At a Glance
- Tasks: Create innovative photographic works exploring the theme of 'home' for a city transformation project.
- Company: The Box, a cultural hub in Plymouth focused on community and creativity.
- Benefits: Commission fee of £1,000 plus up to £500 for production costs.
- Other info: Opportunity to display work at The Box from late October 2026 to February 2027.
- Why this job: Showcase your talent and contribute to Plymouth's evolving narrative through art.
- Qualifications: Emerging photographers or photography-based artists with a unique vision.
We are looking for emerging photographers or photography-based artists to create small-scale commissions that explore the meaning of 'home'. As Plymouth's 'plans for homes' starts to shape the transformation of the city centre and waterfront - delivering 10,000+ new homes, alongside employment, leisure, culture, and green spaces - this is a timely opportunity to reflect on the city's history, understand the present, and think about Plymouth's future.
We are looking to commission three emerging photographers to create a series of photographic images or photography-based 2D artwork for display at The Box from late October 2026 to late February 2027. We are interested in proposals that reflect the issues of our age, that are innovative, unique and that consider the themes of:
- The home as a creative space
- Everyday life
- Plymouth through its people and places
You are welcome to use an analogue (film-based) process as part of your work, but submissions to the open call must be high resolution digital images, or 2D photography-based work ready for display.
Commission fee: £1,000 including materials, equipment and travel (and VAT if applicable)
Production costs: Up to £500 production costs covered by The Box
Outcome: At least 5-10 images – so that a selection can be made for final display at The Box
Deadline for entries: 12pm on 29 June 2026
Selection announcement: 17 July 2026
Final submissions: 11 September 2026
More information, details on how to apply and terms and conditions can be found here.
Open Call: Emerging Photographers Commission in Plymouth employer: Visual Arts South West
The Box offers a unique opportunity for emerging photographers to engage with the vibrant transformation of Plymouth, providing a supportive environment that fosters creativity and innovation. With a focus on meaningful projects that reflect contemporary issues, employees can expect a collaborative work culture, access to professional development, and the chance to showcase their work in a prominent public space. This role not only allows for artistic expression but also contributes to the community's cultural landscape, making it an enriching experience for all involved.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Open Call: Emerging Photographers Commission in Plymouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow photographers, attend local art events, and connect with people in the industry. You never know who might have a lead on an opportunity or be willing to collaborate.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your work online! Use social media platforms and photography websites to display your portfolio. Make sure to engage with your audience and other artists; it’s all about visibility!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t shy away from applying for commissions! We encourage you to submit your proposals through our website. Tailor your application to reflect the themes of the commission and let your creativity shine.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews or discussions by researching the organisation and understanding their vision. Be ready to discuss how your work aligns with their goals, especially around the theme of 'home' in Plymouth.
We think you need these skills to ace Open Call: Emerging Photographers Commission in Plymouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Unique Perspective:When applying, make sure to highlight what makes your vision of 'home' unique. We want to see how you interpret this theme through your lens, so don’t hold back on sharing your personal experiences and insights!
Quality Over Quantity:Focus on submitting high-resolution images that truly represent your work. We’re looking for quality pieces that stand out, so choose your best shots and ensure they’re ready for display.
Follow the Guidelines:Make sure to read through the application guidelines carefully. We’ve laid out everything you need to know about the submission process, so stick to the requirements to avoid any hiccups!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your work and ensures you don’t miss any important updates about the commission!
How to prepare for a job interview at Visual Arts South West
✨Know Your Work Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you have a solid understanding of your own portfolio. Be ready to discuss the themes and concepts behind your work, especially how they relate to the idea of 'home'. This will show your passion and depth of thought.
✨Research Plymouth's Transformation
Familiarise yourself with Plymouth's ongoing changes and how they impact the community. Understanding the context of your work in relation to the city's development will help you articulate your vision and relevance during the interview.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask about the commission and the exhibition space at The Box. This demonstrates your genuine interest and helps you gauge how your work can fit into their vision.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
Since you'll be discussing your photographic images, practice presenting them clearly and confidently. Consider how you can convey your artistic process and the stories behind your images in a compelling way.
