Big Inspirations: opportunities for artists

Starcatchers has launched two new opportunities to support early years artist development and explore new ways of connecting with and inspiring young children when face-to-face engagement is not possible.  

Bursaries worth £200 will support professional development for early years artists that can be undertaken within the limitations currently placed on all of us.  

Larger awards of £1000 are also available for artists who would like to create work and explore new ways of engaging little ones who are at home as they play and learn together with their families.  

These initiatives have been introduced as part of Playspace, Starcatchers’ artist development programme, following consultation with artists from across Scotland.  

Starcatchers Chief Executive, Rhona Matheson, said: “We’re committed to supporting artists, and indeed everyone we work with, as much as possible.  

“Through Playspace we had a number of upcoming development opportunities which had to be postponed indefinitely or cancelled and so we’ve diverted some of that resource. 

“Some artists we’ve spoken to do feel ready to create new work. We will never lose sight of the magic that face to face engagement brings but in these extraordinary times we need to explore other ways of engaging young children and their families.  

“Other artists would like to spend some time reflecting on their practice and exploring their own professional development. That’s why we have introduced the two different opportunities.” 

£200 professional development bursary: apply here. Deadline 16th April.

£1000 artist commission: apply here. Deadline 6th May.