Highland, Islands and Moray artists and craftsmakers eligible for Creative Scotland bursary

Artists and craft makers across the Highlands, Moray and the Western Isles are being invited to apply for bursaries of up to £750 for their creative development.

The Visual Artist and Craft Makers Awards (VACMA) are funded by Creative Scotland in partnership with Inverness Museum and Art Gallery (IMAG) and can support artists at all stages of their career.

IMAG exhibitions officer Cathy Shankland said: “We are delighted to be able to offer these awards to artists in the north again this year with the continued support of Creative Scotland.

“They are an invaluable resource for the local arts community and bursaries can help artists in many ways from researching a new body of work, experimenting with new materials, attending courses, artistic mentoring, or masterclasses and residencies.”

VACMA offers fixed bursaries of £500 and £750. The £500 bursary is specifically for early-career artists and aims to support them to become more established in their practice.

Interim director of arts and engagement at Creative Scotland, Joan Parr, said: “We are excited to work with partners across Scotland to offer VACMA bursaries in 24 local authority areas.

“These bursaries provide valuable local support to artists and makers to develop their creative practice and contribute to the overall strength and diversity of visual art and craft practice at both a local and national level.”

The awards are made possible with support from the National Lottery through Creative Scotland and through the resources of the local partners.

For guidance and application forms, visit: www.highlifehighland.com/vacma or for more information, email cathy.shankland@highlifehighland.com

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