Creative grants fuel new work and artistic innovation

Seven local artists and creative practitioners will share more than $67,000 in funding from Sunshine Coast Council’s latest RADF round. 

The supported projects are set to strengthen the region’s cultural scene while helping artists grow professionally.

Stars Connect

Among the recipients is Teddy Horton, who has been awarded $9,500 for her project Stars Connect. Horton’s 2024 generative AI projection installations highlighted little-heard Sunshine Coast manufacturing sector stories.

Stars Connect is a hybrid visual arts project combining AI-generated video and stills with a public projection work on the Sunshine Coast, and an exhibition at Onespace Gallery in Brisbane.

“When it comes to generative AI, as well as being a creator, I see myself as both a fan and a critic,” Horton said.

“I understand people’s concerns with copyright and IP, but I feel there are a lot more conversations for us to have about the pros and cons of the medium.

“This RADF grant is going to make a huge difference for me. I’ll be collaborating with digital media and public projection specialist Mobius (Brian Keayes) to pilot public projections here on the Sunshine Coast.”

Stars Connect builds on Horton’s previous RADF concept development grant, her involvement with Kellie O’Dempsey’s The Path 2024 program, her Emerging Artist Award in the 2024 Queensland Regional Art Awards, and her selection for Sunshine Coast Council’s FutureNOW professional development program. 

Teddy Horton presenting AI-generated projection art for Stars Connect, Sunshine Coast 2025

March 2025 RADF funded projects

Other successful RADF applicants include:

• Wendy McPhee for Reimagining Jean – $9,285
• Louise King for Long Listen Festival 2025 : Global Sounds, Local Heart – $15,000
• Centacare Community Services for Home – $9,200
• Katie Noonan to create new music with Sunshine Coast artists and collaborators – $15,000
• Ketakii Jewson-Brown for mentorship with renowned photographer Katrin Koenning – $4,961
• Hayden Brierley for music recording and promotion – $5,000

The RADF program

Sunshine Coast Council Strong Community Portfolio Councillor David Law said the RADF program continued to play a vital role in fostering professional excellence and regional cultural identity.

“These projects push creative boundaries and reflect the growing professionalism of our region’s creative sector by supporting career-defining opportunities,” Cr Law said.

“This latest round of RADF funding demonstrates how our creative sector is leveraging innovative ideas to build their practice, connect with audiences and activate our public spaces.”

RADF is a partnership between the Queensland Government, through Arts Queensland and Sunshine Coast Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.

Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said RADF had an impressive track record of supporting local arts and cultural programs across Queensland communities.

“The Crisafulli Government’s multi-year RADF investment provides greater funding certainty for 59 regional councils, streamlined program management and red tape reduction, while boosting the state’s vibrant arts and cultural scene,” Minister Langbroek said.

“Each year, RADF programs reach more than one million people across Queensland, securing local arts experiences and cultural tourism opportunities in regional areas, as well as supporting local artists in the lead-up to Brisbane 2032.

“For 34 years, Arts Queensland has partnered with regional councils to co-invest in local arts initiatives that generate jobs, community engagement and help boost local economies. The Crisafulli Government will continue to support these vital collaborations.”

To read more about the grants program and sign up for updates, visit Sunshine Coast Council’s website.