Three talented NSW emerging musicians have been selected to receive the NSW Government’s Generations Fellowship, offered in partnership with the Powerhouse Museum, and Australian music management and touring company Astral People.
The Generations Fellowship, valued at $150,000 through cash and in-kind assistance, will support Western Sydney artists Clarissa Bock (‘Clarissa Mei’) and Solomon Toala (‘SOLLYY’), and Inner West artists Jonny Hawkins and Juan Villamor who perform together as 700 Feel, with six month’s professional development.
The successful fellows will each receive $25,000 in financial support and $25,000 in-kind support, including access to studio space at Powerhouse Ultimo, industry mentoring and networking facilitated by Astral People.
Annette Pitman, Chief Executive, Create NSW said the fellowship, now in its third year, provides an important career pathway for NSW emerging musicians by connecting them with established industry experts and mentors, and building intergenerational knowledge.
“This investment in the next generation of creative talent provides early career artists the opportunity to gain valuable exposure to the music industry under the guidance and mentorship of industry experts,” Ms Pitman said.
“This career-defining fellowship equips the recipients with skills, industry insights and experience to propel their careers to new heights.”
Lisa Havilah, Chief Executive, Powerhouse Museum said: “Powerhouse is thrilled to be supporting the careers of NSW artists through programs such as the Generations Fellowship. Congratulations to Clarissa Mei, SOLLYY and 700 Feel – we look forward to welcoming you to the Powerhouse.”
Astral People co-founder and director Tom Huggett added, “We’re very happy to be heading into our third year of the Generations Fellowship. We feel so much potential in 700 Feel, Clarissa Mei and SOLLYY and we’re excited to get them working with our entire Astral People team for 2023. All three artists have distinct sounds which really represent where Sydney is heading!”
The Generations Fellowship program is made possible through funding from Create NSW and the Powerhouse Museum and supported by Astral People.
Read more about Create NSW’s Creative Leadership Fellowship program
Image: Generations Fellows: 700 Feel (Juan Villamor & Jonny Hawkins), SOLLYY and Clarissa Mei