Regional Arts NSW to manage the Windmill Trust Scholarship for Regional NSW Artists

Media Release

Regional Arts NSW proudly announces it will administer the prestigious Windmill Trust Scholarship for Regional NSW Artists. Established in 1997 in memory of artist Penny Meagher, this $10,000 scholarship aims to support visual artists from regional NSW in developing and presenting their work. Previously administered by the National Association for the Visual Arts (NAVA), the scholarship has supported over 30 artists statewide.

‘Regional NSW is rich with artistic talent and exciting work that needs to be recognised and celebrated,’ said Tracey Callinan, CEO of Regional Arts NSW. ‘The Windmill Trust Scholarship helps this happen, assisting regional artists with career development and opportunities. Regional Arts NSW is proud to be taking on the administration of the scholarship.’

Victoria Weekes from the Windmill Trust said, ‘the Trustees and Management Committee of the Windmill Trust Scholarship are proud of what the scholarship has been able to achieve so far in its 27 year history to support and inspire artists across regional NSW. 

‘We are grateful for the ongoing support and guidance that NAVA has provided for so many years in administering and promoting the scholarship. We are excited about the future of the Windmill Trust Scholarship and look forward to partnering with Regional Arts NSW to continue grow its impact throughout the regions.’ 

Penelope Benton, Executive Director of NAVA said, ‘It has been a delight to administer this career-changing opportunity for so many years. Since its inception, the Windmill Trust Scholarship has provided over $160,000 in funding to support the artistic practices and professional development of regional artists. It plays a critical role in elevating the innovative work and practice emerging from the regions. I am honored to have facilitated this new partnership between the Windmill Trust and Regional Arts NSW and I am excited to see the scholarship grounded within a regionally focused organisation.’

The Windmill Trust Scholarship supports artists in various career aspects, including independent artistic research or practice, professional development, exhibiting and presenting work in new ways. Financial support encompasses studio rental, materials or labor costs, framing, space rental, promotion, artists' fees, freight, installation, and documentation.

About Regional Arts NSW

As the peak body and service agency for arts and cultural development in regional New South Wales (NSW), Regional Arts NSW leads the conversation, encourages collaboration, provides support and celebrates the achievements of the arts and cultural sector in regional NSW.

Windmill Trust Scholarship

Established by Primrose Moss in memory of her sister, artist Penny Meagher, the Windmill Trust Scholarship is an annual award to support regional artists in NSW who face particular difficulties in continuing their professional practice.

About NAVA

The National Association for the Visual Arts is a Membership organisation which brings together the many voices of the contemporary arts sector to improve fundamental conditions of work and practice. NAVA does this through advocacy, education and the Code of Practice for Visual Arts, Craft and Design.

Media enquiries

Leya Reid

e: media@visualarts.net.au 

Image credit

L to R: NAVA Executive Director Penelope Benton, Windmill Trust Management Committee Victoria Weekes, Regional Arts NSW CEO Dr Tracey Callinan OAM. Photo by Edna Boey, 2024.

ID: Three people standing in front of a sandstone wall. They are looking at the camera and smiling.

Regional Arts NSW to manage the Windmill Trust Scholarship for Regional NSW Artists