*NEW | Artist Commissions 2024 in partnership with DanceEast

Opportunities | 2 October 2024

Artist opportunity: Artist Commissions 2024

Apply by 31 Oct 2024 11:59pm

Akademi, in partnership with DanceEast, is excited to announce the launch of four artist commissions of £5000 each, to individual artists or collectives with South Asian dance at the core of their practice. One of the four commissions will be specifically awarded to an artist working at the intersection of South Asian dance and creative technology.

Recognising the need for more opportunities to create work within the sector, these commissions aim to expand possibilities, build collaborations, develop rigorous practices and nurture emerging talent.

With a commission around creative technology, we seek to encourage innovation and explore the exciting prospects of combining traditional dance forms with cutting-edge technology.

Selected artists will have the opportunity to use the fund to explore new ideas that are bold, relevant, and exciting, and that align with Akademi’s vision and work.

We would like artists to explore the following themes that align with our mission and vision for this commission:

  • Sustainability
  • Environment
  • Climate change
  • Climate-driven migration
  • Health and well-being

While other themes can be a part of the work, the central theme/idea should be inspired by at least one of the above.

Through our Artist Surgeries, we have engaged with dance practitioners to understand their needs and challenges. The insights gained from these conversations have informed the development of these commissions, ensuring that they provide meaningful and impactful support to artists.

Download the information pack with FAQs (1MB)
Application form (Google Forms)
Equal opportunities and diversity form

Akademi is committed to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.

If you’d like this call-out in any other accessible format, please get in touch with us.

Last date to apply – 31 October
Information sessions (on Zoom) – 14 October at 1pm Sign up
and 23 October at 5:30pm Sign up
Notification to shortlisted candidates – 11 November
Interviews (on Zoom)- 19 & 20 November
Announcement of final selection – 2 December

Each of the 4 artists or collectives will be offered £5000 including VAT if applicable.

Additional bespoke support for each artist/collective:

  • 2  weeks of studio space in 2025 at Dance East, Ipswich
  • Contribution towards travel and accommodation costs to support the studio weeks at Dance East
  • Mentoring/advice from Akademi and Dance East
  • Sharing opportunities with local communities and audiences (to be decided between Akademi, Dance East and the commissioned artists)
  • Additional support will be made available for access requirements (to be discussed with the concerned individual(s) based on their needs)

Additionally, the tech commission artist will be offered:

12 months.

This can be extended based on the project.  A clear and defined timeframe will be agreed on between Akademi and the artist(s) along with the terms of the commission.

For any information please contact our Programmes Coordinator, Kavya Iyer on kavya@akademi.co.uk or write to us on info@akademi.co.uk

Who is this opportunity for?

  • Would like to develop as choreographers and dance makers
  • Have a practice rooted in any form of South Asian dance
  • Have some professional experience of choreography having already created one or two works that have been performed in a public setting
  • Are over the age of 18 and not in formal education or training
  • Are residents or have the right to work in the United Kingdom.

Opportunities
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