Uni graduates throwing their mortar boards in the air
Image: © Georgia Newman

IW Creative Network: Helping 18-30 year olds thrive in the Arts

For those recently graduating from University and returning to the Isle of Wight, there’s exciting news on the horizon.

Similarly, if you’re currently engaged in studies on the Island or looking for avenues into the creative industries, you might often wonder where to commence your journey.

Stepping into the creative world
Tailored explicitly for individuals aged between 18 to 30 years, a novel opportunity promises to pave the way for them into the creative business world.

Whether you’re aiming to make waves in the music scene, plunge into live performance work, venture into visual art, publishing, fashion, creative production or heritage, the IW Creative Network is ready to back you.

Tailored guidance and benefits
An enticing aspect of this initiative is the straightforward membership process.

What’s more, for a limited time, the network is offering a year’s free membership. This comes paired with a two-hour 121 session with a seasoned creative advisor, ensuring well-rounded and structured business guidance.

A chance not to be missed
A noteworthy mention is the provision of four spots for this exceptional chance.

The underlying vision behind this generous offering? The belief that young individuals on the Isle of Wight should flourish in their creative pursuits. And living on an Island or in a secluded location shouldn’t be a barrier to achieving one’s dreams.

Newman: It’s a daunting experience when you come back
Georgia Newman, founder of the IW Creative Network said,

“I know how it felt coming back to the Isle of Wight after spending years away studying and not knowing where to go first. I lived on the IW for most of my childhood and it’s a daunting experience when you come back. No one really tells you how to make those first steps into working for yourself as a freelance creative or artist.

“The IW Creative Network has been set up in such a way that no matter what stage you’re at in your creative career, there will be something for you, to help support you, whether it be creative business support, networking, building your profile, gaining funding advice or collaborating with others.

“When you’re entering the world of creative work, it is important to remain curious, ask questions, explore and experiment – that’s what we encourage creatives to do through the network, whilst also building connections and confidence in their own creative practice.”

How to be part of the revolution
To grab this chance, there’s a simple application form to complete.

Interested parties should note the approaching deadline: 1st October 2023.

Member-exclusive perks
Membership in the IW Creative Network comes brimming with advantages.

Members can look forward to visits to creative spaces and facilities in the South, receive exclusive news, attend networking functions, benefit from both online and in-person training sessions, and have unrestricted access to a plethora of recorded online training sessions. Plus, there’s the bonus of having a dedicated profile page on the Creative Directory.

For those keen to delve deeper, further information about the IW Creative Network can be found on their official website.

Membership details
A gentle reminder for potential applicants: this unique membership offer is free for the first year. Post this period, those interested in continuing with the membership can do so at £30 for the subsequent year.

The offer stands for individuals between 18-30 years of age, currently residing on the Isle of Wight, and passionate about making a mark within the creative industries.