Young artists wanted for exciting opportunity in Lowestoft Library

Suffolk Libraries is looking for young artists for its next ‘BLOC LAB’ artist residency taking place at Lowestoft Library from 18 - 22 October.

Suffolk Libraries is offering a paid, week-long residency at the library for eight emerging artists.

The LAB is an opportunity for any artists aged 18-25 to develop their practice and build new skills. The residency will encourage artists to explore the role creativity plays as a catalyst for nurturing confidence and wellbeing in the community. Suffolk Libraries will provide support throughout the week, allowing artists to build the skills necessary to navigate the cultural sector and create sustainable working practices.

This opportunity is being provided by Suffolk Libraries’ Arts Programme. In April 2018, Suffolk Libraries was awarded National Portfolio Organisation status by Arts Council England which is funding the ongoing programme of arts activities and opportunities across Suffolk’s library service.

The LAB will include inspiring workshops with invited guest speakers and artists, one-to-one advice and space to develop current work or begin a new project. The LAB is open to any Suffolk-based artists working in any creative discipline, including music, technology, paint, film, writing, theatre, dance and installations.

Artists who have taken part in previous BLOC labs said:

“Suffolk Libraries did an excellent job of supporting the artists on the residency and making a 'safe space' for honest and open discussion and development.”

> “I really valued the residency as an opportunity to take time for myself and my practice and not feel guilty about this.”

> “I definitely feel I have more ideas and feel more fulfilled as an artist. I also valued the connections I made with others. I feel more confident with talking about my work too due to the opportunity to do so on the residency.”

The deadline for applications is 6 October. You can find the full details of the residency and apply here.