Freelance creatives across Hull and East Yorkshire will benefit from a new range of events and consultations to support them to develop, delivered by artist-led not-for-profit, We Are Creative.
Made possible through support from HEY Creative, this initiative enables We Are Creative to undergo a period of organisational development while launching a series of networking events and in-depth consultations. The project aims to identify the professional development and training needs of freelancers across the region, while strengthening the vital links between independent artists, regional organisations, and funders.
Strengthening the freelance voice
Founded in 2020 as a response to freelance artists expressing artists expressing a sense of isolation, a lack of professional support and the need better representation, We Are Creative now supports over 180 members.
Rupert Creed, We Are Creative Steering Group member, said:
“This support will provide a platform and voice for the many freelance creatives across Hull and East Yorkshire. The partnership with HEY Creative offers the opportunity for artists, writers, performers and producers to connect better with one another, as well as with arts organisations and funding bodies. It’s about joined-up strategies to help grow the arts for everyone.”
A vital workforce:
Freelancers represent a significant portion of the cultural economy, making up to 50% of the sector’s workforce. Max May, HEY Creative Chief Officer underlines the importance of developing the freelance sector and its voice: “freelancers are vital to our sector. HEY Creative is committed to advocating and growing our Hull and East Yorkshire’s incredible arts, culture and heritage, and ensuring we have a strong and coordinated voice around freelance support and development needs is key to how we listen and respond”.
Upcoming event: ‘We Want to Know You’
WAC will be holding its first 2025 network event at 6:30pm on Wednesday 12th March at the Edge Hub in Hull. It will feature:
- Freelancer consultation survey launch: introduction of a new survey to shape future support.
- Guest speakers: the team from Back to Ours (Hull-based Arts Council funded organisation) will share insights into how they commission projects and artists.
- Networking: an opportunity to meet the WAC team and fellow regional creatives.
Tickets: the event is free to attend. Sign up and find out more information here.