Kick-start your creative arts practice with Arts Council England

Network and resources 

Freelance : Futures was a call for collective learning and action to build fair and impartial working conditions for freelancers. Through free resources, workshops, panel discussions and virtual gatherings, topics such as sector organising, freelancer rights and organisational transformation along with policy making were explored in detail. We commissioned a freelancer-led consortium to lead this project with the aim of building on existing advocacy, research and campaigning, across culture. The website and resources are a legacy to this project and there is also a dedicated platform for freelancers to use and collaborate with each other.  

Funding for your creative practice

We currently have two main funds open to individuals. National Lottery Project Grants (NLPG) supports thousands of artists and community and cultural organisations. This fund is open on a rolling basis, and you can apply for grants between £1,000 to £100,000. Developing Your Creative Practice fund (DYCP) is available to those who are at least one year out of higher education and it supports individuals who are ready to take their practice to the next stage. You can apply to undertake research, create new work, travel, get training - something that will help you move your creative practice further along. This fund is open for applications four times a year, so keep your eyes peeled and subscribe to our newsletter for updates. 

Unions and opportunities

Unions are a great way of getting your voice heard and needs met. Being a part of a herd as opposed to being isolated can increase influence and create policies that help you as an artist. We have a list of artist unions that you can join as you continue on your creative journey. In terms of opportunities, we have a platform called Arts Jobs and Arts News which serves as a listing site for artists to find paid and voluntary opportunities. Just simply search for your preferences, browse through and if you see something you like, apply!

We hope after reading this, you feel better equipped to enter the world of employment whether it’s freelance, working with an organisation or applying for funding to further your creative practice. Whatever it is you decide to do, we will be here to support you either through our Customer Service team who are available Monday to Friday, 10am-5pm, or through our information sheets.