Orkney artists benefit from Visual Arts and Craft Maker’s Awards

Eight artists based in Orkney have benefited from bursaries totalling £5,750 in the latest round of Visual Arts and Craft Maker’s Awards (VACMA) 2021-2022.

These awards are supported by Creative Scotland through funding from the National Lottery in partnership with Highlands and Islands Enterprise and Orkney Islands Council.

In place of these usual VACMA awards, this year fixed bursaries are available in recognition of the ongoing impacts of COVID-19 on individual artists and makers.

The VACMA scheme offers two levels of bursaries:

• Bursaries of £750.
• Bursaries of £500 for New Graduates / Emerging Artists. Applicants must have less than 5 years’ experience outside of education or training or to have graduated in 2015 or later.

Those to benefit this year to assist in creative development include:

• Kristyn Grieve – painting with oils training and experimentation.
• Jeanne Rose – printmaking development and mentorship.
• Robin Palmer – creative lighting development for ceramic practice.
• Jane Haselden – plant experimentation for basket making/woven sculpture.
• Boyd/Grogan – ceramic technique development working towards an exhibition.
• Laura Drever – equipment and training to develop digital practice.
• Samantha Clark – drawing and painting research and development, exploring new surfaces and materials.
• Helen Galland – weaving mentoring and upholstery training.

Visual artist, Laura Drever, has had to adjust her way of working as a result of the COVID-19 restrictions and guidelines in place.

She explained: “The majority of communication, applications, submissions, exhibitions have moved online. Given the expectations to engage and contribute, it is essential that equipment used is suitable for purpose.

“As a visual artist with a traditional approach, my skills and equipment in these areas are limited. Like many I am learning and adjusting as I go - asking others for help, borrowing equipment and skills has become common practice.

“The bursary will contribute towards learning new digital skills as well as helping with the purchase of suitable equipment. Allowing me to be professional, take part in conversations and access opportunities offered within the arts, locally and nationally.

“I am very grateful to receive this VACMA bursary - thanks to the OIC, HIE and Creative Scotland. It really is a big help given the changing landscape we find ourselves in.”

Arts Officer Emma Gee said: “These recipients span the range from emerging, returning and established artists, all sharing the determination to make Orkney a centre of creative exploration. The bursaries in this scheme seed-fund experimentation and risk-taking, enabling our creative community to develop resilience in the sector and retain Orkney’s reputation for artistic innovation.

“If you think you can benefit from this support the next round of funding will be held in October 2021 and advertised in The Orcadian.”

Contact Emma Gee for further information and application support at emma.gee@orkney.gov.uk.