The Isle of Man Arts Council is inviting funding applications for the 2017/2018 financial year.

The Arts Council is entirely funded through receipts from sales of National Lottery tickets.

Funding encourages people to enjoy the arts, whether through attendance at or participation in events and activities.

Applicants are invited for bursaries, grants and underwriting which support personal/artistic development, equipment, workshops, performances and events.

Applications for the first round of funding should be submitted by Thursday 16th February for consideration at an Arts Council meeting on Friday 3rd March. However, applications are accepted throughout the year.

For application forms and information, visit www.iomarts.com and click on ‘funding’, email iomartscouncil.dec@gov.im or ring 01624 694598.

As outlined in the Programme for Government, the Arts Council and Culture Vannin will publish a national development strategy for culture and the arts this spring.