NEWS RELEASE
SAFEWORD/THE GILBERT CENTRE
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safeword, in collaboration with community partner The Gilbert Centre, are accepting applications for an online arts residency and mentorship program called the 2SLGBTQ+ Arts Jam for queer and trans youth (aged 12-20) living in Simcoe County.
Six young artists will be selected to join an online artistic community to explore their craft, interests, and develop a project on their own through independent and guided activities. Each artist will receive a cash honorarium of $750. The program also includes three public workshops led by inspiring queer and trans guest artists.
The deadline to apply is June 27.
This program has received partial funding from the Ontario Arts Council and a sponsorship from the City of Barrie. In order to raise funds for the remaining amount needed to run the program, Artistic Director of safeword, and Barrie native Brandon Crone (they/them) will be teaching an online workshop called The Artist and Administrator.
The workshop will teach aspiring artists how to harness their administrative skills to create their own opportunities and get paid to make their art. Patrons may attend the live teaching on June 22 or watch a recording of the event on-demand from June 27 to July 10. All proceeds raised will be used to fund the 2SLGBTQ+ Arts Jam.
Queer and trans youth are a vulnerable population in our collective communities and deserve to be celebrated, encouraged, and deeply valued in our visions for a prosperous future. This Pride Month, we’re calling on community members to #UpliftTransKids by sharing and supporting our program however possible.
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