Unveiling the Vision: Decisions Shaping the Blackwood River Arts Trail

As the Blackwood River Arts Trail (BRAT) gears up for its 2024 edition, the dedicated committee members and volunteers have been hard at work, making decisions that will define the upcoming artistic journey through the picturesque landscapes of the Blackwood River region. From artists' fees to promotion strategies, and the design of the trail guide, the BRAT team is committed to creating an unforgettable experience for both artists and art enthusiasts.

Empowering Artists: Fee Structure for 2024

One of the critical decisions made during the recent committee meeting was regarding the artist's fees for BRAT 2024. The fee structure was carefully crafted to provide more value to the participating artists, ensuring they can share their talents with a broader audience. Individual artists will pay $150, a fee that includes website access, greater publicity, inclusion in 6000 trail guides, and possible access to subsidized workshops. Artists in groups of two or more will pay $90 per person.

Furthermore, a registration option has been introduced for artists who cannot participate in person but still want to be part of the BRAT community. This registration category, named "Artist (Online Only)," is priced at $60 per year, allowing eligible artists to showcase their work on the website. Artists will have an artist page with their contact information, social media links, artist statement, and images of their artwork, ensuring that even those who can't participate in the trail can remain an integral part of the BRAT experience.

Additionally, a new section for Performance (Arts Groups) was introduced, charged at $200 per group. These will be prominently featured on the 'What else is on' pages, both in the trail guide and on the website, offering performers a unique platform to showcase their craft.

Registration Opened: October 25, 2023

Artists looking to be part of the Blackwood River Arts Trail 2024 were able to register from October 25, 2023. The registration period will remain open until December 1, 2023, allowing artists ample time to join this exciting journey.

Promotion Strategies

A comprehensive promotional strategy is coming together to ensure that BRAT 2024 gets the visibility it deserves. This includes reaching out to past participants through bulk emails and follow-up phone calls by town coordinators. The committee will also run a Facebook ad campaign for Registration. Additionally, posters featuring QR codes and town coordinators' mobile numbers will be distributed.

The Trail Guide

The design of the trail guide and booklet was a topic of discussion, with possibilities of changing the format and exploring options for a thicker, glossy cover. While these decisions are important, they will require further discussion and evaluation and will not be implemented until a cost analysis can be completed. It's always essential to find the right balance between aesthetics and practicality.

Funding and Sponsors

The committee is actively pursuing funding opportunities through grants and sponsors. They've already secured grants from Native Forest Transition (NFT) all local shires and are awaiting outcomes from Regional Arts WA (RAWA) and other funding bodies. On the sponsor front, BRAT has received support from Talison, with further negotiations ongoing with potential sponsors.

Next Steps and Future Meetings

As the committee moves forward with their plans for BRAT 2024, they are committed to transparency and accountability. There are future meetings scheduled, and decisions about policy, association rules, and a detailed task list will be discussed.

The Blackwood River Arts Trail is more than just an event; it's a celebration of art, creativity, and community. Stay tuned for more updates as the trail unfolds and artists, creatives, businesses, and supporters from our region come together to make BRAT 2024 a remarkable success.