Visual Artists and Craft Makers Awards Scheme now open

A funding scheme for local artists and craftspeople is now open for applications - for the sixth year in a row.

The Visual Artists and Craft Makers Awards offers grants of between £500 and £1500 to support individual artists and craft makers develop professionally and creatively.

It is run by Orkney Islands Council on behalf of Creative Scotland, with the support of Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

Funding can be used to support research, skills training, studio work, exhibitions and mentoring.

This year the funding pot has increased from £6000 to £7500.

A further change this year is the availability of a bursary bursaries of £500 for new graduates or emerging artists.

The Council's Cultural Services Manager, Clare Gee, said: "Over the last six years the scheme has helped a large number of artists develop their work including twelve just last year, cementing Orkney's reputation as a centre for culture and the arts in Scotland. The scheme can make a huge difference in supporting local artists and craft makers and therefore I'd encourage them to apply."

To find out more, contact Clare Gee at the Council on 01856 873737 873535 extension 2716.

You can also send an email to Clare Gee or write to Clare Gee, Education, Leisure and Housing Services, Orkney Islands Council, School Place, Kirkwall KW15 1NY.

The deadline for applications is 17.00 on Tuesday 8 October 2019.

Further information is available on the Council website on the Arts Opportunities and Funding page.