New funds for visual artists and craft makers in the outer Hebrides

New funds for visual artists and craft makers in the outer Hebrides

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, in partnership with Creative Scotland have developed a new awards scheme for artists and craft makers based in the Outer Hebrides. Similar schemes run by other local authorities in Scotland, have made a significant impact on the creative development of artists’ and makers’ work.

Councillor Archie Campbell, Chair of Sustainable Development Committee said: ‘I’m delighted that this awards scheme which is being run in the Outer Hebrides for the first time can offer this service to individual Visual Artists and Craft Makers. The aim is to assist them to develop and extend their own professional visual art or craft practice. The application process is straightforward, and grants of between, £250 – £1500 are available’.

A range of activities are eligible for funding, including, for example: research and development costs for a new project; travel and subsistence costs to experience new influences out-with the Outer Hebrides, such as a major conference, exhibition or craft fair; advancing skills by attending a master-class; the purchase of materials/ equipment to develop new work for market or exhibition.

There are two deadlines for applications 5pm, Monday 6th September 2010 and (subject to remaining funds) 5pm, Monday 8th November 2010.

Guidance notes and application forms for the Awards Schemes are available as downloads from: http://www.cne-siar.gov.uk/artsandculture/artsandculturefunding.asp the new scheme for individuals compliments the existing Arts Revenue Grants Scheme which has supported a large number of constituted community groups, to develop arts activities and events. Details of how to apply for a CnES Arts Revenue Grant are also available at the web-link above.

The Visual Artists Awards and Craft Makers Awards Scheme is the second new initiative that the Comhairle’s Arts Development service has co-ordinated in 2010. Since its initial distribution in May, the Made in the Outer Hebrides: Visual Arts and Craft Guide, has been well-received by both tourists and locals. This colourful, pocket-sized booklet details the art and craft work, locations and opening times of 73 businesses throughout Lewis, Harris and the Uists.

Copies of the booklet can be picked up free at many venues, including Tourist Information Offices, Stornoway Airport, An Lanntair, Taigh Chearsabhagh, Kildonan Museum and smaller galleries throughout the Outer Hebrides. A PDF version of the guide can also be downloaded from the CnES web-site at this link: www.cnesiar.gov.uk/artsandculture/madeintheouterhebrides.asp

Anyone wishing further information on the Visual Arts and Crafts Makers Awards Scheme or the Made in the Outer Hebrides: Visual Arts and Crafts Guide 2010 should contact: Elsie Mitchell, Arts Development Officer, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, e-mail: emitchell@cne-siar.gov.uk or telephone: 01851 672 708.