At a Glance
- Tasks: Apply for funding to create bold and innovative art projects.
- Company: Unlimited, a leading organisation supporting disabled artists across the UK.
- Benefits: Grants ranging from £15,000 to £80,000 to bring your creative vision to life.
- Other info: Join a movement that celebrates diversity and drives change in the arts sector.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the arts and challenge the status quo with your creativity.
- Qualifications: Open to all disabled artists with a passion for pushing artistic boundaries.
The predicted salary is between 15000 - 80000 £ per year.
Unlimited is offering ten awards totalling £413,000 to disabled artists across England, Scotland, and Wales – now open for applications. With amounts ranging from £15,000 to £80,000, these commissioning awards will support the creation of extraordinary new work in artforms including theatre, dance, music, visual arts, literature, and combined arts.
We're here to support bold creative visions from disabled artists - whether it's a seed of an idea or something production-ready, we’ll help bring it to life.
Cat Sheridan, Senior Producer, Unlimited: “At a time when disabled artists, particularly those who are multiply marginalised, face increasing barriers and pressure, the Open Awards are a vital act of creative defiance. These awards are about saying yes to risk, yes to scale, yes to the urgent and yes to the joyful. We’re here to back ideas that stretch and push form and reimagine what’s possible. Making sure powerful, boundary-pushing art by disabled artists gets out into the world.”
We’re not just funding artists' project ideas. We’re committed to driving change across the arts sector. That means rethinking the kind of work that is supported, valued, and platformed. Open Awards under £25,000 are ideal for testing, exploring, and playing with early ideas. Awards over £25,000 are a chance to get that almost-there piece in front of audiences. Perfect for artists who’ve had some funding but haven’t been able to get the work out there yet.
Pete Massey, Director, Yorkshire, Arts Council England: "We’re thrilled to see Unlimited launch another round of Open Awards, giving disabled artists and disabled led companies the opportunity to make extraordinary work, for national and international audiences. At the Arts Council we want to ensure that people from every background can take part in, experience and create high quality art and culture. Unlimited's Open Awards do just that."
Amanda Loosemore, Portfolio Manager, Arts Council of Wales: “Unlimited commissions are crucial to raising the profile of disabled artists and shining a spotlight on the range of exciting work created across the UK. We’re thrilled to continue to be part of this here in Wales. Over a number of years our commitment to the programme has had a positive impact on Wales-based disabled artists, offering opportunities for support and creative development via a range of partnerships. It is only right that audiences are able to experience the extraordinary work created by these commissioned artists who promote change and challenge the arts sector.”
Kim Simpson, Head of Equalities, Diversity and Inclusion, Creative Scotland: “The Unlimited commissioning programme continues to celebrate and elevate the exceptional talent and creativity of disabled artists across the UK, offering a vital platform that drives real, lasting change within the cultural sector. It not only opens up pathways to flourishing artistic careers but also sets a powerful benchmark for how the industry can break down barriers and lead on accessibility.”
Open Awards for Disabled Artists: Fund Bold Work employer: arts.wales
Unlimited is an exceptional employer dedicated to supporting disabled artists across England, Scotland, and Wales through its Open Awards programme. With a strong commitment to fostering creativity and driving change in the arts sector, employees benefit from a vibrant work culture that values bold ideas and inclusivity, alongside opportunities for professional growth and collaboration with passionate individuals. Working at Unlimited means being part of a transformative movement that champions diverse artistic voices and reimagines the possibilities within the cultural landscape.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Open Awards for Disabled Artists: Fund Bold Work
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with other artists, producers, and organisations in the arts scene. Attend events, workshops, and exhibitions to meet people who can help you get your work noticed.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your work online! Use social media platforms and personal websites to display your art and creative process. This not only builds your portfolio but also attracts potential collaborators and funders.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t shy away from pitching your ideas! Whether it’s a bold concept or a nearly finished piece, reach out to galleries, festivals, and funding bodies. We believe in your vision, so let others see it too!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’re here to support you every step of the way. Make sure to check out the Open Awards and submit your application – this could be your chance to create something extraordinary!
We think you need these skills to ace Open Awards for Disabled Artists: Fund Bold Work
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Bold and Authentic:When you're writing your application, let your true self shine through! We want to see your unique voice and vision. Don’t be afraid to share your bold ideas and how they push boundaries in the arts.
Tailor Your Proposal:Make sure to tailor your application to fit the specific award you're applying for. Highlight how your project aligns with our mission at Unlimited to support extraordinary work by disabled artists. We love seeing how your ideas connect with our goals!
Showcase Your Impact:Explain not just what you want to create, but why it matters. We’re interested in how your work can drive change and challenge perceptions in the arts sector. Make it clear how your project will resonate with audiences and contribute to the cultural landscape.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your proposal and ensures you’re following all the necessary steps. Plus, we’re here to help if you have any questions along the way!
How to prepare for a job interview at arts.wales
✨Know Your Vision
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on your artistic vision and how it aligns with the values of Unlimited. Be ready to articulate your ideas clearly, whether they are still in the brainstorming phase or nearly production-ready.
✨Showcase Your Boldness
Unlimited is all about supporting bold and boundary-pushing work. Prepare examples of how your past projects have challenged norms or explored new territories in your art form. This will demonstrate your commitment to creativity and risk-taking.
✨Understand the Impact
Be prepared to discuss not just your work, but also its potential impact on audiences and the arts sector. Think about how your project can drive change and elevate the profile of disabled artists, as this aligns with Unlimited's mission.
✨Engage with the Panel
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about Unlimited’s initiatives and how they support artists. Engaging with the panel shows your genuine interest and helps you gauge if their vision aligns with yours.
