The Sunshine Coast Council has allocated over $67,000 in funding to support seven local artists and creative practitioners through the latest round of the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF).

This funding is aimed at enhancing the region's cultural scene and fostering professional growth among artists.

The RADF grants are designed to support innovative artistic projects on the Sunshine Coast.

Among the recipients, Teddy Horton received $9,500 for her project 'Stars Connect', which utilizes generative AI to create projection installations that tell stories from the local manufacturing sector.

'Stars Connect' is a hybrid project that will feature AI-generated video and still images, culminating in a public projection on the Sunshine Coast and an exhibition at Onespace Gallery in Brisbane in 2024.

The grant will facilitate collaboration between Horton and digital media specialist Brian Keayes, focusing on public projections in the Sunshine Coast area.

Other RADF funded projects include Wendy McPhee's 'Reimagining Jean', Louise King's 'Long Listen Festival 2025', Centacare Community Services' 'Home', and Katie Noonan's new music collaboration.

The RADF program has positively impacted over one million people annually across Queensland, contributing to local economic growth and community engagement.

Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek noted that RADF has a strong history of boosting local arts programs and enhancing cultural tourism opportunities across Queensland.

Councillor David Law from the Sunshine Coast Council emphasized that the RADF program is crucial for fostering professional excellence and cultural identity in the region.

Horton has expressed the importance of discussing the implications of generative AI in art, acknowledging her dual role as both a creator and a critic.

The RADF program is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Sunshine Coast Council, aimed at supporting local arts and culture in regional areas.