ARTISTS and community groups are invited to apply for a grant to celebrate the history, stories and diverse cultures of the area.
The High Street Heritage Action Zone programme, run by Reading Borough Council, has £30,000 available.
A pilot scheme has already seen four artists produce work for the area. The new funding will be divided between community groups and professional artists.
Cllr Karen Rowlands, lead for culture, heritage and recreation, hopes that the funding will inspire those who would not normally get involved with art-based projects to take part.
“We’re seeking applications for creative and cultural activities of all kinds, from singing to sculpting, to painters and photographers,” she said.
Three pots of £4,000 are available to share between community groups and artists. The first stage of the application process is a one page expression of interest. The closing date for this is Friday, December 10.
Two further amounts £9,000 are available to professional artists. Those chosen will get additional support from Reading-based arts organisation CultureMix. The deadline for applications is Friday, January 14.
The Council was awarded the money from a joint partnership between Historic England, in partnership with Arts Council England and the National Lottery Heritage Fund which aims to make high streets more vibrant and attractive.
For more information, email: HSHAZ@reading.gov.uk
