Published 31 January 2023

Artists and Craft Makers in West Dunbartonshire are being urged to apply for new funding being launched by West Dunbartonshire Council.

The Visual Artists and Craft Makers Awards (VACMA), a new funding stream of small grants, is now open to artists living or working in West Dunbartonshire. In collaboration with West Dunbartonshire Council, Creative Scotland is financing these awards with money from the National Lottery.

The Council, alongside Creative Scotland, is keen to support local artists based in West Dunbartonshire at all stages of their career by offering fixed bursaries of £500 or £750.  

Councillor Martin Rooney, Convenor of Cultural Services said, “This is fantastic news for all practising artists living or working in West Dunbartonshire. It’s vital that we celebrate creativity and pursue every opportunity to keep the arts integrated within the area. This bursary will give a boost to those artists living or working here to keep on creating exciting and imaginative work.”

Councillor June McKay, depute Convenor of Cultural services said, “This funding will help us not only offer support through the bursary but also identify local talent. We’re really pleased that this is now available to everyone, no matter what stage or level they’re at. We hope to see some amazing work generated with the support of this funding.

Sarah MacIntyre, Visual Arts Officer at Creative Scotland says: “We are delighted to be partnering with West Dunbartonshire Council to provide funding for artists and makers based in the local area. Visual Artist and Craft Makers Awards provide vital access to local support for artists and makers at all stages in their career. Whether testing new ideas, developing their skills, accessing mentorship or generating new work, VACMA enables artists and makers to expand and strengthen their creative practice and generates long-lasting benefits in the local area.”  

Next Deadline for Applications

Winter deadline: 5pm, Tuesday 14th March