Creative careers take off with new training scheme

The Plymouth-based arts company which created last year’s smash hit Fish-Hearted Bride show in the National Marine Aquarium tank is offering unique training for young people aged 16 – 25.

Award-winning company Effervescent, which works across design, marketing, theatre, visual arts and event production, has teamed up with Plymouth University’s School of Art & Media and Peninsula Arts to support talented youngsters and boost their creative careers.

INCUBATE is a bespoke training scheme that will help A Level students boost their grades, help young people re-enter education or work, and uplift everyone’s confidence and skills. 

INCUBATE trainees will take part in a year-long programme of workshops, creative project work, arts events, and visits to regional and national art exhibitions which can boost their knowledge and skills, giving them the edge in job interviews and university applications.  They will also have a chance to work on supporting and curating professional exhibitions and events at Peninsula Arts and at Effervescent. 

Effervescent’s Artistic Director Eloise Malone said, “We’re very excited about this new partnership which will incubate the next generation of creatives in Plymouth.  We have a long track record in helping young people develop through extraordinary arts projects, and Effervescent is all about innovative ways to improve young people’s life chances.”

The training will mainly take place at Effervescent’s new art gallery and studio space on Derry’s Cross, which is due to open to the public in April.

Fine Art students from the University will be mentoring and coaching the young people whilst developing their own professional practice in socially-engaged arts work.

Peninsula Arts Director Sarah Chapman said, “Peninsula Arts and Plymouth University are delighted to be working with Effervescent to support young people just starting their creative careers.  This is about growing young talent, cultivating the skills base in the city, and supporting local innovation.”

The project has been supported by BIG Lottery, Arts Council England and Plymouth University, and is completely free to take part. 

Young people aged 16–24 can apply through the projects section on Effervescent’s website www.eff.org.uk. 

Closing date for applications is Monday 27 January 2014.