Membership to the IW Creative Network is back, one year on from its launch in 2022.
The IW Creative Network brings artists, makers and creative professionals together to help develop their business and creative skills.
There are almost 100 members including those working in visual arts, sound production, carnival art, music, performance, literature and more.
What does it offer?
When you join the IW Creative Network, you’ll have access to:
- All of the archived Creative Zoom Session recordings
- Invitation to attend all NEW live Creative Zoom Sessions this year
- Attend away-days across the Solent to cultural and creative spaces
- Networking events on the Island
- Create your own public Profile page on the Website’s Creative Directory
- Monthly e-newsletters on cultural and creative news, resources and opportunities in the region
- Apply for special opportunities throughout the year to help develop your creative practice (more details on the special opportunities and programme of events will be announced soon on the Website and via social media)
Apply anytime
There’s no deadline to apply to become a member – anyone can join at any time, but there will be specific deadlines to apply for special opportunities throughout the year which you need to be a member of the IW Creative Network in order to apply.
IW Creative Network founder, Georgia Newman, told News OnTheWight,
“Last year members benefited in so many ways, so we are thrilled to be able to continue the network beyond 2022 to support more individuals through talent development, networking and profiling.
“Through partnering with The Island Collection, a sector support organisation on the Island, their successful NPO (National Portfolio Organisation) application to the Arts Council includes the support and development of the IW Creative Network from April 2023 – April 2026.”
Owen: Nurturing creative talent a priority for future success and prosperity
Janet Owen, Island Collection – Executive Director, said,
“As the Island’s new Cultural Strategy starts to take shape, it is increasingly clear that nurturing creative talent on the Island, both emerging and established, is a priority for future success and prosperity.
“The IW Creative Network will continue to play an increasingly important role in this area, providing business development and networking support.
“Its synergies with the wider strategic cultural advocacy and facilitation role of The Island Collection and will form the basis of a strong and fruitful partnership.”
Bright future
So for the next three years, the network will aim to grow and support even more creatives on the Island thrive.
Georgia added,
“You might have just graduated and returned to the Island, but not sure who to connect with, or maybe you’re making work but lacking a bit of confidence in closing sales, or you might want to connect with other creatives and find out what else is going on culturally on the Island and across the Solent.
“Whatever stage you’re at, there will be something for you to help develop your talent, grow your creative business and refine your artistic voice! Just go to the Website and once joined, you can apply for special opportunities and receive invitations to special events throughout the year.”
How to join or renew your membership
To join, new members just need to visit the Website and create their new account.
Existing members just need to log in and renew their account to continue being a member.
Membership fee is £30 for the year – that’s less than the price of one coffee a month.
Don’t forget the admin
Once paid you just need to wait for the confirmation payment email which will give you a link to fill out a short online membership form.
There’s no deadline to do this but it will complete your application for membership. And that’s it.
