Actor, writer and director Christopher Carroll has been announced as the 2024 Capital Arts Patrons’ Organisation Fellow. Carroll, who is widely recognized as one of Canberra’s most dynamic and busy actors, will utilize this prestigious fellowship, valued at up to $15,000, to delve into the creation of Crims, an innovative physical theatre production that draws inspiration from the gripping real-life narratives of Sydney’s criminal underbelly during the early 1900s. The fellowship is jointly funded through the sale of generously donated art and business items at the Capital Arts Patrons’ Organisation’s annual fundraising event, ensuring a vibrant infusion of resources for artists.
The Mandy Martin Art & Environment Award was awarded to Erica Secombe, who will channel her creativity into crafting new works that explore the fusion of Laser-Cuts and AI imagery, serving to push the boundaries of contemporary artistic expression. Meanwhile, the Rosalie Gascoigne Memorial Award has been granted to Surya Bajracharya, enabling a pivotal residency at Megalo Print Studio to enhance his artistic development.
Other awards included:
- Sophie Dumaresq won an award to create an animatronic 6-metre-long shark, a remarkable project blending art and technology.
- Rosalind Lemoh won an award to create new contemporary sculpture works in metal and glass, reflecting her innovative approach to materiality.
- Elsa Huber has been funded to make audiovisual recordings of herself singing with an associate pianist, showcasing her vocal artistry.
- Alice van Meurs has funding for a new clothing collection in collaboration with artist Sarrita King, highlighting interdisciplinary creativity in fashion.
- Apeiron Baroque’s John Ma has been helped to fund student guest artists, supporting the next generation of talent in the performing arts.
- The Outstanding Practice Award was won by Sarit Cohen for building plaster cast moulds for larger work, demonstrating technical prowess in sculpture.
- Belinda Jessup won an award for a solo exhibition of machine-embroidered textiles focusing on birds and trees of the ACT, merging nature with textile art.
- Sammy Hawker was given an award to finalize production of new work for upcoming solo shows, marking an exciting phase in his career.
- Kevin Bradley won an award that will go towards the purchase of a CNC router, a significant investment in his artistic tools.
- Two Performance Awards went to Apeiron Baroque and designer Samuel Townsend.
- An award was presented to John Brookes, which will go towards the exhibition Unconditional, promising to deliver powerful artistic messages.
- Nigel Dobson won an award to assist with supporting a three-month residency in Paris in 2025, opening new horizons for his artistic practice.
- The Sculpture Award went to Madisyn Zabel to support Axis, a solo glass exhibition at Woollahra Gallery from April to May 2025, an anticipated showcase of her work.
- The Creative Writing Prize was awarded to Maura Pierlot to support a chapbook, The Archaeology of Loss, a literary endeavor with emotional depth.
- Emerging Artist Awards went to Lesley Andersen for a project encompassing a screen-printed edition of abstract works on paper; Jemina Parker who will develop a contemporary fiction young adult manuscript, Stitch by Stitch; Emily Kerr who will work towards developing advanced technical and artistic skills in residence at Kouraku Kiln in Japan; musician Micah Heathwood; porcelain artist Emily Kerr and artist Sophie Constable.
In a world of spin and confusion, independent journalism remains vital. Your support enables our team to provide accurate and honest reporting from Canberra. Every dollar of support is invested back into our journalism to help keep citynews.com.au strong and free.
Thank you,
Ian Meikle, editor
**Interview with Christopher Carroll, 2024 Capital Arts Patrons’ Organisation Fellow**
**Editor:** Congratulations on being awarded the 2024 Capital Arts Patrons’ Organisation Fellowship, Christopher! How does it feel to receive this recognition?
**Christopher Carroll:** Thank you! It’s an incredible honor, and I feel truly grateful for the opportunity. The fellowship not only validates my work but also provides essential resources to dive deeper into my creative projects.
**Editor:** Can you tell us more about your upcoming production, “Crims”? What inspired you to focus on Sydney’s criminal underbelly?
**Christopher Carroll:** Absolutely! “Crims” is shaped by the rich and often gritty history of Sydney’s underworld in the early 1900s. I’m fascinated by how true crime stories can reveal societal truths and complexities. I want to create a piece that combines compelling narratives with innovative physical theatre techniques.
**Editor:** It sounds riveting! How do you plan to utilize the fellowship funds in bringing “Crims” to life?
**Christopher Carroll:** The fellowship’s financial support will be crucial. I plan to invest in workshop sessions, collaborate with creative artists, and possibly even explore the intersection of technology in theatre production. It’s all about creating an immersive experience for the audience.
**Editor:** You’re known as one of Canberra’s most dynamic actors. How do you balance acting, writing, and directing in your career?
**Christopher Carroll:** It’s a juggling act. Each role feeds into the others; writing helps me understand characters better, while directing enhances my acting. It’s all about maintaining a flexible mindset and carving out time effectively to ensure a harmonious balance among them.
**Editor:** The fellowship is funded through the sale of donated art and business items—what does this mean for the arts community?
**Christopher Carroll:** It shows a strong commitment to supporting the arts, fostering an environment where creativity can flourish. It’s encouraging to see the community come together to fund artistic endeavors, benefiting both emerging and established artists.
**Editor:** what advice would you give to aspiring artists looking to advance their careers in a competitive landscape?
**Christopher Carroll:** Stay true to your voice and never underestimate the power of collaboration. Seek out opportunities like these fellowships, engage with the community, and explore diverse creative avenues. Persistence is key in this industry!
**Editor:** Thank you so much for your insights, Christopher. We can’t wait to see what you create with “Crims”!
**Christopher Carroll:** Thank you! I’m excited to share this journey with everyone.
