Weft Studio, a talent development and network building initiative by Dublin Fringe Festival for emerging Black artists in Ireland, is open for applications.

The Weft Studio programme seeks to create a supportive community where artists can connect, have artistic conversations, and build networks with peers who share similar experiences of living in Ireland. Led by award-winning writer and creative producer Shannon Yee, Weft Studio will run from August 2023 to February 2024. The programme will consist of a group of eight artists selected through an open application process. Participants will have the opportunity to receive interventions from international mentors, enabling them to develop their creative skills and gain insights from experienced professionals in the field.

Weft Studio welcomes artists from all performance disciplines, including theatre, music, visual art, spoken word, dance, and more. The initiative is open to artists at various stages of their careers, as long as they are willing to explore new artistic territories during the programme.

Participants of Weft Studio will receive:

Financial Support: Participants will receive a fee of €3900, covering 30 days of engagement. This includes 23 Studio sessions and 7 additional preparation days.

Community Engagement: Weft Studio provides an engaged community of Black artists and artists in the global majority. Participants will have opportunities for discussions, feedback, and collaborative experimentation with their peers.

Masterclasses and Discussion Sessions: Exciting international mentors will be selected to offer masterclasses and lead discussions, tailored to support the strengths and interests of Studio participants. These sessions will provide valuable insights and guidance.

Relationship Building: Participants will have the opportunity to build a relationship with the Dublin Fringe Festival, gaining insights into the practicalities of producing work for live performance.

Exploration of Challenging Themes: Weft Studio offers access to resources featuring thematically daring artworks that examine racism and unconscious bias within the traditional artistic canon and craft.

Guidance from Shannon Yee: Facilitator Shannon Yee will provide ongoing correspondence and support throughout the Weft Studio period, from August 2023 to February 2024.

Trips and Show Discussions: Participants will have the chance to attend and discuss a range of shows at the Dublin Fringe Festival in September 2023, along with other Weft Studio participants.

Thoughtful Scheduling: Weft Studio organises a pre-arranged schedule of in-person and online meeting times, taking the needs of the group into account.

See link below for further details.