Supported by YPAA, the Youth Arts Market initiative has been revitalised specifically for Victorian artists and cultural workers.

Understanding that the needs of the Victorian sector will differ to those in Queensland and New South Wales (previous Youth Arts Markets hosts) the latest Market will be moulded by your consultation and input.

The Youth Arts Market will not consist of stagnant market stalls. Instead, it will involve a showcase of arts and cultural work produced for, by or with children and young people of all artforms. It will also involve networking and professional development opportunities such as workshops and forums.

It will attract a diverse audience including all levels of government, venues, producers, educators, peak bodies and non-arts organisations. It will encourage new partnerships across industries, artform areas and regions. It will reveal the quality of emerging and established artists in the state, promote a sophisticated and vibrant youth arts sector in Victoria, and is an important opportunity for youth arts companies across Victoria to connect with each other.

The Youth Arts Market model was first created in 2008 in response to the lack of infrastructure for the youth arts sector to represent themselves at performing arts markets and national showcases.

Best of all, tickets are free and now available! To register for yours, visit the website. It is essential that you RSVP to avoid disappointment. The full program of events is now available so check the YPAA website for more details.

If you haven't done already, members should join the Facebook group to help facilitate progressions of this project. (Victorian participants will be given admin status.)

You can read more about the YAM Model and view the showreel from the 2009 QYAM (created by YPAA member, Markwell Presents) at the Youth Arts Market website.