MACKAY Regional Council and the local arts community recently celebrated the launch of Animating Spaces Mackay UP! at Paxton's Creative Space.

Festivals, Events and The Arts portfolio councillor Chris Bonanno said council would host three creative projects on August 28 and 29 as part of the initiative.

"We are very proud to be one of five council areas to receive funding and support through Artslink Queensland as part of Animating Spaces," he said.

"Animating Spaces is designed to revitalise and celebrate significant or unusual spaces within regional communities through locally-driven arts activities and events.

"At the launch we unveiled the three community arts events that will be taking place in Mackay.

"Each event has been designed to encourage people back into the Mackay City Centre and share the common theme "UP".

The projects planned as part of Animating Spaces Mackay UP! include:

• a mural to be painted UPon a levee wall in the wharf precinct of Mackay's City Centre;
• an UP River event featuring large-scale, illuminated lanterns, live music and light projections on the Pioneer River;
• art installations, digital projections and live performances in and around some of the city's historic buildings will have resident looking UP.

Cr Bonanno said the funding couldn't come at a better time.

"Mackay City Centre is the region's principal hub for economic, social and cultural activity," he said.

"Animating Spaces Mackay UP! will help to ensure the public continues to use this area during the revitalisation.

"You may even see a few preparations popping up around town in the coming months, including community workshops and art activities, so keep an eye out."

For more information about Animating Spaces in Mackay, to register your interest or to get involved please contact Community Coordinator Tracey Heathwood on 4961 9563 or email tracey.heathwood@mackay.qld.gov.au