YOUNG artist Rachael Brennan was ready to take the next step in her creative journey but didn't know how and that's where the Santos Young Artist Bursary came into play.

The Roma on Bungil Gallery Santos Young Artist Bursary has been established to assist young people from the ages of 15-21 years, who live within the Maranoa region of southwest Queensland in pursuing studies in aspects of Visual Arts.

With the 2019 applications now open, Miss Brennan, who was last year's recipient, is encouraging all artists to come forward.

"Receiving this bursary was greatly beneficial, both financially and creatively,” she said.

"By minimising costs of materials I could focus on perfecting my craft and maintaining my personal creative growth all thanks to the support of Santos and the Roma on Bungil Gallery.

"This bursary truly did help me and I am very grateful to have received it when I did. I hope the next person feels the same.”

Roma on Bungil Gallery board members Sandy Macdonald, Sharon Roberts and Jenny Coggan will be part of the assessment panel.

Ms Macdonald said the bursary offers an opportunity to young people in Roma and the Maranoa to approach their arts study, whether it be tertiary or in a short course.

"It's really about engaging kids in the arts and creating more support financially.”

Mrs Coggan said applicants must to do their research and identify exactly what they want to do.

"Come with a plan and show us why you think you deserve it,” she said.

Who can apply?

Young artists aged between 15-21 years within the Maranoa region who meet the following criteria:

Wish to undertake further education and training in the arts.

Need financial assistance to enable them to complete an arts course or workshop.

Live within the Maranoa region.

Value of the bursary

The bursary is worth $2000. Application packages are available by email from the Roma on Bungil Gallery secretary at secretary@ romaonbungil.com.au or downloaded at www.romaonbungil.com.au.

Applications close by 5pm on Friday, October 11.