From 2021 – 2023 Country Arts SA is partnering with Guildhouse to provide regional visual artists with essential funding and support to further their artistic practice through a meaningful mentorship through their Catapult program.

Artists receive $5,000 to undertake a bespoke learning opportunity guided by a mentor of their choosing. Catapult mentorships allow artists to develop their artistic practice and are tailored by the applicant to suit the needs of their artistic practice and current career goals.

Mentorships have been awarded to a diverse mix of artists across many mediums and focuses, with an ambitious drive to build on existing skills and extend the development and professionalism of practice.

Country Arts SA has supported a number of regional artists through the Catapult mentorship program over 2021 – 2022:

• Kirsten Johnston (Mount Gambier) with Margaret Worth 

• Kristal Mathew (Port Elliot) with Cedric Varcoe 

• Monika Morgenstern (Strathalbyn) with Sasha Grbich

• Orlando Mee (Wallaroo) with Tim Gruchy 

• Heather Kamarra Shearer (Port Augusta) with Dr. Sera Waters

Kristal Matthews (mentee) from Port Elliot: “This mentorship has given me an understanding of a new form of art I wouldn’t have had the opportunity of knowing about beforehand. It’s been great learning more about art and culture, and the importance of both.”

Kirsten Johnston (mentee) from Mount Gambier: “The Catapult opportunity has led directly to my greater vision and hopes (and perhaps audacity!) for my place in the creative sector. I am no longer satisfied with the small scale and perhaps comfortable practice that existed before the mentorship. The opportunity has enlarged my practice in every respect – physical, emotional, intellectual and professional. This has led directly to a growth in what I hope and expect to happen in my career.”

Visit the Guildhouse website to read about past recipients and find out more about CATAPULT, including eligibility, key resources, application criteria and FAQS.

Expressions of interest for the 2023 round of mentorships will open in the first half of 2023. 

Applicants must be members of Guildhouse to be eligible for this opportunity. Follow Country Arts SA and Guildhouse on social media for future updates.