The national SPARK mentoring program, now in its fifth year is giving young artists the chance to ignite their professional careers.

NSW-based musical composer Gareth Hudson’s SPARK experience is already off to a sizzling start with two of his pop songs recently signed to a US publisher in Los Angeles. Working with his mentor, leading composer Art Phillips, gave him the breakthrough opportunity to take his work to the next level.

‘This is such an exciting opportunity for me to build my musical career. The SPARK program and my association with my mentor have definitely opened new doors for me,’ Gareth said.

As part of his mentorship-program, Gareth will compose the musical score for a new full-length stage musical based on the initial and final voyages of Captain James Cook. He will work closely with Art to receive feedback and analysis of musical scores and demo recordings as he develops the work.

The SPARK program assists 18–26 year olds to break onto the national arts scene, providing support, training, advice and funding for outstanding young and emerging dancers, media artists, theatre makers and artists working with or in communities.

SPARK program manager, Leah Shelton said the mentoring provides young artists with a platform to take their work to new heights.

‘Each young artist chooses their mentor, and develops a professional partnership to expand their networks, develop their skills and raise their profile, giving a national profile to their work,’ she said.

SPARK is the Australia Council for the Arts’ national young and emerging artists’ mentoring program, and is managed and the mentorships facilitated by Youth Arts Queensland.

Applications for the SPARK 2008 program are now open to young and emerging dancers, theatre makers and community-based artists, and close by Friday 28 March 2008.

Media enquiries:

Carla Viola

Tel 0434 310 211