Apply for the Diverse Critics scheme

At The Skinny, we're always excited to hear from new voices, and to offer a platform for people to share their analysis on the artistic world around them. So it's a bit of an early Christmas present to be able to announce our involvement in Diverse Critics – a new scheme from Disability Arts Online and Creative Scotland.

The programme, which runs from February to June 2020, will offer four £1500 bursaries for emerging disabled writers based in Scotland, as well as a comprehensive programme of mentoring and assignments. There will also be workshops on everything from pitching and interview techniques to managing a portfolio career. We'll be publishing the work of the Diverse Critics in The Skinny, both in print and online.

Announcing the project, Disability Arts Online's chief executive Trish Wheatley says: “Disabled people are massively underrepresented across the arts sector, and this is felt just as keenly within arts criticism. It’s our modus operandi to bring disability perspectives on arts and culture to make for a more vibrant, diverse and inclusive sector. That’s why we’re excited to be working with Creative Scotland and The Skinny to develop a cohort of new voices, building sustainable careers for them and bringing fresh perspectives for audiences.”

How to Apply

Participants in the Diverse Critics scheme can specialise in any art form, or write across different art forms, but they must be based in Scotland and identify as disabled. Following the social model of disability, a disabled person is defined as anyone who faces barriers as a result of impairment (sensory, physical or mental), long-term illness or health issues. This also includes those who identify as D/deaf, neurodiverse or have experienced mental health issues. 

To apply, you'll need to send the following: 

– One example of your arts writing, original or previously published.
– An original idea for an opinion piece, feature or interview and how you’d approach it
– A short note explaining why you are interested in the opportunity and what you think you will get out of it 
– Information on any access requirements you would have to be able to attend the course  

Full details on how to apply, and contact details for your application and any further information, can be found on the Disability Arts Online website. The application deadline is 20 Jan at 5pm.