An open call for young artists making things happen in difficult times.
Start application ↓Twenty-something is a new publication about young artists, the work they make, and the reality of trying to build a creative career right now.
I'm looking for around 20 artists to feature in the first edition.
I want to make something that pushes back against the idea of the “broke, lazy artist.”
Because being an artist isn't sitting around waiting for inspiration to strike. It's applying for grants. Working a day job and going to the studio at night. Paying for materials. Sharing studios. Teaching. Freelancing. Exhibiting. Selling work. Making connections. Organising shows. Building communities. Making things happen when there isn't much money around.
Twenty-something is about all of that.
I want to hear about your work, your working life and the reality behind your practice.
I don't care whether you're making ceramics in a garage, performing on stage, painting in a shared studio, making music in your bedroom, designing clothes, photographing weddings to fund your personal work, working hospitality three nights a week or somehow doing all of the above.
You don't have to be a full-time artist to apply. In fact, the different ways artists make their careers work are exactly what I want to document.
I want to know how you do it.
After the costs of printing and producing the publication have been covered, profits will be donated to Palestinian aid.
Please be descriptive and honest in your answers. I want stories, anecdotes, bad spelling, excitement, failures, successes and all the weird bits in between.
Please don't use AI to write your answers. I will edit things for the publication, but I want to read your words and hear your voice.
Your application has been sent. I'll be reading everything and will be in touch if you're selected for Twenty-something.