Published: 29 Jul 2020
Distorted Constellations by Nwando Ebizie. Photo by Anya Arnold.
The Unlimited arts programme - which supports the development of exceptional new work from disabled artists - has published their Fund guidance ahead of an application open date of Thursday 1 October 2020.
The programme supports disabled artists to develop their practice and to form new relationships and collaborations with producers, venues and promoters. It also aims to increase distribution of work (through touring, including international touring, and digital iterations) affording greater opportunities for audiences to see some of the very best work from disabled artists across the UK and internationally.
Backed by The National Lottery and in partnership with Creative Scotland, Arts Council England and Arts Council of Wales, a total of £500,000 will be available to individuals working across the cultural spectrum. Full details of the Unlimited programme and eligibility criteria can be found over on the Unlimited website.
Deborah Chadbourn, Artsadmin said: "It's great to see Creative Scotland's investment in the Unlimited programme at this crucial time when now, more than ever, disabled artists need meaningful opportunities to make the wonderful, inspiring, beautiful and challenging work that helps us all see the world in a different way. The Unlimited programme, Artsadmin and Shape support artists to work across boundaries, whether geographic or imposed by society; Creative Scotland is a fantastic partner to have in that endeavour."
David Heavey, Shape Arts said: "Unlimited continues to lead the way in the cultural industries. The announcement of further opportunities for groundbreaking disabled artists is a moment worthy of celebration and a moment that Shape are proud to play a part in. We look forward to the talent that is sure to follow!"
Jo Verrent, Senior Producer of Unlimited said: "Having Creative Scotland linked back in with Unlimited is vital - not only is Scotland home to some incredible disabled talent, but working in close partnership is now more important than ever, given the impact of Covid-19 on disabled communities. We look forward to engaging with artists and allies from every corner of Scotland from the islands to the cities, seeding stunning work across all artforms."
Milica Milosevic, Head of EDI at Creative Scotland said: “We are delighted to offer new voices and emerging talent in the disabled artist community in Scotland, the opportunity to develop their creative practice through this hugely successful commissioning partnership. Unlimited is the largest supporter of disabled arts worldwide who’s mentorship of their selected artists is often a gamechanger for their careers. Our investment of £120K over 2 years underpins our commitment to increase the diversity of our arts, screen and creative industries in Scotland, and promote fresh creative expression through encouraging new platforms, connections and allies to emerge.”
Since 2013, Unlimited has provided nearly £4 million to 280 disabled artists through commissions, awards and support, making it the largest supporter of disabled artists worldwide.
Unlimited grants have previously supported Scotland based creatives including performance artist Ian Johnston and writer Ellen Renton. Further information can be found on the Unlimited website. Updated guidance is available for the following programmes: Main Commissions, Research and Development awards and Emerging Artists awards.
Applications open: Thursday 1 October 2020
Deadline: Tuesday 27 October 2020 at 12 noon
Unlimited is delivered by the disability-led arts charity Shape and arts producing organisation Artsadmin. It receives funding from The National Lottery through Arts Council England and Creative Scotland.
Shape Arts is a disability-led arts organisation which works to improve access to culture for disabled people by providing opportunities for disabled artists, training cultural institutions to be more open to disabled people, and through running participatory arts and development programmes. shapearts.org.uk
Artsadmin is a producing organisation, which enables artists to create without boundaries, connecting bold interdisciplinary work with local, national and international audiences. The advisory service supports artists at every stage of their development with free advice and opportunities. Toynbee Studios, Artsadmin's east London base, is a centre for the creation, development and presentation of new work, where, in the rehearsal, performance and meeting spaces, talent is constantly nurtured. Since 2013, Artsadmin has co-delivered Unlimited in partnership with Shape Arts. artsadmin.co.uk
Creative Scotland is the public body that supports the arts, screen and creative industries across all parts of Scotland on behalf of everyone who lives, works or visits here. We enable people and organisations to work in and experience the arts, screen and creative industries in Scotland by helping others to develop great ideas and bring them to life. We distribute funding provided by the Scottish Government and The National Lottery. Follow us on Twitter @CreativeScots
