At a Glance
- Tasks: Collaborate with students to create bespoke tools and artwork for an exhibition.
- Company: John Hansard Gallery, supporting disabled artists and promoting inclusivity.
- Benefits: £2,000 artist fee, travel expenses, access costs, and materials budget.
- Other info: Join a supportive community focused on disability justice and artistic innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by showcasing your art in a prestigious gallery.
- Qualifications: Must be a disabled artist within 40 miles of the gallery.
We are seeking Expressions of Interest from disabled artists living and working within a 40-mile distance to John Hansard Gallery who are interested in collaborating with Occupational Therapy and Engineering students from the University of Southampton. This is an opportunity for one artist to make or adapt tools to support their artistic practice. The tools and artwork will be displayed in an exhibition at John Hansard Gallery, curated by Jess Starns as part of the Future Curators Programme. Future Curators is a residency programme for Disabled curators working within mainstream visual arts institutions. Grounded in disability justice, the programme was founded by DASH, a Disabled artist‑led visual arts organisation.
Responsibilities
- Collaborating with students in July and August to develop bespoke tools or adaptations
- Testing and refining these tools within your practice from August and throughout Autumn
- Creating artwork to go on display at John Hansard Gallery in February 2027
Remuneration
Artist fee: £2,000 (including up to four meetings with students), plus travel expenses, access costs and materials budget to be defined.
Application Process
Information Session: Monday 11 May. Deadline for Expressions of Interest: Monday 25 May 2026. Interview: Monday 15 June 2026 (online or in person). Dash Arts Future Curator exhibition will run from February to May 2027.
Open Call: Disabled Artists in Southampton employer: John Hansard Gallery
At DASH, we pride ourselves on being an inclusive and supportive employer that champions the voices of disabled artists. Our collaborative work environment fosters creativity and innovation, providing unique opportunities for professional growth through partnerships with students from the University of Southampton. Located near the John Hansard Gallery, we offer a vibrant platform for artists to showcase their work while receiving tailored support to enhance their artistic practice.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Open Call: Disabled Artists in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the gallery and its vibe! Check out past exhibitions and see what kind of work they showcase. This will help you tailor your approach and show them you're genuinely interested in collaborating.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to other artists or students who have worked with the gallery before. They might have some insider tips or even be able to introduce you to the right people.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking about how you can integrate the tools you'll develop into your artistic practice. Be ready to discuss your ideas and how they align with the gallery's mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the easiest way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing fresh talent and innovative ideas come through!
We think you need these skills to ace Open Call: Disabled Artists in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're writing your expression of interest, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your unique perspective and experiences as a disabled artist.
Show Your Passion:Make sure to express your enthusiasm for collaborating with students and how this opportunity aligns with your artistic practice. We love seeing applicants who are genuinely excited about the project and what they can bring to the table!
Keep It Clear and Concise:While we appreciate creativity, clarity is key! Make sure your application is easy to read and straight to the point. Highlight your relevant experience and ideas without going off on too many tangents.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of all the amazing artists interested in this opportunity. Plus, it ensures you don’t miss any important updates or information.
How to prepare for a job interview at John Hansard Gallery
✨Know Your Art and Your Needs
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on your artistic practice and the specific tools or adaptations you might need. Be ready to discuss how these tools can enhance your work and what challenges you've faced in the past.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
This opportunity involves working closely with students, so it's essential to demonstrate your willingness to collaborate. Think about past experiences where you've worked with others and be prepared to share those stories during the interview.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Gallery and Programme
Research John Hansard Gallery and the Future Curators Programme. Understanding their mission and values will help you align your responses with what they’re looking for, showing that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the collaboration process, the support available, and how your artwork will be showcased. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if this opportunity is right for you.
