The jobs page at www.creativeleicestershire.org.uk is updated regularly & includes job ads with short deadlines that don’t make it into the ebulletin

Dance teacher Babyballet Nottingham
The multi award winning Babyballet is currently looking for a teacher to run classes on a Saturday morning in Arnold Nottingham. The candidate must hold dance teaching qualifications or have previous teaching experience and hold a recent CRB. Closes Saturday 15 March 2014 (£10k-15k pro rata) Contact: Gemma Herbert nottinghamnorth@babyballet.co.uk

Digital Designer - Bulb Studios
We’re hiring a digital designer to work alongside our creative teams and development teams, under the guidance of the Creative Director. The right candidate will have a strong visual design sensibility, a year or more experience within the industry, and have a positive, proactive work ethic. The role involves digital design for mobile and web applications, branding, design for print & artworking, and offers a competitive salary, some unique benefits and prospects for progression within the business. The salary offered is between £15-20k, dependent upon experience. For more information and to apply visit the website.

Web Designer, Redivider Productions
Web Designer required for two projects - the main one being for a locally made independent feature film. For both projects, this will involve building websites that incorporate movie/film footage. We have completed most of the work on this through voluntary means but managed to raise some money through Kickstarter to enable us to get the work completed and we are in need now for a website and therefore can negotiate a payment for this. In addition to the payment, you name/company may appear in the credits. Closes Saturday 15 March 2014 (£10k-15k pro rata) Contact: Clare Speller clarespeller@gmail.com

Sound Engineer for film, Redivider Productions
Sound Engineer required for completion of an independent feature film. For an experienced technician, this should take approximately three days as the majority of the work has been done. Experience of Nuendo would be preferable. Ideally, must be able to get to Leicester. Although nearly all the work has been done voluntarily, we have raised money to get the final bits finished. Payment circa £500 Neg. Please contact Clare on: 0116 2834033 or 07949372099 or ideally email: clarespeller@gmail.com Closes Saturday 15 March.

Technical Manager (Lighting,Sound and Video) - Curve Theatre
Circa £29,000 per annum, full time, permanent (42 hours per week) We have an exciting opportunity for a Technical Manager to join our busy Production department at Curve, one of Britain's leading producing theatres located in the heart of Leicester's Cultural Quarter. The post holder will work as part of the Technical Team in maintaining the required high standards of production and maintenance for all Curve spaces and equipment. Whilst maintaining a specialism in lighting you will also be responsible for the sound and video requirements for the theatre. The successful candidate will have strong management skills with the ability to manage and communicate with staff at all levels. In addition you will have extensive knowledge of theatre electrics and lighting along with sound operating systems. Visit www.curveonline.co.uk/careers for further details and to submit an application. Closing date for applications: Sunday, 23rd March.

Musician/Actor/Composer, The Gramophones Theatre Company
The Gramophones Theatre Company are seeking a Musician/Performer/Composer (£10k-15k pro rata) for a new piece of theatre entitled WanderLust. We are ideally looking for someone who plays several instruments, sings, writes music and has devising experience, but would consider pairing two people up, one as musician/performer, one as a composer. The Gramophones are based in Nottingham. We create playful, interactive performances that are accessible and connect with audiences. This piece has been commissioned by Creative Arts East and will be created in July 2014. We will then perform at the Edinburgh Fringe - dates to be confirmed. A spring tour is planned for 2015. The rehearsal period is paid at equity rates, but Edinburgh will be expenses only. Any following shows will be paid at equity rates. For more info on the show and company go to www.gramophonestheatre.com Please send a CV and cover letter explaining why you’re interested in this position and what you would bring to the production. We encourage applications from women who are underrepresented in the arts. Closes Monday 24 March, auditions to take place on the 28th March. 

Tender for Knowledge Transfer project Near Now Know How, Broadway / Near Now
Tender for the design & delivery of @broadwaycinema Know How innovation programme for cultural sector in Midlands http://bit.ly/1blVDbb Near Now Know How is Broadway’s newly established knowledge transfer project, part funded by the European Regional Development Fund 2007 to 2013 and supported using public funding by Arts Council England, with additional finance contributed by regional universities.Broadway is inviting tenders for the design and delivery of a series of forums and rapid prototyping events for and with the arts, culture and heritage sector in the East Midlands, leading to tangible change in their capacity to respond to the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital economy. Budget of up to £76,000 inclusive of any applicable VAT. Deadline for tenders: 12 noon, Tuesday 25 March. Full details can be found here. Please contact John Tobin, Broadway’s Development Director, by email at j.tobin@broadway.org.uk with any queries related to this Invitation to Tender.

Call for proposals: Creative Learning at Embrace arts
Proposals are now being accepted for courses and workshops at Embrace arts for October 2014 – September 2015. Embrace arts is looking for tutors from a wide range of disciplines. Proposals can be for anything from one day workshops to extended 10 week courses, with a tutor fee of £33.22 per hour (inc NI & holiday pay). For more information and a proposal form please email John, jk210@le.ac.uk. Deadline for applications Friday 28 March 5pm.

Artist Briefs: SO Festival - Pony traps & Performance Ring
Since 2009, East Lindsey District Council has worked with Arts Council England to stage one of the East Midlands’ largest and most diverse outdoor cultural event – SO Festival. Between June 28 and July 6 2014, SO Festival 2014 will transform Lincolnshire’s coastal district of East Lindsey into an international outdoor arts venue with spectacular events, art and performance. A key component of the SO Festival 2014 programme will revive the centuries old tradition of the travelling entertainment & show that accompanied markets and fairs across the towns and villages of the UK. As part of SO Festival’s Travelling Show, we wish to commission an artist / group/ collective to design a temporary, portable performance ring. We also wish to commission 5 artists / groups to design a pony trap or painted Sulkie which reflects the direction and ethos of the 2014 Festival. For the full briefs please email Lorrie Stock at East Lindsey District Council: Lorrie.Stock@e-lindsey.gov.uk Closes Friday 28 March.

Designers / Illustrators / Studio Assistants - Watermark Publishing
Watermark Publishing is one of the U.K.’s leading Greetings Card Publishers. We are currently seeking highly creative, motivated designers, illustrators and studio assistants to join our ever growing team. If you think you are suitable and have a willingness to learn, then we would love to hear from you! Deadline: 28th March. Please visit http://www.watermarkpublishing.com for more details and to apply

Development Officers, Voluntary Arts
3 posts in England including Nottingham (£20k-25k pro rata). In November 2013, Voluntary Arts secured a grant from the Big Lottery Fund/Spirit of 2012 Trust ‘Keeping the Spirit of 2012 Alive’ campaign which aims to inspire, engage, motivate and mobilise people across the UK to get involved in their community, to volunteer and to harness the collective spirit of 2012. Established with an endowment from the Big Lottery Fund, the Spirit of 2012 Trust aims to build both on the legacy of the London Games across the UK and to develop work to support and sustain community related activities up to and beyond Glasgow 2014. Our Spirit of 2012 project will build on several existing Voluntary Arts initiatives, including Epic Awards, Voluntary Arts Week and our Volunteering in the Arts project. It also includes a programme of training and skills development and a scheme which will attempt to bridge the gap between professionally-led community arts activities and self-organised voluntary arts groups. For more information and to apply, please visit www.voluntaryarts.org/category/jobs-and-volunteering/opportunities-at-voluntary-arts. If you have any queries, please email jobs@voluntaryarts.org or phone Lindsey on 029 20 395 395. Closes Thursday 27 March. 

Faith Trail/Cultural Workshop Leader, Derby Open Centre
Session workers required at the Open Centre Derby – £10.60 per hour (Term time only) We are looking for people who are personable, reliable and with excellent communication skills.  Flexible availability is also important but not essential. The role requires taking School groups round local places of worship and giving a brief presentation at each venue. Successful applicants must have an interest in world faiths and cultures. Full training will be given. We are also looking for talented people to deliver workshops either at the Open Centre or in schools. Examples of our current workshops include Asian or African Cookery, Craft, Dance, Music, Art and Storytelling. If you are interested in applying please go to http://www.derbyopencentre.org/were-recruiting/ for more information. Closes Monday 31 March.

Bradgate Park - Sculpture Centrepiece for Memorial Wood - Bradgate Park Trust
The Bradgate Park Trust receives many requests each year from people who would like to have a memorial bench or tree provided in memory of a departed relative or friend. It is no longer possible to accede to these requests and so the Trust is looking at other ways to fulfil the desire for a physical memorial in a way that is appropriate to the Park's environment. A small area of woodland has been identified close to the main Visitor Centre and adjacent to the main tarmac carriageway that runs through the Park that would be a suitable location for a memorial combining ease of access, good views over the Park and the adjoining Cropston Reservoir with the ability for visitors to spend some time in quiet reflection. For more information see the Creative Leicestershire Jobs Page or email estate-office@bradgatepark.org A fuller brief is available on request and we are seeking expressions of interest in undertaking this commission by 31st March 2014

Marketing Officer - Loughborough University Arts
Loughborough University Arts ( www.lboro.ac.uk/arts ) is seeking an enthusiastic and committed individual with proven relevant skills to deliver our marketing activity in order to maximise attendance, develop our profile locally and nationally, oversee design and print and manage our digital/online presence. The successful candidate should be a people person, with excellent communication skills, high quality administration skills and great attention to detail. A knowledge of, and an active interest in the arts is vital. LUA comprises of both a toured in arts and events programme and Radar which commissions contemporary artists to develop new work in response to research taking place across the campus The successful candidate will join a small but friendly team delivering an ambitious range of activities that not only support the creative life of the campus but also increase the wider visibility of the University through innovative collaborative projects between artists and academics. Deadline: 2 April. 30 hours per week. For more info and an application form: https://vacancies.lboro.ac.uk

Pianist for Dance Classes - Ballet Theatre UK
Ballet Theatre UK are seeking a part-time classical pianist to accompany professional and pre-professional ballet classes. Experience of playing for dance is not essential as training will be given but an interest or understanding in classical dance is preferred. Application deadline: May 31st 2014. Contact info@ballettheatreuk.com for more information.

Commercial Street/Hip Hop Teacher - Ballet Theatre UK
Ballet Theatre UK is seeking a part-time teacher of commercial dance to deliver weekly term time classes to students of the full time HNC/HND vocational training programme. Applicants should have a number of years experience as an industry professional and able to give constructed classes in current commercial technique. Application deadline: May 31st 2014. Contact info@ballettheatreuk.com for more information.

Contemporary Dance Teacher - Ballet Theatre UK
Ballet Theatre UK is seeking a part-time teacher of contemporary dance to deliver weekly term time classes to students of the full time HNC/HND vocational training programme. Applicants should have a number of years experience as an industry professional and able to give constructed classes in Graham/Hawton/Cunningham/Lemone based technique. Application deadline: May 31st 2014. Contact info@ballettheatreuk.com for more information.

 

 

For full details visit the Creative Leicestershire Jobs Page

Workspaces Available at LCB Depot
We have workspaces to lease to creative businesses at LCB Depot and at Phoenix Square from just £209 + VAT per month - find out more here. A new flexible workspace package has opened at LCB Depot, for more information go to http://www.lcbdepot.co.uk/flexible-workspace-package

Cotesbach Stable Yard LE17 4HX: Studio/Retail Space to Let
Become part of Cotesbach hub growing its reputation for high quality creative small businesses and artisan activity, with local food networking and new opportunities offered by Cotesbach Educational Trust. The Little Shop £125 pcm Front facing on to Stable Yard, near to blacksmith’s forge and The Stables shop/cafe.  Water supply, electricity and telecommunications.  13 sq m with mezzanine office space.  Compact space but suitable as studio, office and retail combined.

www.cotesbach.net  www.cotesbachschoolhouse.org.uk Enquiries please to sophy@cotesbach.net

Creative Leicestershire Business Surgeries
Book a one-to-one session with our business advisor, Fred Brookes. 

• Leicester 1 April LCB Depot, LE1 1RE. One hour slots available.

 

 

• Upcoming Business Surgeries bookable through Eventbrite when available:

Hinckley & Bosworth 8 April
North West Leicestershire 13 May
Melton 10 June

These sessions are only available to residents of Leicester, Leicestershire & Rutland. This is a Creative Leicestershire event

Spanish Graphic Design Intern Offer
Rafael Felix is a student in the department of Graphic Design at the College of Fine Arts in Almeria, Spain (http://www.eaalmeria.es/Home). He has an Erasmus scholarship to undertake a two month internship with a graphic design company in the UK. The scholarship means there will be no expense incurred by the company by allowing him the opportunity to intern with it between April and June 2015. Felix has been involved in web and logo design on coolmyplanet.org and participated in "Rumor Alpujarra Almeria", a self-sustaining social media project for tourist promotion of Almeria. He aspires to work as a Graphic Designer for a reputed company and work in creative projects. If you would like to know more, or to contact Felix with a view to an internship with your business, please contact Fred Brookes at Creative Leicestershire on fred.brookes@creativeleicestershire.org.uk

Call Out - Graphic Designers and Illustrators - Nineteen Degrees
Nineteen Degrees are calling out for graphic designers and illustrators to submit by email a max of 3 pieces of work and a artist statement to be considered for an exhibition at Snibston Community Gallery. The exhibition title will be 'The Language of Aesthetic' and we are looking for emerging graphic designers and illustrators under the age of 25 who perhaps have a degree or practice in their space time. The exhibition will explore graphic design and illustration as an art form as well as its function in mainstream business and visual communication, and as a result the tension this has on the art form. Work can be 3d and 2d. Please direct submissions to project19degrees@gmail.com The deadline is Monday 24th March and the exhibition will be April 12th-30th.

IdeasTap Tube Advert
Calling all budding advertising gurus! We're looking for a creative individual, or team, to come up with a new poster campaign for IdeasTap. We've rented a six-sheet, backlit poster site in Old Street tube station and we want you to design the poster to fill it. Not only will your ad be seen by thousands of passers-by each day, you'll also receive a design fee of £300 plus a credit on the poster itself. The winner will need to come up with the concept and artwork for the poster. They will also be required to develop their idea and deliver high-resolution, print-ready artwork. The £300 fee includes up to three sets of design revisions. This brief closes on Friday 21 March 2014 at 5pm and is open to IdeasTap members aged 16 and over. For more information and to apply click here

Top Up Fund: Design
Got a great, design-based project, but struggling to find the cash to finish it? Look no further! Ideastap are offering you the chance to win one of ten £500 Top Up Funds to help you realise your idea, giving 10 creative individuals, or groups, the opportunity to win £500 for their design project. The funding is designed to support a project that it already underway and cannot be used to fund college or university course work. This opportunity is open to designers working in all disciplines including: graphics, illustration, product, furniture, fashion, costume, installation and theatre design. This brief closes on Monday 5 May 2014 at 5pm and is open to IdeasTap members aged 18 to 30 on the closing date, more information here.

 

Film Theory Courses at Phoenix

• A Day in the World of Wes Anderson. Saturday 15th March 10.30am-4pm. £26/£22 conc. (with an additional ticket to see The Grand Budapest Hotel) A career overview of one of America’s most distinctive and stylish contemporary directors, a man who creates beguiling and quirky stories and characters like no other current filmmaker.  Despite a gallery of regular faces and stars in his films from the mid 1990s to the present day , each film somehow lives a life of its own.
• Talking Pictures. Tuesday 1st April to Tuesday 3rd June (10 sessions) 10.30am-12pm, £80/£70 conc. (including weekly entries to the Tuesday matinee for the duration of the course) Share your love of film at Phoenix with a course designed to provide the fullest possible cinema-going experience. Every week you'll get weekly admittance to the Phoenix afternoon screening, a cup of tea or filter coffee and - best of all - a tutor-led discussion amongst fellow motion picture lovers about the film of the week, current film news, controversies, obituaries and everything in between.

 

Contact Phoenix Box Office on 0116 2422800 or for more information go to www.phoenix.org.uk and look for ‘Short Courses for Adults’

Creative Leicestershire Business Surgeries
Book a one-to-one session with our business advisor, Fred Brookes.

• Leicester 1 April LCB Depot, LE1 1RE. One hour slots available.

 

 

• Upcoming Business Surgeries bookable through Eventbrite when available:

Hinckley & Bosworth 8 April
North West Leicestershire 13 May
Melton 10 June

These sessions are only available to residents of Leicester, Leicestershire & Rutland. This is a Creative Leicestershire event

Handmade in Leicestershire Summer Craft Fair
Saturday 19 July, 11 – 5. HandMade in Leicestershire is a prestigious contemporary art, craft and design fair that this year returns to the beautiful setting of Belgrave Hall and Gardens.  A wide range of arts and crafts will be on sale in the newly refurbished rooms of the Hall and Gardens with demonstrations and workshops on offer throughout the afternoon. Contact creative@leics.gov.uk if you are an artists/maker interested in holding a stall.

BBC One series: calling all amateur artists
BBC One is on the hunt for the best of Britain's amateur artists for a new competitive arts series. The programme is looking for amateur painters from all over the UK who have a passion for painting and drawing. If you are over 16 and like a creative challenge, we want to hear from you. Applicants must not be professional artists and will be expected to work in a variety of different figurative forms and media - from landscape, portraiture and still life, to watercolour, oil and charcoal. The closing date for applications is Sunday 23 March, 2014. For more information and to apply click here.

Open Exhibition Call, Gallery 202
Project202 is a crowd sourced project. We want 202 pieces of work to make up  travelling exhibitions and a further 202 pieces of work to create an art exchange event. So, whether you are established, emerging,  graduate, under graduate, a newly qualified creator  you are invited to submit  works and be part of this new and exciting contemporary project. For more information please visit: http://gallery202.wix.com/gallery202#!project202/c1jdr

Open Call: Submissions on the theme of 'Grassroots Football', QUAD, Derby
QUAD’s forthcoming Football Season of exhibitions and events will explore the global sport of football and will take place at QUAD from 26th May – 7th September 2014. We are seeking submissions from emerging artists across the UK and internationally for artworks based on the theme of ‘Grassroots Football’. The selected artists will be exhibited in QUAD’s Extra Gallery Spaces from the 26th of May – 7th September. With the World Cup soon to be on us, we are looking for artworks that document, explore and celebrate the lower echelons of the great game that is football. We are especially interested in Photography and/or Film/Moving Image works. Artists work will be selected by a panel comprising of QUAD Curator, QUAD Exhibitions Assistant and other industry professionals (details to be confirmed, please check the QUAD website for further announcements: www.derbyquad.co.uk). Applicants should send a relevant portfolio of work to michaels@derbyquad.co.uk along with a current CV, website link if applicable and a brief statement of your work (no more than 250 words) by the 25th April 2014.

Artist Applications Open for Art & Architecture Trail 2014
Would you like to exhibit as part of Wirksworth Festival 2014's Art & Architecture Trail? Apply now to exhibit at one of the UK's leading rural arts festivals, 6-7 September 2014. Last year nearly 5,000 people visited the town to enjoy the opening Art & Architecture Trail Weekend, where108 artists and designer makers, 9 graduate artistsand 19 Shop Window artists exhibited in 70 venues. Overall, artists took at least £40,000 in sales during the Opening Weekend. Artist applications are now open!  The deadline for applications is Fri 18 April 2014 at 5pm, find out more and apply to exhibit here.

Orange Tree Group - Call for Traders
The Orange Tree Group owns and operates a number of bars and restaurants within Leicester. One of these is The O Bar on Braunstone Gate in the West End of the city. On the Sunday 4th May the road is being closed during the day to accommodate market stalls. there will also be a stage erected where local artists and musicians will be performing. Being promoted as a family event we are looking for 50 stall /market traders to attend the event and have the opportunity in selling their goods/products/services. We are hoping to get a good balance of different traders selling an array of products to include art, jewelry, crafts, homemade jams, cakes, clothing etc Please contact ben@orangetree.co.uk if you are interested in taking part.

Painting Award, Jonathan Vickers Fine Art Award
The Jonathan Vickers Fine Art Award is now open for entries, with a closing date of 31 March 2014.  This 9-month residency based in Derbyshire (with a studio in Derby) is open to emerging painters to produce work within the theme of 'Sense of Place' with a focus on Derbyshire's Treasure Houses.   Full details can be found on our website at: www.vickersartaward.co.uk

My Workshop
My Workshop offers low-cost access to a range of digital fabrication equipment in a creative studio environment. From 3D printers, CNC machines, laser cutters, sewing and knitting machines to basic hand-tools, whatever your project, you will find suitable tools to make anything, from working prototypes to small production runs. The project is aimed to support start-ups, freelancers and SMEs in bringing their ideas and products to market. I am hoping to create a 12 month pilot digital making facility in the area, which will act as a catalyst for start-up and existing businesses. If you are interested in supporting this project please visit www.myworkshop.org.uk to view our video and tells us what equipment you would find most useful and if you would like for this to be set up in Leicester.

It's an exciting opportunity with far reaching potential not just for the businesses and independents but for the city as well. The response so far has been fantastic and I hope it will only grow.  If you would like to sponsor, donate equipment or get involved as a volunteer please get in touch with Anna at anna@foxandcompany.co.uk.

The Gallery@Pedestrian are now receiving applications to exhibit in April 2014!
Our vibrant and well sought after exhibition space is located in the heart of Leicester's Cultural Quarter, and combined with our beautiful floor to ceiling windows, it provides a wonderful venue for community and professional arts exhibitions.
Our ethos is focused on providing high quality exhibitions that will give both professional creatives and emerging artists a space to showcase their work and develop their practice.
The Gallery is open Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5pm and is available to be open weekends and evenings. For an application form you can either email: gallery@pedestrian.info or visit our website: www.pedestrian.info

Precious...Flora Exhibition & Workshops for Children and Families
Created and designed by Jasia McArdle and Ellen Bianchini Precious is a new sculpture constructed from hundreds of flowers, leaves, cones, fruits, bulbs, grasses and roots gathered from Leicester and its countryside. Precious presents the familiar flora of city, park, garden, and countryside in a new form.  Walk, sit or lie underneath the ‘hanging garden’, listen for its secret sounds, and consider the extraordinariness of the everyday. 14 April- 8 May 2014, 9 - 5 LCB Depot. Workshops for Children and Families include:

• The Power of Flowers Saturday 26 April
  12 – 4. Pattern shape line: make a mobile inspired by nature. Suitable for 4+ years.
  Drop-in workshop, no need to book.
• Miniature gardens for small people Monday 28 April – Friday 2 May, 11 – 12. Make a miniature garden to take home. Suitable for 4+ years,
  Booking essential – please call 0116 261 6893 to book a place.

 

SOCK FAIR
Sock Gallery, Loughborough Town Hall. ​22 March - 23 March 10 - 4. Sock  was established in 2009 and six years on has established itself as Leicestershire’s leading Arts and Crafts Purchase and Commission Fair. The fair was designed by Loughborough Town Hall to celebrate quality Artists and Makers, and encourage an appreciation of handmade British Craft. This year there will be over 35 artists and makers exhibiting a wide range of products for sale including textiles, paintings, photography, ceramics, jewellery, glassware and homewares. The fair is a great opportunity to meet artists and makers, discover their craft and invest in special and unique pieces. Many of the artists come from Leicestershire and Rutland with other exhibitors coming from surrounding counties.On Sunday there will be a FREE Children’s art workshop drop in session through out the day, suitable for 4 – 16 year olds. Entrance to the public is FREE. More information here.

Call out for Stall holders - Cotesbach estate
We are looking for makers interested in trading at our markets which run on the first Saturday of every month. Our next 3 markets will take place on Saturday 5th April, Saturday 3rd May and Saturday 7th June. We welcome all traders, whether you’re selling one-off hand crafted gifts, jewellery or artisan foods. Set in the old Stable Yard here in Cotesbach it is a unique market in a fantastic location which people love to visit. £15 per stall. For more information on Cotesbach estate, visit www.cotesbach.net Please email Livvy for an application form at: markets@cotesbach.net

Call out for artists and makers
CDS Gallery is looking for new talent to exhibit and sell their work in their new Spring Collection. More opportunities are available at CDS please visit www.cdsgalleryandstudio.com Please submit the following information, description of work/s, retail prices and images to cdsgallery@live.com

Great chance to showcase your art at Snibston
Snibston Discovery Museum at Coalville is offering artists and groups the opportunity to exhibit their work in the new year. The Leicestershire tourist attraction has a community gallery to the right of the main entrance and bookings are now being taken for 2014. The expansive, 15 square-metre area of white space is suitable for sculpture, canvas, textiles, ceramics and other forms of art with thousands of visitors each year viewing the works as part of their tour of galleries. Richard Blunt, Leicestershire County Council Cabinet member for museums, said: “We’d love to hear from established or emerging artists in Leicestershire as well as groups so have the opportunity to showcase their work.” If you are interested in exhibiting at the community gallery, email snibston@leics.gov.uk

Market Bosworth Festival Call Out
The Market Bosworth Festival is taking applications for its annual summer handmade craft market. The Festival is keen for the craft market to have a good balance of work / mediums and so is on the look-out for local handmade crafters and artists to take part. The event takes place on Saturday 21st June under a covered marquee in the market square and stalls cost £20. For more information contact info@bosworthfestival.co.uk

Ruth Singer Studio
Makers’ Yard, 82-86 Rutland St, Leicester LE1 1SB
www.ruthsinger.com ruth@ruthsinger.com / 07740 345062
Sewing Classes and Creative Workshops in the centre of Leicester run by professional textile artist and author Ruth Singer. 2014 workshops include Dressmaking, Pattern Cutting, Purse Making and Learn to Sew. Also available at the studio: Special events, sewing socials & talks, One-to-one lessons £30 per hour, Private parties & group bookings, Craft parties for children, Creative hen parties.

Emily Found A Thing Workshops
Bookings now being taken for NEW workshops at Emily Found A Thing, Wymondham, Melton Mowbray
 

• ‘Light up your home’ - No Sew Drum Lampshade making 7-9.30pm £35 Make your own professionally rolled edge 30cm drum lampshade in the fabric of you choice. Lampshade kit included. Thursday April 24th, Thursday July 24th or Thursday October 23rd
• ‘Frame It’ - Make a distinctive memo-board 7-9.30pm £35 Transform an old frame and some left over fabric into a beautiful place to store your photos, postcards and other paper items. All materials provided. Thursday May 15th

 

www.emilyfoundathing.co.uk       rachelgrevatte@gmail.com

Oil Painting Workshops by Jane French at Maker's Yard and Wistow Gallery
Oil Painting Workshops specialising in Portraits and Still Life, ideal for those who have always wanted to have a go at oil painting but have never quite got around to it! If this sounds like you - or someone you know - then book a place...or make an enquiry! The Workshops are being run from both Maker’s Yard in Leicester and Wistow Gallery! Prices start at £55 for a One Day Workshop. Check  website - www.janefrench.co.uk - for more information on dates, times, prices and availability or contact me directly if you have any questions by phoning 07769 976041 or emailing info@janefrench.co.uk

Want to exhibit at LCB Depot between July and September 2014?
Artists and curators are invited to submit proposals to exhibit at LCB Depot in one of our 3-week slots between July and September next year. We don't charge a hire fee, but we do ask you to install and take down. See our website Exhibitions page for more info and a downloadable application form, get your applications in by 28th April 2014.

Calling all local craft makers and manufacturers 
Join the BuyitUK.co directory for free and
help us bring UK manufacturing and traditional craft making back to local people. Visit us at www.BuyitUK.co email info@BuyitUK.co or call us on 0121 288 8208

Spring Programme of classes from The Art Studio, Ten2 Gallery and Art Cafe
Click here to view Ten2 Gallery's Spring Programme of classes, and it isn't too late to sign up for a class if you are interested. Also we are holding some Wednesday Workshops, - two weeks, four hours and some exciting, different classes which we hope will inspire you. To book a place call us on: 01455 636339 or complete and return the booking form on our website.

Upcoming printmaking courses at Leicester Print Workshop

• Photoplate Lithography Saturday 26 April 10 - 4. An alternative to stone lithography, this quick process enables hand drawn, photographic or digital film positives to be transferred onto lithographic plate and printed on an etching press. Some knowledge of lithography is useful but not essential as full instruction will be given.
  £75 / £67.50
• Introduction to Etching Thursday 1 May until Thursday 22 May 6 - 9. This four week evening course will introduce you to the wonderful technique of etching. Join our Artist in Residence Kate Da’Casto as she takes you through the main principles of this technique. You will learn how to prepare and draw a plate, how to add tone and etch, then to ink and print. £110 / £99

 

• Twilight Session: Printmaking introduction and refresher for educators Tuesday 11 March 6 - 9
  Or Tuesday 13 May 6 - 9. To complement our workshops in schools we offer art teachers and technicians a termly 3 hour session designed to provide an opportunity to learn new skills or revisit old ones, in a sociable environment. £25.
• Life Drawing and Waterless Lithography Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 May 10 - 4. Drawing directly from the (male) model onto printable lithographic plates you will explore mark making and composition. You will then learn how to print the plates using waterless lithography. This is a 2 day course: Day one is based at Embrace Arts, day two in the LPW printmaking studio. £125 / £112.50

 

Upcoming Artist Talks at Leicester Print Workshop

• ARTIST TALK: Kathryn Desforges Friday 25 April 6 - 8. Kathryn Desforges is the 2013 Postgraduate Lithography intern at Leicester Print Workshop, a post for which she has been awarded funding from Arts Council England. Kathryn is a visual artist and fine art printmaker based in Leeds, West Yorkshire. She works for West Yorkshire Print Studio and exhibits nationally. Join us for an informal evening of discussion and dialogue as Kathryn talks about her lithography internship and her art practice. £5.
• PRINT RUN talks: Is this a print? Wednesday 14 May 6 - 8. Is this a print? Is this an edition? How should I frame this? How can I exhibit this? In the first of our PRINT RUN series of talks, artists Sarah Kirby and Serena Smith discuss the professional practice of printmaking, from signing your prints to preparing them for an exhibition. The evening will begin with an informal talk and be followed by a discussion around example print projects and advice on how to take these forward. Attendees are invited to bring along prints or projects to be discussed at this stage should they wish.
  £5

 

Leicester Print Workshop,  50 Saint Stephens Road, Leicester, LE2 1GG
www.leicesterprintworkshop.com

 

Art & Craft Courses & Events at Embrace Arts

• Surface decoration Saturday 22 March, 10am – 3.30pm. Tutor: Andrew Wynne, £40 / £22. Explore print and dye surface decorative techniques on textiles in this innovative one-day workshop which is both experimental and practical.
• Life drawing: Shapes and proportion Saturdays, 10am – 3.30pm, 29 March 2014 & 31 May 2014. Tutor: Diane E Hall, £40 / £22. Focus on observing the proportions of the body and how the shapes, mass, solidity and energy of the human form can be expressed in exciting ways.

 

• Working in silver: Bangles and bracelets Saturday 5 April, 10am – 3.30pm, £60 / £40, Tutor: Kate Bajic. Learn how to make your own pieces using techniques such as soldering, forming, sawing, hammering, drilling, doming and filing. Suitable for both beginners and improvers.
• Capturing light at the Garden Saturday 12 April, 9am – 5pm, Tutor: Linda Young, £50 / £25.
  Discover how to make images using photographic paper and chemicals without the need for a darkroom. Through this exciting process, experiment with simple objects to produce striking images. This workshop takes place in the inspirational surroundings of the University of Leicester’s Harold Martin Botanic Garden in Oadby, using the on-site studio.

 

Embrace Arts, Richard Attenborough centre, Lancaster Road, Leicester LE1 7HA. www.embracearts.co.uk

 

Creative Leicestershire Business Surgeries
Book a one-to-one session with our business advisor, Fred Brookes.

• Leicester 1 April LCB Depot, LE1 1RE. One hour slots available.

 

 

• Upcoming Business Surgeries bookable through Eventbrite when available:

Hinckley & Bosworth 8 April
North West Leicestershire 13 May
Melton 10 June

These sessions are only available to residents of Leicester, Leicestershire & Rutland. This is a Creative Leicestershire event

Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust: Showcase
Are you a man from our b.m.e. community? If you are then you need to know that Jean Binta Breeze is back and we are working on a new show for the wonderful Showcase crew! So why not come down, poetry, creative writing, rapping, whatever you want come and check us out! Monday afternoons 2-4 at the African Caribbean Centre, Maidstone Road, Leicester, LE2 0UA. Free to attend. For more information please contact Tim Sayers or Lydia Towsey tim.sayers@leicspart.nhs.uk lydia.towsey@leicspart.nhs.uk

Foyle Young Poets of the Year Award 2014
The Poetry Society and judges Grace Nichols and Simon Barraclough are leading the call for the very best new poetic talent amongst 11-17 year olds. Take a chance on the ‘one to beat’ – the award is open to all young writers worldwide writing in English. Deadline for entries : 31st July 2014 www.foyleyoungpoets.org

Edge-Lit 3 - science-fiction, fantasy and horror day, QUAD, Derby
EDGE-LIT 3 – a day of science-fiction, fantasy and horror writing Saturday 19thJuly, 11am-11pm, QUAD, Derby. Tickets £25, including access to all activities on the day. Book from QUAD Box Office on 01332 290606 or online at www.derbyquad.co.uk Derby's annual genre fiction extravaganza returns for a third installment in 2014, once again featuring some of the finest in UK writing talent. Expect a great range of panels, workshops, readings and much more on the day, including the brain-taxing Edge-Lit Quiz, the near-legendary Edge-Lit raffle and a special science-fiction and fantasy instalment of the HOW TO WRITE BADLY WELL comedy show. EDGE-LIT 3 is the ideal day out for anyone with an interest in reading or writing in the fields of science-fiction, fantasy and horror. Find out more at http://www.derbyquad.co.uk/special-event/edge-lit-3 or join us on Twitter @EdgeLitDerby

THE Writers’ Conference 29 March 2014
Leading authors, publishers and agents will network with and talk to emerging, mid-career and established writers about how to build a successful writing career. Click here to book your EARLY BIRD ticket today for just £35 inc lunch! 

Teaching Creative Writing at Post-16: for teachers who write (or want to write)
CPD Course for Post-16 teachers. 12-13 June, 2014. Residential and non-residential options available. With special guest speaker, Daljit Nagra.
The Centre for New Writing at the University of Leicester is offering a two-day residential/non-residential teacher training course focused on the new A-Level in Creative Writing.
Designed for English teachers who wish to develop their own creative practice, this course is for those who may have experience of teaching Creative Writing in schools but who wish to develop their skills as teachers of the subject at post-16 level, or as teachers new to the A-level in Creative Writing.
The course is suitable for:
• Teachers who are already teaching Creative Writing A-level
• Teachers preparing to teach the A-level in Creative Writing
• Teachers interested in offering Creative Writing as an enrichment activity at Post-16 level

For more information and to book click here. 

Writing School Leicester
All Leicester courses take place at Leicester Adult Education College, Wellington Street, Leicester LE1 6HL. 

• Novel Writing Workshop with Rod Duncan. 9 Sessions from 29 April (No classes Tuesday 27 May) Tuesday 7.15pm – 9.15pm, Price: £135. The only way to learn the craft of the novelist is to write a novel. This course – for students with some existing experience – will make the process of writing and editing easier and more enjoyable. You will share work-in-progress, receive constructive feedback, hear aspiring novelists sharing their work and offer your own feedback to them. 
• Poetry Writing for Beginners with John Gallas. 2 Sessions from 14 May, Wednesday 1pm – 3pm, Price: £30. First-time writer, dabbler, hopeful or looking for fun with words, this 2 part course will set you on your way. Session One will help you to write poems in pairs, groups, and on your own, with clear targets, various forms and styles, learning through enjoyment. With some work on these at home between sessions, you will come to Session 2 ready to make changes according to the responses of others in the group.

 

• Writing as a Reader with Polly Tuckett. 4 Sessions from 1 May, Thursday 10am – Noon, Price: £60. Reading widely, you will take inspiration from the work of other writers, trying out various literary forms without worrying too much about discovering your own authentic “voice”. Reading for pleasure as well as reading with a critical eye improves one’s ability as a writer no end. Texts include fiction and poetry. You will be encouraged to poach the ideas and stylistic devices that appeal to you in the work of published writers, coming up with what will inevitably be your own distinctive take on a theme.
• Writing Young Adult Fiction with Maxine Linnell. One day course 12 May 2014
  Thursday 10am – 3.00 (Lunch not included) Price: £45. How do you deal with the latest language on the street? What subjects can be covered? Does it have to be fantasy or realism? More than anything, young adult fiction has to tell a gripping story. This one day course will give you a chance to try out your ideas, discuss them with other writers and see what shapes might work. Suitable for writers at all levels of experience.

 

All courses have a 4% PayPal fee if booked online. More courses are available on the Writing School Leicester website

Creative Leicestershire Business Surgeries
Book a one-to-one session with our business advisor, Fred Brookes.

• Leicester 1 April LCB Depot, LE1 1RE. One hour slots available.

 

 

• Upcoming Business Surgeries bookable through Eventbrite when available:

Hinckley & Bosworth 8 April
North West Leicestershire 13 May
Melton 10 June

These sessions are only available to residents of Leicester, Leicestershire & Rutland. This is a Creative Leicestershire event

Call for Performers: Bare Bones
Bare Bones is an event that brings spoken word artists and performance poets to the stage for a dynamic and thought-provoking evening at mac birmingham. As part of “What’s The Agenda?” Cannon Hill Collective’s eagerly anticipated festival of art for social change, the mac gang is inviting all you performance artists to respond to one or all of the following themes: The Hikikomori, Loneliness, Archival Activism, Heritage, Sexual objectification. Eight spoken word artists/performance poets (four based in the West Midlands and four based anywhere else in the UK) will get a five-minute slot each at the Bare Bones event. Each winner will receive a performance fee of £50 - plus travel expenses (if they are based outside of the West Midlands). This brief closes on Tuesday 25 March 2014 at 5pm and is open to IdeasTap members aged 16 to 24. For more information click here

Speakeasy Theatre Company
Speakeasy Theatre Company are running a short drama course for adults with moderate Learning Disabilities and the course is on Monday mornings, at Embrace Arts centre, Lancaster Rd, Leicester. If you would like more information please contact Andy Reeves on 0116 2836646 or alternatively his email is: andy@speakeasytheatre.co.uk Website:  www.speakeasytheatre.co.uk

Young Dancers Needed for Sensational Inclusive Performance
Are you a young person living in the East Midlands with a passion for dance? Do you want to perform at the national youth dance festival, U.Dance 2014? Would you like to work with exciting professional choreographers? We are looking for participants of all abilities aged 11-19 (up to 25 years with a disability) who have a passion for dance and are keen to try something new. The project will be delivered inclusively and Dance4 is committed to supporting the access needs of any participants. Join us for a taster workshop to find what the performance project will be like. Taster workshops will take place on: Sunday 23 March in Nottingham and Saturday 29 March in Leicester and Wellingborough. For more information and to book a place on your local taster workshop contact Jess at Dance4 on 0115 941 0773 or e-mail jess@dance4.co.uk or click here to download a booking form.

abDance: New Classes for 2014!
Get 2014 off to a dance and fun filled start with NEW classes at Dance Leicester run by Ali of abDance. All classes £4. Dance Leicester Studio, 1st floor, 32 Belgrave Road, Leicester, LE4 5AS. Contact Ali Bacon for bookings and more information, abdance@ntlworld.com www.abdance.co.uk 07932 686 087

Centre for Advanced Training FREE Open Taster Event
The Centre for Advanced Training are offering a FREE Open Taster Session for young people aged 11 - 17 years to take part and experience a CAT session before auditioning for the programme. The session includes a technique and creative session as well as an opportunity to watch current CAT students take class. The next Free Open Taster session will be held on 15 March 2014. E-mail cat@dance4.co.uk for more information.

Performing Arts & Music Courses/Events at Embrace Arts

• Quick Shifts Sundays 16 March and 13 April at 6pm £6 / £4 Duration: 2 hours. Edge-of-the-seat performance skilfully crafted while you watch. Sometimes beautiful, fragile and thoughtprovoking; sometimes boisterous, irreverent and energetic.
  Guaranteed are risk-taking artists instantaneously creating the performance before your very eyes, and their lively conversation with the audience.
• SPRING Sunday 23 March 12 noon – 8pm
  For 9+ years FREE workshops and performances. Embrace Arts once again welcomes the many open mic poetry groups of Leicester. Organised by Bobba Cass of Pinggg…K! There are eight workshops to choose from; surprise yourself and perform with others. This event is signed.

 

• Belly dance for beginners Mondays 7 April – 2 June (not 21 April, 5 or 26 May), 7.30pm – 8.30pm £36 for 6 sessions. Learn the sensual flowing and rhythmic bumping hip motions of Raks Sharki (the proper name for belly dance) and discover how it uses the whole body. Designed for complete beginners, this course taught by a professional belly dancer will really enhance your dancing skills.
• Singing for fun Mondays 28 April – 7 July 2014 (not 5 or 26 May), £65 / £30 for 9 sessions, 1.30pm – 3.30pm. Enjoy being part of a friendly group where the emphasis is on having fun. Ideal for all ages, whether you already love to sing or want to find your voice. Explore a repertoire of songs in a wide variety of styles and traditions, including songs from the musicals, popular classics, folk songs, part songs and comedy items. No musical knowledge necessary.

 

Embrace Arts, Richard Attenborough centre, Lancaster Road, Leicester LE1 7HA. www.embracearts.co.uk

‘How to Buy Art’ Film Launch & Networking event
As part of their Arts Council England funded 'Arts Resilience' programme, Creative Leicestershire commissioned local film makers, Catherine Baker and Ben Jacobson to create ‘How to Buy Art’- a short film aimed at encouraging people to buy  original artworks. The film showcases the varied talents of makers across the East Midlands and reassures people that buying art shouldn’t be seen as complicated or too expensive. Seen through the eyes of three buyers, the viewer gets an insight into how they buy their art and the artists skill involved in the making process.

Creative Leicestershire arec very proud to announce that the film has been nominated for an International Visual Communications and Associations Award 2014. The film is one of the many projects designed at increasing the sectors public engagement in order to highlight and ignite the wider opportunities on offer to the local creative industry. The launch of Creative Leicestershire’s ‘How to Buy Art’ film is a great networking opportunity and the chance to show your support to the creative sector and its makers. There will be a number of guest speakers offering their insight and advice, including artists and buyers featured within the film. Come to The Exchange Bar on Wednesday 2nd April 6-8pm to network and celebrate this creative collaboration, book your place here

Creative Coffee
Phoenix cafe-bar, Midland Street, Leicester LE1 1TG. Creativity, Coffee & Conversation. We're a free fortnightly networking meet-up for creative people and those looking to meet creatives. Next event Wednesday 19 March See www.creativecoffee.org.uk

Writers Meet Up Leicester
The monthly meet up sees an average of 6-10 writers from a wide range of disciplines and backgrounds come together.It is a friendly group and everybody is always made to feel welcome. Sign up to our next event by visiting our Facebook event page  where there is also a brief report about each meet up. 2014 dates: DAYTIME MEET UP 1st TUESDAY in: April, May, July, Oct, Nov at The Curve cafe. EVENING MEET UP 1st WEDNESDAY in: March, June, Sept, Dec 6pm at The Exchange

Professional Development Planning Workshop with Cathy Grindrod
Thursday 20 March 10am - 1pm. This is a FREE workshop for Creative Leicestershire subscribers. Professional Development Planning (PDP) provides an opportunity for you to explore your current position as an artist, and to gain clarity regarding future steps you might take, with the help of a guide who will assist you in the goal planning process. During the session, which will be delivered in a small group, you will look at your past journey, your present creative life balance, and how you can overcome barriers and confidence issues and identify the support you most need. Two sessions available, click the links to book, place are limited:

• Oakham, Rutland County Museum - Thursday 20 March, 10:30 - 13:00 
• Now fully booked, please email creative@leics.gov.uk if you are interested in attending the next one of these sessions

 

eCommerce for Creatives: How to start selling your stuff online
Thursday, 27 March, 12:00pm to 3:00pm, Marlene Reid Centre, Belvoir Road, Coalville, LE67 3PH. Free. Book your place here. Delivered by David James Ross. Many designers, makers and other creatives would love to start selling their wares online but don't know where to start or how to choose between the bewildering array of options. This workshop will explain all the constituent parts of online selling and make recommendations for services that suit the needs of creatives. Please bring a packed lunch with you as this session will run over lunchtime. Tea/Coffee provided. Supported by Creative Leicestershire.

Pricing Your Creative Products And Services
Thursday, 10 April 2014 from 12:00 to 3.00pm, Marlene Reid Centre, Belvoir Road, Coalville, LE67 3PH. Book your place here. Delivered by David James Ross. Most designers, makers and other creatives struggle with pricing and lack confidence that their prices are right, usually because they lack frameworks or systems to calculate the prices that will enable their businesses to be profitable, sustainable and competitive. In this workshop, you'll learn three different ways to think about your pricing and carry out exercises based on each one to calculate price ranges for your products and services. Supported by Creative Leicestershire.

An Introduction to Licensing Your Intellectual Property
Thursday, 15 May 2014, 12:00pm to 3:00pm, Atkins Building, Hinckley LE10 1QU. Free. Book your place here. Protecting And Leveraging Your Work With Intellectual Property Rights - An Introduction, delivered by David James Ross. Intellectual property is a topic that many designers, makers and other creatives find confusing. This workshops aims to untangle some of the difficulties and complications arising from intellectual property and help learners find anwers to the following questions: What is Intellectual Property? What are Intellectual Property rights? Which rights apply to our work? What strategies can we use to leverage and protect our work? Supported by Creative Leicestershire.

FREE training opportunities with Pedestrian
Pedestrian are launching a FREE training programme for creative entrepreneurs. Whether you are a graduate looking to turn your skills into employment or a creative/artist currently employed outside of your area of specialism, we aim to provide a meaningful training opportunity for 19-25 year olds interested in working in the creative industries. For more information and to apply visit the Pedestrian website. 

TMC Traineeships in the Creative Sector
16-18 years old? Currently not in employment or other education and training programme? Interested in the Creative and Cultural Sector? The Mighty Creatives (TMC) Traineeships might be for you! A Traineeship is a short programme (about 12 weeks) for those who are interested in learning a new skill needed for a particular job and would like to explore it as a career option or further training in that industry. The Traineeships TMC are offering are specifically for the Creative and Cultural Sector. You will be given an opportunity to work towards nationally-recognised qualifications, develop relevant and transferable skills, and complete work shadowing with organisations in the arts and culture sector to gain invaluable insight into the skills and attributes needed to be successful. It's all about starting you off on your career journey. Complete TMCs very short online form and they'll be in touch to let you know your options. Don't worry, you're not committing yourself to anything by filling this in, and you won't be sent any information other than about Traineeships. If you're still not sure or want to know more please email carl@themightycreatives.com or call him on 0116 2616 834.

The Pricing Toolbox: Maximise the impact of your pricing - Arts Marketing Association
Nottingham Contemporary, 7 May 10.00 - 5.00. Designed to help you review and adjust your pricing to achieve your objectives as belts tighten, this workshop will arm you with the information you need to maximise the impact of your pricing. David Reece, Director of Consulting, Baker Richards, will use a range of relevant case studies and exercises to guide you through pricing strategies and tactics. You’ll explore: price differentiation, behavioural economics, discounting, bundling, revenue management, dynamic pricing and integrated earned income strategies. This course is for people from small and medium sized organisations who can have an impact on pricing decisions. Member rate: £140 (excl VAT) Non-member rate: £200 (excl VAT) For more details and to book click here

ixia Public Art & Housing Event
Maple House, 150 Corporation Street, Birmingham, B4 6TB
Wednesday 7th May 2014; 9.00am to 4.00pm
The government’s support for the provision of private and social housing combined with its inclusion of public art, cultural well-being and good design within national planning policies and guidance is triggering opportunities and funding for artists to work with housing developers, housing associations, local councils, communities, designers and others. This event will explore the role of public art within the context of housing policies and developments. Aimed at anyone with an interest or involvement in public art and housing, the event is free but booking is essential. Tickets can be booked via Eventbrite. Refreshments and lunch will be provided. The event will be recorded for use on ixia’s websites. For more information please click here

From Data to Insight CultureHive Workshop
Wednesday 19 March 2014 Nottingham. Thinking about your last campaign, did you use data you already hold on your audiences effectively? This workshop will show you how to apply insights from a range of sources to undertake audience development campaigns.  Read more here. 

 

Training from Voluntary Action Leicestershire

• Improving Volunteering through Investing in Volunteers 18 March 10am - 12pm, John Storer House, Loughborough, LE11 3HA. This workshop is aimed at anyone who is currently managing volunteers or is thinking about developing a volunteering programme and will give participants an overview of the key areas for policies and procedures.
• Asset Transfer Webinar 19 March 10am - 11am, On your own computer. This hour-long online workshop will give you case studies of how asset transfer has been done successfully and the chance to discuss your needs with others online and with an expert facilitator.

 

• PTLLS in Seven Days (Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector) 25 March - 13 May, Voluntary Action LeicesterShire, 9 Newarke Street, Leicester, LE1 5SN. £350. The course covers the role of the teacher in facilitating learning and their legal responsibilities within a classroom setting. On completion of the course you will receive the Aim Award in Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector (PTLLS) at Level 3.
• Think Leicestershire Training 27 March 1pm - 2pm, Voluntary Action LeicesterShire. The session is aimed at anyone who wants to learn how to use the hugely successful and world renowned Go MAD Thinking Framework to solve problems, generate creative solutions, and think differently about how to make a difference to the things they care most about.

 

 

For further information & training visit the Voluntary Action Leicestershire website. 

 

Business Development Workshops from LCB Depot
All workshops will be held at LCB Depot, Leicester, LE1 1RE

• FREE* Marketing on a Shoestring Workshop Thursday, 20 March 2014 9:30am - 12:30pm, LCB Depot Leicester, LE1 1RE. The emphasis of this workshop is looking at FREE marketing opportunities creative businesses. Marketing on a shoestring will show business owners tricks and tips to get online and printed marketing for free. Attendees will leave the workshop with mini marketing strategies they can easily put into practice in the ‘real world’.  This workshop ideally suited for sole traders and new businesses that do not have the time, resources or income to spend on advertising.
• FREE* Social Media Practical Workshop Wednesday, 26 March 09:30am - 4:30pm, LCB Depot Leicester, LE1 1RE. The workshop will give attendees the opportunity to set up their own social media profiles on a number of platforms and the knowledge to successfully manage them for maximum impact. The workshop will require attendees to bring their own laptop. Attendees should leave the workshop with at least one social media profile created and a plan of how to use it effectively.

 

 

Due to funding restrictions, only businesses based within the Leicester City area will be eligible for support. You will be asked to show proof of your address at the start of the workshop. Other Support. As well as these workshops the LCB Business Development Team can also offer: 1-2-1 business coaching and advice, Seminars and social events, Incubation facilities and support for those just starting out and Grant schemes. Contact the business development team on 0116 242 2900 or e-mail develop@lcbdepot.co.uk

The Mighty Creatives: Embridge Arts Award Grant Programme 2014 – 2015
As the East Midlands Bridge organisation, The Mighty Creatives has been working to help more children and young people access more great art and culture more of the time. We have been working with Trinity College London to develop Arts Award within our region. Arts Award offers young people an inspiring arts and culture journey. Each path can take a different direction – from fashion to film-making, from dance to design, from photography to poetry. Whichever route they choose to follow, young people are always in the driving seat.

Arts Award's unique qualifications support young people to develop as artists and arts leaders. The programme develops their creativity, leadership and communication skills. This year we have developed an Arts Award Grants Programme to extend the reach of Arts Award and to further develop where and how Arts Award is being delivered to young people in the region. You can apply for up to £5,000 to help you to develop or start your Arts Award offer. To find out more and down load an application form click here. Application deadlines: Round 1 - 9am 30 April 2014 | Round 2 - 9am 30 June 2014 | Round 3: 9am 6 October 2014

Voluntary Action Leicestershire - application support
VAL offers free, confidential and impartial advice to voluntary and community groups completing funding applications. We are able to review draft funding applications, offer advice on structuring your funding bid and advise and facilitate a consortium approach. To access this service call our Helpline on 0116 257 5050 or email helpline@valonline.org.uk.

BBC Children in Need Small Grants Programme
The next deadline for applications to the BBC Children in Need Small Grants programme is the 1st April 2014. Through the Small Grants programme, funding up to £10,000 is available for projects that combat disadvantage and improve children and young people's lives. In particular, grants are available for projects that help: Children and young people experiencing illness, distress, abuse or neglect, Any kind of disability, Behavioural or psychological difficulties And / or living in situations of deprivation. Applications for funding are accepted from not for profit organisations such as registered charities; voluntary organisations; schools; churches; and community interest groups. Read more here

Grants to Help New, Innovative Visual Arts Projects
The Elephant Trust offers grants to artists and institutions (priority is given to small organisations and galleries) for new, innovative visual arts projects based in the UK. The Trust's aim is to make it possible for artists and those presenting their work to undertake and complete projects when confronted by lack of funds. The Trust supports projects that develop and improve the knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the fine arts. Priority is now being given to artists and small organisations and galleries who should submit well argued, imaginative proposals for making or producing new work or exhibitions. Arts Festivals are not supported. The Trust normally awards grants of up to £2,000, but larger grants may be considered. The next deadline for applications is the 14th April 2014. Read more here

Austin & Hope Pilkington Trust
The Austin and Hope Pilkington Trust which awards grants to registered charities in the United Kingdom has announced that the next closing date for applications is the 1st June 2014. During 2014, the Trust is seeking to fund projects that promote Music and the Arts and help the elderly. Grants are usually between £1,000 and £3,000 and are awarded for one year. Read more here

Government Growth Vouchers programme opens
The Government has launched a £30m ‘Growth Vouchers’ programme to help small British businesses grow. The programme will offer advice and guidance to businesses taking part and see subsidies of up to £2,000 offered to many to spend with advisers. It’s expected to help 20,000 of the smallest British businesses over the 15 month life of the initiative. The Enterprise Nation Marketplace is the place to find Growth Voucher advisers. Creative Leicestershire will be glad to hear of the experience of using the scheme. Let us know how it works for you.

Lloyds Banking Group Social Entrepreneurs Programme
The Lloyds Banking Group has announced that its Social Entrepreneurship programme is open for applications. The programme aims to support individuals and organisations with project ideas to improve local communities. The closing date for applications is 3pm on the 3rd April 2014. Read more here

The National portfolio and Major partner museum application process is now open for 2015 – 2018
Arts Council England have opened the application process for their national portfolio of arts organisations and museums for 2015 to 2018. They are also setting out their overall investment plans for 2015 - 2018, which include Strategic funds, museums development and Grants for the arts. The National portfolio (including Bridge organisations) and Major partner museum programmes are now open to applications. To find out more visit the ACE website.

The LOROS Accumulator Challenge
Sign up to the 2014 Accumulator Challenge to help LOROS raise the £4.5 million we need each year to continue providing our services to the people of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland! The LOROS Accumulator Challenge is so straightforward anyone can take part, whether you are a one man band or a multinational organisation. You simply sign up online and LOROS provides you with £50 which you have three months to "grow" in any way you like (as long as it is legal and ethical!) The campaign kicks off on the 11th of March 2014 for more information and to sign up please visit www.loros.co.uk or email laurabetts@loros.co.uk

Launch of the New £10 Million Enact Investment Fund for UK SMEs
The Enact Investment Fund specifically targets small and medium-sized companies with 250 employees or less. Enact will leverage the combined expertise of its investor base, comprising successful UK entrepreneurs and professionals, with experience from industry sectors such as retail, manufacturing, distribution and financial services. The Fund has a total investment pot of £10 million available. Individual equity investments will range from £250,000 to £2 million. Typical Enact equity investments are three to five years in length. Established UK-based small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) may apply. Businesses may be operating in any sector other than leasing, legal services, property development, hotels, nursing homes and insurance. Enact's investment strategy is to invest in companies have a robust business model, but are facing cash flow constraints, strategic or operational issues.

Applicants must meet the qualifying criteria for Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) investments and be demonstrate they would benefit from a hands-on investment approach. Applications may be submitted at any time, visit the Enact website to find out more.

Funding for Schools to Purchase Musical Equipment
Schools in the UK, that wish to purchase musical instruments and equipment can apply for funding of up to £2,000 through the EMI Music Sound Foundation's Instrument and/or Equipment Awards. To date the Foundations has made awards to over two thousand schools, individual students and teachers improve their access to music through the purchase or upgrade of musical instruments and equipment. The funding has to be made for music education that is beyond statutory national curriculum music teaching. The Foundation cannot fund retrospectively and schools are not eligible for financial assistance under this scheme if they have already purchased their instruments or if they do so before their application has been approved. The closing date for applications is the 10th September 2014. Read more here

Momentum Music Fund
Momentum offers grants of £5k-£15k for artists and bands to break through to the next level of their career. To find out if you, your band, or an act you represent, could be eligible for funding from Momentum read through the information below. You can also find links to the online application process. The next application deadline is 8 April 2014. Click here to see all the Momentum application deadlines for 2014.

Women Make Music
In 2010, PRS for Music Foundation launched a unique funding opportunity which invited women music creators to apply for our support. The fourth year of Women Make Music comes after hugely successful projects in 2011, 2012 and 2013. Our application deadlines in 2014 are: 28th April (for activity taking place from Aug 14) 29th Sept (for activity taking place from Jan 15) The application is a 2 stage process. Only those with successful 1st stage applications will be asked to continue on to the 2nd stage. Financial support of up to £5000 is available, and new music in any genre is welcome. Click here to find out more and apply.

The Prince's Trust Enterprise Programme
Interested in setting up your own business? If you’re aged 18-30, unemployed or working fewer than 16 hours a week, the Enterprise programme can help you decide whether self-employment is right for you. Depending on the outcome of the decision process, the Enterprise programme can then offer mentoring support and, for those that really need it, financial support to start a business or mentoring support to secure goals in employment, education, training or volunteering. The programme has a rolling deadline, more information here.

Kickstarter
Kickstarter is an exciting and rewarding platform used to fund creative projects. They're a home for everything from films, games, and music to art, design, and technology. Kickstarter is full of projects, big and small, that are brought to life through the direct support of people like you. Since their launch in 2009, 5.3 million people have pledged $894 million, funding 52,000 creative projects. Thousands of creative projects are raising funds on Kickstarter right now! Click here for more information.

Creative England Innovations and Partnerships Film Fund
Creative England is looking for companies who have new and innovative ideas for ways to help the film sector to grow and develop outside London. It is offering funding of between £10,000 and £50,000 per project. The Innovations and Partnerships Fund (£250,000 pa) is a unique opportunity to work with Creative England on original projects related to the film industry. These could support a wide range of areas from development, production and distribution to business growth, innovation, and inward investment. For more information and to apply click here.

Our Heritage
This fund is for projects that make a lasting difference for heritage, people and communities in the UK. Projects must focus on heritage, which includes many different things from the past that we value and want to pass on to future generations, for example involving people in exploring local cultures, traditions, languages and ways of life. Click here for more information.