Visual artists and craft makers who live or have a studio in East Dunbartonshire are being invited to apply for a bursary to boost their creative and professional development.
External funding has been secured to provide fixed grants of £500 or £1,000 to help inspire and support local talents.
East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust (EDLCT) has teamed up with Creative Scotland to deliver the Visual Artist and Craft Maker Awards (VACMA).
For more information, an application form and eligibility guidance, please visit the EDLC website.
The deadline for submissions is 5pm on 2 February 2027.
VACMA is supported by Creative Scotland through funding from The National Lottery.
The bursaries are designed to help artists and craft makers to grow, develop their practice and take the next step in their professional journey.
Funding can be used for a range of activities, including:
- Training and learning
- Mentoring and skills development
- Exploring new ideas, techniques, materials and/or creative approaches
- Research and development
- Sustainable practices
- Residencies
- Essential equipment.
Creating new work for an exhibition or public presentation.
Alan Wright, Chair of EDLCT, said, "We're delighted we have been able to partner with Creative Scotland to provide this exciting support for artists and craft makers in East Dunbartonshire.
"As well as offering first-class services and facilities, the Trust is committed to helping to inspire and support the many talented people who live and create work locally."
To be eligible, you must:
- Live or maintain a studio space in East Dunbartonshire
- Work in the visual art or craft artforms
- Have submitted an End of Project Report if you are a previous VACMA recipient
- Not be a full-time student.
Part-time students can apply, but must:
- Provide evidence of part-time status
- Confirm the activity does not contribute toward academic studies.
VACMA will give priority to applications that clearly demonstrate creative development, a project plan and a commitment to practice.
For more information, an application form and eligibility guidance, please visit the EDLC website.
Sarah MacIntyre, Visual Arts Officer at Creative Scotland, said,
These grants provide vital support for artists and craft makers, giving them the space and opportunity to explore ideas, develop their skills and experiment with new approaches.
“The bursaries make a valuable contribution to Scotland’s creative landscape, offering an accessible and inclusive route to public funding while helping artists and makers take their practice in exciting new directions.”
Creative Scotland is the public body that supports culture and creativity across all parts of Scotland, distributing funding provided by the Scottish Government and The National Lottery. Further information on the Creative Scotland website. Follow Creative Scotland on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
