MMUVE IT! - Australia Council announces a new, synthetic world art initiative

The Australia Council for the Arts is offering a grant of up to
$30,000 for a collaborative, embodied art project in a massive
multi-user virtual environment (MMUVE).

The grant aims to provide Australian artists with an opportunity to
creatively and critically explore interactive, virtual worlds, with a
particular focus on the body and interfaces facilitating 'mixed
realities'.

The grant allows for a collaborative team of up to three artists
(including a digital visual media practitioner) to develop an
inter-disciplinary artwork in a MMUVE of their choice.

With more than 73 million participants in online games and social
networking sites such as EverQuest, Legend of Zelda, Second Life and
World of Warcraft (to name but a few), and the recent introduction of
motion-sensitive controllers such as the Wiimote, an opportunity
exists to develop an innovative artwork engaging embodied users in a
highly networked environment.

Applications will only be accepted from teams who fulfil all the
grant requirements, including having the necessary artform
experience. Artists who have professional experience in more than one
artform can include this as part of their submission.

Program purpose

The inter-arts office and the visual arts board of the Australia
Council are offering a collaborating group of Australian artists the
opportunity to create embodied art works in a MMUVE of their choice,
potentially drawing audiences/participants from a large, global
network.

Key requirements of the project are a clear strategy for harnessing
both in-world and 'real life' audiences, engaging the body through an
interface that allows movement, and developing public exhibition
opportunities for the artwork in Australia.

Application closing date

16 May 2008

How to apply

Please visit the MMUVE IT!
initiative page at the Australia Council website and download theapplication form.If you would like to discuss your proposal, please contact:
Ricardo Peach

Ph: (02) 9215 9110 or toll-free: 1800 226 912

Email: r.peach@australiacouncil.gov.au

.

The MMUVE initiative is open to groups of up to three artists who are
Australian citizens or residents. Groups must meet the general
eligibility requirements and provide the required support material.

International artists may collaborate with Australian artists with
support from other sources.

Please pass this information on to anyone who may be interested in
applying.