If you’re a regular here you’ll know that one of the highlights of 2022/3 was taking part in the CREATE Programme at Birmingham’s STEAMhouse. It was a learning journey that taught me about digitalisation, production methods and new ways to market my artwork. I loved it!
So, when STEAMhouse advertised a six month funded maker space scheme I quickly applied. To give the ending away early: my application was unsuccessful for the six month funding programme. However, as a finalist an offer came over for a one month funded maker and production space option. It’s delighting to have that option and exciting to maximise it.
Embarking on any application process is daunting, before putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) the lurking fear of failure threatens to derail the whole process. In this instance not only had I seen the direct email from the STEAMhouse mailing list, several colleagues had also pinged me the opp via DM. The feeling that other people also see an opportunity for you has always helped me feel more confident in my actions.
The Seed of Inspiration:
Every creative project begins with a spark of inspiration. For me, the idea of a mini-maker residency offered a chance to push through artist block via working in a community setting. It’s great to focus alone sometimes, other times we need to step out of our way via collaboration. The first step in any application is to clarify the proposal.
Crafting a Compelling Proposal:
Funding applications rely on well thought out proposals. This is a big struggle for many artists, myself included. In this instance my research involved sitting in my studio and working out what I could add to my existing solo show body by access to production space.
Looking at the mixed media works sitting there, where I’d combined laser etching, oil painting and CNC cuts it seemed right to apply. My proposal was to continue the series via CNC cut wood engraved on the laser, to use the thermo-charred cladding as a compliment to the bright oil paintings.
The goal was to create 12 pieces to go into the 25 piece series for exhibition. It would involve 3 days per week over six months working in the production space using CNC and Laser machines plus studio time to refine the works with oil paint. My materials budget has been funded already which took the pressure off on that front.
Application Process:
The application process itself was straightforward. It was a summary of the intentions on a form plus supporting statements. The online application was followed up after around a week by a telephone call confirming an invitation to interview. The interview was informal and via video.
Remote interviews do terrify me slightly as following the body language of multiple speakers, plus identifying the cues for when to speak is a lot harder via video. I felt that my effort was OK (but not totally on it) and was pleased to have made it to the final interviews. Your gut feeling is often right in these cases and my gut was telling me that my proposal was not the right fit for the opportunity.
Celebrating Success:
Within a few days of the interview the moment arrived when I received the news that a month’s funding was on offer as a consolation prize. It was a moment of joy for me! Honestly, it’s so great to have an opportunity to work in the space again.
Adjusting the Proposal:
Six months allows for time to experiment, one month means total focus. Having been awarded the maker space for January it exciting to hone the proposal to suit the new, constricted timeline. The aim is to get two pieces created, solely in etched and CNC cut thermochar. They will be a great compliment to the oil paintings and it’s a realistic goal to set.
Securing the funding for this mini-maker slot has been a journey of persistence. It also emphasises the importance of being humble and celebrating the small wins. As I look forward to starting on my two new pieces I’m grateful for the opportunity to work once again in a collaborative, creative setting in one of my favourite cities, Birmingham.
Creativity here I come!
REFERENCE LINKS
STEAMhouse Birmingham | More than just office space!
Charlie Kirkham 
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