scale initiatives.
Grants range from up to $3,000 for Creative Activity Grants to $20,000 for Creative Project Grants. Don’t miss this chance to bring your ideas to life and make your mark in Hume.
Applications are encouraged from diverse and underrepresented sectors, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
To those considering applying, Anica says there’s no reason not to give it a go.
“Go for it—you have nothing to lose! Even if your application isn’t successful the first time, you’ll gain valuable experience in grant writing, which will help you in the future. Take advantage of the free workshops offered by Hume City Council; they’re an excellent resource to guide you through the process.”
“The grant has had such a positive impact on my practice, and I’d encourage anyone with a creative idea to apply. You never know where it might lead.”
Applications for the 2025Arts Grants are open until5pm, Tuesday 11 March at our website.