how to apply for the scheme

Please note that this year's schemes will run from October 2006 to April 2007. If you wish to be kept informed about future schemes you can add your name to our email list by emailing us at: AA2A@wendymason.biz

Eligibility

  • Artists must not have been engaged in full or part time study at an art college or similar institution in the last year
  • Artists must have their own place of work and be able to work with minimal technical support (unless specific training is offered by the college)
  • Artists who were on AA2A schemes run from 2003 to 2004 or before can now reapply i.e. artists may only apply every three years.

Application procedure

  • Contact the college to get an information pack and application form. These should arrive no later than the first week in August
  • Application deadines vary between colleges but none are earlier than 31 August
  • If applying to more than one college applicants may take only one place
  • Relevant staff from the college and an independent panel member will meet to assess the suitability of the applications
  • Selected artists will be invited to the college to discuss their proposal with relevant staff and technicians with the aim of negotiating an access agreement which suits both parties
  • Firm offers will be made to those artists whose proposals can be accommodated

Selection criteria

  • The project aims to ensure that all artists are encouraged to take part in the schemes regardless of gender, race, nationality or ethnic origin, religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, class or age
  • The selection of artists will be on the basis of commitment, need, ability to make best use of the opportunity. Also the suitability of their proposal and their professionalism as an artist
  • Artists applying for the scheme will be expected to show evidence of at least *one years professional practice (not necessarily as a self employed person). *(see note 1 below)

Note 1 : * exception to selection criteria Research shows that artists with disabilities often experience difficulties getting exhibitions and other employment opportunities, so they cannot fulfil this criteria. If you feel that you have a disability which has impeded your ability to fulfil this criteria then you can ask that this be disregarded. You will then be required to demonstrate that you have sustained a professional attitude and commitment to your work over the same period.

The application form

This is only available from the individual colleges. It asks for the following information:-

  • Do you have any previous experience / knowledge of art college/school environments?
  • Which of the departments facilities / equipment do you think you would want to use during the access period and describe your level of experience using these types of equipment?
  • Do you have any preferred days or hours of access?
  • Describe briefly how this opportunity will enable you to develop your work.
  • In approximately 200 words describe the type of work/project you want to use the facilities for and how that relates to your work generally.
  • Please send a CV, up to 10 (returnable) visuals and one (non-returnable) photograph of your work

Colleges who are interested in hosting an AA2A scheme should contact the National Coordinator Wendy Mason by emailing AA2A@wendymason.biz

For a list of this year's participating colleges click here

Untitled by Paul Jaques. Photo the artist.
Midge I by Alexe Dilworth. Photo the artist.
James by Lucy Gough. Photo the artist.