The Eltham Arts Story Continues

Vicki Ward MP today congratulated Research author, Sofia Laguna for receiving a VicArts grant $15,000 as one of 40 recipients across the state to share in the latest round.

This grant will allow this award winning author to complete her latest novel, Infinite Splendours, a character-driven tale telling the story of Lawrence Loman, a man profoundly damaged in childhood.

Ms Laguna has won over 9 awards for her work including the Miles Franklin Award in 2015 with The Eye of the Sheep. With several publications to her name, our community is lucky to have such a talented writer.

Eltham and surrounding communities have a strong artistic tradition. Drawn by our local natural beauty, artists have been settling in Eltham since the notable member of the Heidelberg School, Walter Withers (1854-1914) and the celebrated writer Alan Marshal, who moved to the Diamond Valley in 1918.

Of course, the Eltham community has been home and inspiration for many of Australia's great artists and intellectuals. One of the most notable local institutions is the Monsalvat arts colony which started with Justus Jörgensen in the 1930s and continues today.

Quote attributable to the Member for Eltham, Vicki Ward MP:

“I loved reading The Eye of the Sheep” and I’m looking forward to reading this book Sofia is currently working on; it is wonderful to have such talent on our doorstep, who is creating such important works”

Quote attributable to the author, Sofia Laguna:

“So pleased and grateful to be the recipient of a Creative Victoria arts grant. It will mean I can complete my novel, a work that has meant so much to me, professionally and personally.”