ArtsMatrix - Support for Artists & Performers

Launched by Arts Council England, South West, ArtsMatrix is an information and advice service for artists, craftspeople and performers of every kind. With five Co-ordinators based in arts organisations around the South West, the service is designed to help creative practitioners define their goals and plan their future development, both through formal and informal approaches.

The Co-ordinators can help with queries about training, networking, associations, business development and other resources across all art forms as well as offering a more in-depth individual career path assessment. Totally free of charge, this consists of up to three one-to-one sessions during which practitioners can explore their creative directions. This is a chance for practitioners to look back on and assess their creative development to date, discuss their goals and ambitions, and examine the different routes available for taking their work forward.

ArtsMatrix is extremely flexible and the sessions are shaped in a way that's responsive to the individual's needs. Many practitioners are reporting that the information they receive is useful, but it's the feeling of being listened to and supported as they work through questions and issues affecting their creative direction that's valuable. These issues are not always work-related. Sometimes, the routes forward don't involve changing practice, but can mean subtly shifting focus - there are no fixed goals or outcomes with ArtsMatrix. Importantly, practitioners seem to agree that the experience of having their own space to talk about and reflect upon their practice feels like a positive luxury.

Some comments from artists who have used the service:-

"A most committed and relevant service given on an appropriately personal level"

"A great idea and of tremendous benefit to arts practitioners"

"The advisor was knowledgeable and very helpful - also understanding and very encouraging"

"This is a great resource. I almost can't believe that it has been possible to sit down and discuss my career at length with someone who understands what I'm talking about. And all for free too - brilliant!"

"I found my Co-ordinator exceptionally informative, observant and friendly and the whole process life-enhancing"

"Thanks for cutting through the multi-layered complications of my working life with such assurance, positivity, clarity and understanding. Came in dispirited and disheartened - going out with head held high"