What is the Artists Network?
The NL Artists Network is for freelance artists living in, or creative organisations with premises in North Lanarkshire who are looking to connect with like-minded artists, share ideas, access opportunities, collaborate on projects, and strengthen the local creative sector.
Why was the Artists Network set up?
Initially set up in February 2022 linked to “Art is Everywhere” – a AHRC place-based knowledge exchange research project between the University of Edinburgh and North Lanarkshire Council, led by the Arts Development Team. The network was developed to build a better understanding of the creative industry within North Lanarkshire.
Our aim was (and still is) to build stronger working relationships with professional artists and organisations. North Lanarkshire has an abundance of creative activity, and the Arts Development Team wanted to cultivate this network to better serve the communities of North Lanarkshire as well as nurturing the artists working in the authority.
The story so far…
The network kicked off with consultation sessions for both the performing, visual and digital arts. These were led by an impartial facilitator and offered artists and organisations the opportunity to shape what the network would be. It was clear from the outset that even though the artforms of those attending were vastly different, their want and need from a network was very similar. The decision was made to host one collective platform which encompasses the diverse range of artists living and working in North Lanarkshire.
Why sign up?
Member benefits include:
- Access to closed Facebook Group, enabling you to engage with creatives across North Lanarkshire
- Networking opportunities
- Regular newsletters
- Opportunity to spotlight your practice/ organisation
- Access to funding
- Training and upskilling
- Sharing practice
- Better understanding of local arts provision
Join us
Interested in being part of the network and attending one of our events? Sign up by completing this form and someone from the Arts Development Team will be in touch.
Any questions or queries please email arts@northlan.gov.uk with ‘Artists Network Sign Up Query’ in the subject line.
What’s coming up?
Check back soon for information on upcoming events.
Visual Artist and Craft Maker Awards (VACMA)
Arts Development supports the Visual Artist and Craft Maker Awards (VACMA), a funding opportunity for artists from The National Lottery through Creative Scotland. The schemes are delivered by a network of local authorities and arts organisations across the country.
VACMA can support a wide range of activities, including mentoring and skills development, exploring new ideas, experimenting with sustainable and renewable materials, purchasing essential equipment, and undertaking residencies that contribute to an artist’s creative development.
The programme currently offers a £1,000 bursary for artists and makers with over three years’ experience of the public presentation of their work, alongside a £500 early-career bursary for those who have been practising for fewer than three years.
Funding criteria and information about how to apply
To find out more about VACMA email arts@northlan.gov.uk with VACMA in the subject line.
Do you have a question about our Artist Network?
For more information email arts@northlan.gov.uk with the head title “Artist Network Events”.
All sessions are free to network members. Not a member yet? Be sure to sign up!
