IGNITE!

New scheme launches to IGNITE support for artists in Oxfordshire

Cornerstone Arts Centre in Didcot and The Beacon in Wantage have joined forces to launch IGNITE: a new scheme giving artists free access to professional spaces, support and opportunities to develop and share their work.

Many creatives work independently and can find it difficult to access the facilities, networks and platforms needed to reach new audiences and take the next step in their work. The scheme has been created to support a wide range of artists who live or work in Oxfordshire by providing free creative spaces and helping people connect, collaborate and grow their practice.

The venues will offer artists a range of studio spaces for rehearsal, creating, testing and sharing work. This will be alongside other opportunities including exhibitions, performances, mentoring and marketing support. Whether presenting work for the first time, returning to practice after a break, or looking for a new creative home, artists from all backgrounds and disciplines are encouraged to apply.

Artists will apply through a short online form. Applications will be reviewed by a selection panel, with successful applicants invited to join the scheme and request space through a booking form. The scheme is free to take part in, and spaces are limited. Priority will be given to artists aged 18+ living or working in South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse, with applications from artists based elsewhere in Oxfordshire also considered where space allows.

Successful applicants will join a pool of artists able to request free rehearsal, studio or development space across the two venues during off-peak hours. Artists can access up to 50 hours of room hire over a 12-month period, subject to space and staff availability.

Cornerstone Arts Centre is owned and managed by South Oxfordshire District Council, while The Beacon is owned and managed by Vale of White Horse District Council. Both venues are at the heart of their local communities, bringing people together through performances, classes, exhibitions and creative activities. They champion the positive role the arts can play in health, happiness and quality of life, something increasingly reflected in wider conversations around arts, culture and wellbeing.

IGNITE builds on this shared commitment by creating more opportunities for artists working across performing, visual, written and interdisciplinary arts, while strengthening connections within Oxfordshire’s creative community.

Cllr Georgina Heritage, Cabinet Member for Communities at South Oxfordshire District Council, said: “I’m so excited that we’re able to introduce this brilliant new initiative. Artists do not always know where to begin when looking for support or opportunities to share their work. Cornerstone can be that welcoming first step and IGNITE is a brilliant way to open up new conversations, build connections and help creative ideas grow.”

Cllr Helen Pighills, Cabinet Member for Community Health and Wellbeing at Vale of White Horse District Council added: “The Beacon has an important place in the cultural life of the Vale, and I’m delighted it will be part of IGNITE. I’m really looking forward to seeing the ideas, collaborations and creative work that grow from the scheme and the opportunities it will create for artists across Oxfordshire.”

Applications for IGNITE open on Wednesday 3 June and will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with no fixed closing date.

For more information and to apply, visit The Beacon or Cornerstone website.