OPEN CALL – Commission Opportunity – For Solidarity
DEADLINE: Wednesday 20 November, midday
We invite artists to apply for a commission opportunity to explore ideas of solidarity, social justice or climate justice in response to NewBridge’s ongoing project For Solidarity.
This opportunity has emerged from the work of The NewBridge Project and the Solidarity Economy Association. Both organisations have been collaborating to create a useful tool that can make visible and strengthen all of the organisations, projects, initiatives and individuals in the region who are offering an alternative to the extractive and oppressive mainstream economic system.
In short, we have created a map of everything that is helping people to meet their material and social needs in ways that don’t harm people or the planet and in ways that are contributing to building a more just and sustainable world.
What we are looking for
We are interested in an idea or a project that critically explores ideas of solidarity and/or the role of art in the solidarity economy. Projects should be co-created alongside a local community group or a local organisation based in Newcastle upon Tyne and be mutually beneficial to both artist and group. This could be an initiative who is already on the map, or groups and organisations based in Newcastle who you feel share the same values as the Solidarity Economy and should be recognised on the map.
One of the most important things to understand about the solidarity economy is that no matter where it is, or what it looks like, it can be identified because the actors within it all share a commitment to pursuing a set of values. This is a commitment to equal decision-making, active opposition to all forms oppression, ecological sustainability, acting in solidarity, fostering a variety of approaches, and system change.
We welcome ideas in partnership with a particular group or organisation, however the group you intend to work with doesn’t have to be fully formed as we understand that new initiatives are forming every day. Ideas can be submitted without a specific group in mind and we are open to discussing ways of linking you with groups who might be interested in working with you on your project.
For Solidarity has been extended at The NewBridge Project: Gateshead gallery space until Friday 8 November. If you have the opportunity, we highly recommend you visit the exhibition which will give you an insight into the various organisations we have been working with so far.
If you have any questions about the exhibition or the map, please feel free to contact our Programme Director Niomi Fairweather at n.fairweather@thenewbridgeproject.com.
Budget
£8000
This overall budget covers research, development, artist fees, travel and expenses, production and materials.
We can support you to find affordable accommodation options if you are not based in the North East, but this must come from the above fee.
We will also provide support through the use of a studio, making, workshop space at The NewBridge Project.
There will also be a separate budget to support the group you are working with and this could be used to cover costs relating to capacity, resources and facilities.
Timeline
January – April 2020 (with planning in December 2019)
Within this timeframe we would expect the successful applicant to spend enough time working with the group to will allow mutual relationships to develop. Please explain your approach to this in your application.
How to Apply
We are asking for initial expressions of interest to include:
- A project proposal (no more than 2 pages of A4) to include:
- Your interest in the commission, and initial ideas and approach for the project and building relationships
- A draft timeline for the project and an indication of your time commitment
- A draft budget
- An artist CV (separate to the 2 pages)
Please send your application to applications@thenewbridgeproject.com
If you have any questions please get in touch with us on the email above, or on 0191 232 8975 / 0191 477 1884
Key Dates
Deadline: Wednesday 20 November, midday
