Creative future, brighton

Creative Future, Brighton: Empowering Underrepresented Artists

Creative Future is a non-profit organization based in Brighton, UK that supports underrepresented artists and writers. The organization was founded in 2007 with the aim of providing a platform for talented artists who face barriers to accessing the mainstream art world due to their socio-economic background, disability, mental health issues or other factors.

Creative Future's mission is to empower these artists by providing them with training, mentoring and opportunities to showcase their work. The organization believes that everyone should have access to the arts regardless of their background or circumstances. Creative Future works towards creating a more inclusive and diverse arts sector by promoting underrepresented voices.

One of Creative Future's key specialisms is working with underrepresented writers. The organization runs an annual writing competition called 'The Creative Future Literary Awards' which aims to discover and promote new writing talent from underrepresented communities across the UK. Winners receive cash prizes as well as professional development opportunities such as mentoring from established writers.

In addition to the literary awards, Creative Future also offers a range of other services for writers including workshops on creative writing techniques, editing skills and publishing advice. These workshops are designed for both emerging and established writers who want to develop their craft further.

Creative Future also provides support for visual artists through its 'Mentoring Programme'. This programme pairs emerging artists with experienced mentors who provide guidance on developing their artistic practice as well as advice on navigating the art world.

The organization has had significant success in supporting underrepresented artists over the years. Many of its alumni have gone on to achieve great things in their respective fields including publishing books, exhibiting artwork internationally and winning prestigious awards such as The Jerwood/FVU Awards.

One example is poet Tommy Sissons who won first prize at The Creative Future Literary Awards 2019 for his poem 'A Man Who Wasn't There'. Tommy has since been commissioned by BBC Radio 4's Poetry Please and has had his work published in various literary magazines.

Another success story is visual artist Sarah Craske who was mentored by established artist Alison Lapper MBE through Creative Future's Mentoring Programme. Sarah went on to exhibit her artwork at the prestigious Royal Academy of Arts in London and has since been commissioned to create public art installations across the UK.

Creative Future's impact goes beyond just supporting individual artists. The organization also works towards creating a more inclusive arts sector by advocating for change within the industry. Creative Future campaigns for greater diversity and representation in the arts, calling for more opportunities for underrepresented artists to showcase their work and have their voices heard.

In conclusion, Creative Future is an inspiring organization that is making a real difference in the lives of underrepresented artists across the UK. Through its training, mentoring and opportunities, it is empowering these artists to achieve their full potential and helping to create a more diverse and inclusive arts sector. If you are an underrepresented artist or writer looking for support, then Creative Future could be just what you need to take your career to the next level.