FTP Cohort: Artist Development Programme
FTP Cohort is an artist development programme at Phoenix, focusing on the use of new technologies in arts practice. The programme will run over a six-month period, and includes training, mentorship, opportunities to exhibit work and seed funding for creating new work and making funding applications.
Training will be delivered by experienced artists from the East Midlands, exploring different technologies, strategies and issues related to digital-based art practices.
Each session will focus on a particular tool, piece of software or process used by the artist. Participants will be encouraged to experiment with this through beginner exercises and project ideas.
Participants will also be invited to join discussion groups and meet-ups to encourage a community ethos and peer-to-peer development.
Interested artists do not need a background in digital arts, simply a willingness to engage openly and critically with digital issues and media.
The programme will offer exhibition opportunities and support the development of funding applications with match funding and a production budget available toward the end of the programme.
We particularly encourage applications from artists who identify as part of groups underrepresented in the creative and cultural fields.
FTP Cohort will run from April 2021 through to October 2021.
The programme will most likely be delivered online initially, moving to in-person when conditions allow.
FTP is an acronym for File Transfer Protocol. This is a standard Internet protocol used to transmit and exchange large amounts of data and information over a network. We chose this as a name to represent our ambitions for creating a network of artists sharing information and ideas.
Please send a short statement or video (250 words / 2 minutes) expressing why you want to join FTP Cohort and what you’d like to get from it, using this form:
You will also be asked to complete our Equal Opportunities Monitoring form which is anonymous and will not be used in the selection process.
Application Criteria
-This opportunity is primarily for Leicester/shire based artists, but we do accept applications from anyone based in the East Midlands.
-This opportunity is open to all ages 18+ and all experience levels.
-We aim to facilitate a peer-to-peer learning environment, accessible to everyone. If you have specific access requirements, please let us know.
-For online sessions we will most likely be using Zoom.
-We will focus on using tools that are free and open-source (FOSS).
What is included?
-Monthly meetups with a range of speakers.
-Online activity space for shared research and resources. (probably Trello or Discord)
-Peer support and feedback opportunities
-Technical support from Phoenix Creative team.
Dependent on COVID-19 restrictions:
-Free access to Interact Labs (a studio space equipped with digital technology)
What is the selection process?
The deadline for applications has been extended to midnight 28th March.
Applications will be reviewed by Phoenix.
We will aim to talk to shortlisted applicants by 2nd April.