Arts Council England is in full swing celebrating the National Lottery’s 30th Anniversary this week, and I can’t think of a better moment to share my journey and offer advice to anyone considering applying for an Arts Council Grant Award.
After more than 20 years of an exciting and varied career in design, I took an 18-month career break to have my son. Returning to work after what felt like an eternity away from the studio, I was determined not only to pick up where I left off but to continue growing in my career. I was eager to embrace new tools, particularly emerging software and AI applications that could enhance project workflows in fields like Exhibition and Experiential Design. My goal was clear: to diversify the ways I worked and ensure my skills remained relevant in a rapidly evolving industry.
Balancing the demands of family life with a commitment to advancing my career was no small feat. Like many parents, I quickly realized that time—once an abundant resource—was now a precious commodity. To progress, I knew I needed to rethink how to approach professional development creatively and efficiently.
That’s when I discovered the Developing Your Creative Practice (DYCP) scheme from Arts Council England. This program provided the time and resources I needed to focus on my self-development and dive deeply into areas critical to the future of design. It enabled me to allocate dedicated time each week to advancing my knowledge and skills in transformative ways.
The outcomes have far surpassed my expectations. This journey has not only broadened my technical expertise but also connected me with extraordinary talent across various design sectors. Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of contributing to incredible global projects, enriching my career in ways I could never have imagined.
To help others considering an application, here are a few key pieces of advice:
1. Be Thorough in Your Application
Invest the time to deeply understand your project’s purpose and how you will execute it. Clarity is essential. The most challenging part of the application process is refining your responses—focus on crafting succinct, impactful answers. Every word matters, so ensure your submission is as sharp and precise as possible.
2. Allocate Time to Research
Take the time to study previous award winners' case studies. This will help you understand the structure of successful projects, including how to plan, execute, and measure outcomes. Case studies can also inspire you to identify the impact your project could have on yourself, your industry, or your community.
3. Master the Art of Concision
The application process demands precision. With strict word limits, you must be ruthless in editing your responses to ensure they focus solely on the most essential, measurable, and impactful points. While this might seem straightforward, it can actually be one of the most challenging parts of the process. Carefully refine your answers to strike a balance between clarity and depth, making every word count.
4. Seek Help and Advice
One of the most invaluable resources during the application process is the team at Arts Council England. Their grant experts are incredibly knowledgeable, approachable, and thorough. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions—they’re there to guide you. Make use of their expertise to review your application, clarify details on the funding portal, and ensure everything is in order before submission.
Remember to allow yourself ample time to revisit and refine your application multiple times before the deadline. This iterative process can make a significant difference in the quality and clarity of your proposal.
Above all, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Arts Council England for their support—not only for my projects but for countless others. The impact of their backing goes far beyond the financial; it inspires growth, creativity, and confidence in individuals at every stage of their journey.
If you have any questions about my experience or would like to discuss a project, I’d be delighted to connect.
Sallyann Mason - Creative Director
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