Creative Leicestershire Funding Update
Creative Leicestershire is pleased to announce that our Grants for the Arts application to Arts Council England was successful. Our Arts Resilience programme will take place over two years and include a mentoring scheme, social outcomes training, an economic impact research project and a project to encourage domestic art buying. Keep reading future editions of the ebulletin to find out more about these projects

Abbey Park Studios
Brand new residential rehearsal space, frog island,  Leicester city centre. Various sized rooms from 3m x 4m - 9m x 8m, 24 hour access. Safe secure, coded lock and keys to each individual room. free parking outside. Customers include: KYTE, MAYBESHEWILL, CHARLIE & THE MARTYRS, SISTERLAND, THE PENNYHANGERS, ACID PONY, THE FALLING LEAVES, MANHATTAN PROJECT. For more information email: abbeyparkstudios@live.co.uk

Cheap storage/office space available in Leicester City Centre
Metro-Boulot-Dodo have secure storage spaces available in Leicester city centre, 5 minutes walk from the Cultural Quarter and LCB Depot.  Long and short-term lets are available, starting from as little as £1.50 per square foot.  The building is fully-alarmed, with a large shutter door for easy loading, and is manned by MBD staff and tenants during most office hours.  The facility would suit artists or creative businesses.  To make an appointment to view the space available or discuss options, please email info@metro-boulot-dodo.com. There is also a low-cost office space available at a negotiable rate.

Studio Share Available at Atkins Building, Hinckley
A photographer at the Atkins Building is looking to share their 428 sq feet, high ceiling, stripped floor with 3 large windows studio space. Ideally they would like to share with someone working in a separate field to photography. Rent and utility bills are just over £500 per month and depending upon what the other person wants to use the space for costs are negotiable. If you're interested contact Lesley Bee by email lesley.bee@btconnect.com or call 07766 517845

Harborough Innovation Centre
Harborough Innovation Centre provides 52 offices, eight studios and meeting rooms, together with catering facilities and a business centre. The Innovation Centre is prominently located at the entrance to the Airfield Business Park, on Harborough Road, Market Harborough, with easy access from the A14, M1 and M6 and is served by a regular bus route. Office premises are available in a range of unit sizes from 170 – 990 sq ft on flexible licence agreements so that tenants are free of any long-term letting commitments. The centre also offers a virtual office service for entrepreneurs that require a professional address and telephone answering service. For more information: www.harborough-ic.co.uk

The jobs page at www.creativeleicestershire.org.uk is updated regularly & includes job ads with short deadlines that don’t make it into the ebulletin

New opportunity for Textile Printmaker in Residence at Leicester Print Workshop
Leicester Print Workshop is looking for a practising textile artist to use the studio on a regular basis as the in-house resident expert for a 6 to 12 month period to begin in the summer of 2012. Whilst unpaid the post holder will have free use of the studio during open access hours and a modest materials budget. It is expected that they also join the LPW team of specialist tutors and will therefore have the opportunity to gain paid employment as a sessional tutor, during and after the residency. LPW is a fine art printmaking studio and is equipped for a range of techniques including relief, screen printing, intaglio and lithography. We do not have the space for large scale printmaking or printing of long runs of fabric but we do have a wealth of equipment, including a small heat press, for short print runs and one off pieces. We see this opportunity as a time for the resident artist to experiment and to produce new work in a friendly, supportive, community environment but also as an opportunity to support LPW as it improves its provision for textile artists. For more information email info@leicesterprintworkshop.com

Public Realm Artist Sort
Expressions of interest are invited to create a new public realm sculpture to be sited outside the new headquarters of the Institute of Mental Health, on the Jubilee Campus of the University of Nottingham.  The successful candidate will lead an engagement programme with local mental health groups to develop the design, which is likely to be installed by autumn 2012.  A Fee of up to £23,000 is available, to include all design consultation, materials and installation. To receive the full brief or further details, please email: victoria.tischler@nottingham.ac.uk or timharris1@ntlworld.com. Expressions of Interest are requested by 5pm on Fri 2nd March, 2012 (by email), to include your relevant experience of similar commissions, an outline budget, artist statement and your CV.

Extraordinary choreographer needed for Big Dance Flagship Commission
Dance4 on behalf of Big Dance Hub Partnership East Midlands seeks a choreographer who can create an extraordinary flagship dance programme for Big Dance 2012. You will create a new legendary experience to contribute to BIG DANCE 2012 and the Cultural Olympiad. This is UK’s greatest sporting year staying in the hearts and minds for generations. It will be bespoke to the region, ambitious, exciting audiences with unexpected dance experiences. The Flagship commission will take place at National Water Sports Centre on 8th July 2012 as part of the National Big Dance week (7th-14th July). Led by Dance4 this commission will be the region's signature Big Dance project for 2012 and act as the focal point for media coverage and our regional dance celebrations. The choreographer will also lead the dance element of a major performance to co inside with Olympic Torch arrival in Nottingham City Centre again led by Dance4 with our partners Lakeside Arts Centre and the University of Nottingham. We are looking for exciting, realistic proposals that can be made with a development and production budget of approximately £40K inclusive of productions costs, professional dancers and choreographer fees as well as costs for local artists to deliver the community engagement strand. For more information on how to apply please go to http://www.dance4.co.uk/about/project/big-dance-2012/artists/opportunity/extraordinary-choreographer-needed-big-dance-flagship-commission. Deadline 5pm, 2 March

General Manager, De Montfort Hall
Salary: up to £59,100 per annum (includes temporary market supplements until 30th June 2014, after which date they will be reviewed). Location: De Montfort Hall, Leicester. De Montfort Hall is Leicester’s leading entertainment venue, consisting of a 2000 capacity multi-purpose concert hall and proudly hosting top names from the world of music, comedy and more throughout the year, as well as the best in national touring theatre productions. Last year the Hall hosted over 150 touring shows and is also home to the award-winning Summer Sundae Weekender festival. The Hall is now recruiting for a General Manager to provide day-to-day management and lead the team at the venue. This is a very varied role which would suit a dynamic and enthusiastic manager who is keen to take a hands-on approach to the running of the venue. For an informal discussion please contact Mags Mernagh via the following email address: dmh-office@leicester.gov.uk. To apply and for full details go to http://www.leicester.gov.uk/your-council-services/jobs-and-careers/recruitment/ourcurrentvacancies/. Deadline 13 February

Associate Artist (Disabled) - Dance4
As part of our professional development strand (supported by Arts Council England through Fundays in Nottinghamshire Dance4 is offering 1 disabled dance artist the opportunity to be a Associate Artist for a period of 18 months. The programme is being offered to an exceptional disabled artist, who can show their commitment to the region; whether that means you live, work or have an interest in creating work in/for the region. As a Dance4 Associate Artist you would work with us to plan a programme that reflects your personal needs and support you at the appropriate stage in your career. The programme is open to both East Midlands and UK based disabled artists and practitioners within contemporary dance practice. We are looking for an exceptional artist/practitioner (who identifies as disabled) who is keen to question the area of dance and disability. We welcome you to apply at any stage of your career. Note: The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) defines a disabled person as someone who has a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on his or her ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. There are funds attached to this associateship, up to £4000 (including a contribution towards the creation of new work), for an agreed programme of work. For full details visit www.dance4.co.uk and look at the Apply Now section or email fundays@dance4.co.uk for more information. Deadline 13 February

Designer - Soar Media
Soar Media is looking to recruit a professional, creative and proactive designer to enhance the meteoric growth of our sports agency and associated projects. The successful applicant must have the passion and dedication to create engaging designs for both print and web. You will ideally have a track record of designing for the sports industry and experience of client facing and project coordination. If you are creative, brand driven, have a passion for sport and enjoy producing work at a fast pace and to mass exposure please email your portfolio and CV to hello@soarmedia.co.uk

The Mighty Creatives Job Vacancies
These positions offers an attractive holiday entitlement and a contributory stakeholder pension scheme. These positions will be based primarily in Leicester but will require travel across the region. We are an equal opportunities employer.Interested candidates should contact The Mighty Creatives at: info@themightycreatives.com or call 0116 2616 834. Alternatively you can find the Job Descriptions and Specifications as well as the Application Forms by clicking the following link: www.themightycreatives.com/whats-new/jobs. Closing date for all jobs: 12pm Monday 20th February 2012

• Development Director As Development Director you will be responsible for planning, directing & controlling the funding, enterprise & partner development strategies across the charity. This includes setting and achieving targets for income generation, providing a research and development service for the organisation, and managing a suite of entrepreneurial business units. The Development Director will play a lead role in ensuring children and young people have a high level of involvement and influence in our work, implementing our Safeguarding and Participation Strategies across all areas of activity for which you have responsibility.
• Participation and Accreditation Manager The Participation and Accreditation Manager role breaks down into three key areas: helping The Mighty Creatives become a world leader in the way we work with children and young people; helping partner organisations fully engage with children, young people and their families; helping children and young people take the lead through accredited volunteer and work-based learning and creative community action. You will support and motivate the Participation & Accreditation Coordinator, helping them deliver excellent work. You will also work as part of the larger Team TMC, contributing towards the pursuit of our mission and the demonstration of our values.
• Learning Coordinator As Learning Coordinator you will be responsible for supporting the Lead Developer - Learning and Creative School Consultants in the coordination, marketing and delivery of creative educational services. To do this you will develop relationships with schools and other educational settings, individual funders, delivery partners and beneficiaries to ensure the service meets its targets and delivers outstanding results. You will ensure children and young people have a high level of involvement and influence in our work, helping to implement our Safeguarding and Participation Strategies across all areas of activity for which you have responsibility. You will also work as part of a team contributing to the pursuit of our mission and demonstration of our values.

Call out For Films: COFILMIC ‘Best of the Festival’ on Tour!
Saturday 18 February, Phoenix Square Leicester. The UK’s first Comedy Short Film Festival and Talent Development programme had its inaugural event at The Comedy Store, Manchester on 30th Oct and 1st Nov 2011.  The top ten winners, runners up and audience voted films start their tour around the country in Leicester, as part of the Dave’s Leicester Comedy Festival. COFILMIC  would like to welcome anyone with an intrest in writing, performing or making comedy TV or film to come along, meet some of the film makers behind the winning films, sketches and sitcom pilots and make connections with the organisers. Details of the event and ticket information can be found here: http://www.phoenix.org.uk/index.php?cms_id=524 or
http://www.cofilmic.co.uk/

Film Making BootCamp
Saturday 10 & Sunday 11 March, 10am-4pm. Phoenix Square, Leicester. A two day, hands on, film making course for adults (19+). Film Making Boot Camp is an engaging 2 day film making workshop at Phoenix Square Digital Media Centre, with award winning film maker Steve Friendship. The Course is for beginners or anyone who would like to improve their film making skills. We will cover aspects of camera use, editing and will make a short film in groups. You will have the opportunity to use the local area as a backdrop for your film. Large Scale will provide cameras and edit systems, however if you would like to learn with your own camera, please bring it along, though make sure your batteries are charged and you have an AV lead. The course is in partnership with Leicester Adult Skills And Learning Service (Adult Education) and Phoenix Square. For further details, photos, video reel go to: www.largescalefilm.co.uk

The Development Fund
The fund is open to individual writers, writer/directors and/or producers based in the English regions for the development of all types of feature films, including animation and documentary. Applications are also invited from writer/director/producer teams. Funding is available for the costs of developing a screenplay (or the equivalent for documentaries) such as research costs, writer’s fees, script editor/developer support and script readings. For more information and how to apply go to http://www.creativeengland.co.uk/film-support/talent-development

Funding to Support Independent Media Production Companies
Independent European production companies that are seeking funding for the development of audiovisual projects are being invited to submit applications to the Media 2007 “I2I Audiovisual” programme. Under this programme assistance is available to independent European production companies to access finance from banks and other financial institutions by providing funding to cover costs of insurance, completion guarantees or credit financing. The audiovisual work submitted must be a drama, animation, or creative documentary and the maximum duration of the projects is 30 months.  The total budget available under this call is €3 million and the financial contribution may not exceed 50 % of the eligible costs. The amount of the support available is between €5 000 and €50 000. The next deadline for applications is 6th June 2012. For more information visit: http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:C:2011:321:0008:0010:EN:PDF

Seven Five Productions the Leicester Filmmakers Network
Seven / Five Productions was founded in February 2009 to assist filmmakers in Leicestershire. It acts as a catalyst for independent filmmakers to get their films made, develop their skills, network with other filmmakers and create a stable and vibrant filmmaking community in Leicestershire. The group consists of filmmakers, writers, producers, editors, actors and animators who unite to get films made. We provide workshops on a wide selection of disciplines in filmmaking and we also have regular film projects and screenings. If you would like more information on how to join and meet up or would like to get on the mail list, email keithallott@hotmail.com

The State of Play - Next Steps for the UK Video Games Industry
As the domestic video games industry faces extensive international competition from East Asia, North America and Europe and with the upcoming Communications Green Paper intended to set out the next steps for the creative industries, this seminar will offer a timely opportunity to discuss options for boosting the UK’s competitiveness and ensuring it remains a global player in games development. Featuring keynote presentations from Ian Kelso, Canadian Interactive Alliance, David Sweeney, Interactive Games Association of Ireland (IGAI) and Andy Payne, UKIE, this seminar will offer a chance to explore the approaches taken internationally to drive growth in the interactive entertainment sector, avenues for future collaboration and options for direct and indirect support by Government. For more information and to book http://www.westminsterforumprojects.co.uk/forums/event.php?eid=260. £190+VAT, conc £80+VAT

YouTube Digital Innovation Award
First Light works with young people from all over the UK to develop filmmaking skills has teamed up with YouTube to give young people aged 18-25 the opportunity to win £1,000 towards future filmmaking projects.  First Light are asking for submissions of short films, 3 minutes or under, that could be described as ‘digitally innovative’. Films submitted will be judged by YouTube and the 3 shortlisted filmmakers will be invited to attend the First Light Awards where the winner will be announced. The closing date for receiving both copies of the film and completed application form is by 1pm on Friday 24th February 2012. For more information, please visit: http://www.firstlightonline.co.uk/news/youtube-digital-innovation-award/

Furnace and Glass Technology Course
Mon 20 - Weds 22 February, Richard Golding at Station Glass, Shenton Station, CV13 6DJ. At the end of the course you will have the practical knowledge and confidence to design and run an efficient glass studio, know which glass is best for you to use and understand a bit more about running a successful glass studio. To find out more go to http://www.stationglass.com/

Supporting a Visual Arts Community - EMVAN On Tour
Tuesday 21 Feburary, 5pm-8pm. New Art Exchange, 39-41 Gregory Boulevard, Nottingham, NG7 6BE. As part of its Strategies for Survival programme, EMVAN next regional roadshow will take place in Nottingham and will present an opportunity for new and prospective members to engage in critical discussion, to exchange ideas and contacts, to meet and make friends and acquaintances, and to find out more about EMVAN, its future plans and its programme of activity. For more information go to http://www.emvan.net/content/emvan-tour. £3/ free to students

Exhibition opportunities in the Creative Hinckley Gallery in the Atkins Building
Creative Hinckley is now accepting proposals for solo or group exhibitions to take place in 2013. The Creative Hinckley Gallery is an outstanding space with excellent light and a flexible modular exhibition panel scheme. The Gallery can be viewed on the website at www.creativehinckley.co.uk. An exhibition committee meets three times a year to consider proposals. Please contact Bev Chandler on bevchandler@live.co.uk for more information.

Call out for the Rutland Open 2012
The Rutland Open exhibition 2012 will take place from 23 March to 21 April at the Rutland County Museum, Catmose Street, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6HW, organised by Arts for Rutland. We are looking for quality paintings, prints, drawings, photographs, sculpture or craft work created by artists based in Rutland, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Leicestershire & Cambridgeshire. Artists can submit up to 3 artworks, in person only, on Saturday 17 or Monday 19 March, 10am to 4pm at Rutland County Museum. Work for the exhibition will be selected by an independent panel and significant prizes awarded. Submission costs are £5 to submit one work, £10 for two or £15 for 3. Work selected will be for sale. It is essential that those submitting work download and read the application form & full information available at www.artsforrutland.co.uk/rutland-open-exhibition-2012.html. The Rutland Open is supported by Goldmark Gallery, Swans of Oakham, Arts for Rutland, Rutland County Council and Creative Leicestershire.

Textile Workshops
Are you creative, interested in textiles and designing and making? Do you like working with young people? Ever thought about being a textiles teacher but not sure what is involved or feel you would need to top up your skills before applying for a teacher training course? Find out more about this and a range of other creative training workshops by contacting julie@julieboyd.co.uk or visit www.denimduck.co.uk/Denimduck/Workshops

New contemporary craft, art and design gallery at Wistow, Leicestershire – sell your work!
Wistow Gallery is a new independent gallery opening in a new unit in late March 2012 at Wistow Rural Centre, south Leicestershire. We will be selling work sourced uniquely from Leicestershire-based creatives, so I’d love to hear from you if you are based in the county and would like to discuss selling your work in the gallery. I’m particularly seeking contemporary ceramics, glass, jewellery, textiles, prints and paintings, wood, willow, cards, wrap and other paper products, and small furniture/accessories, but very happy to consider anything and everything as long as it is high quality, lovely and produced or designed in Leicestershire and Rutland! Please do bear in mind that space is limited so larger works may be difficult to display. Please do get in touch with me, Kate Foster, the gallery owner, by email in the first instance with examples of your work and prices: wistowgallery@gmail.com

Call for entries - The John Ruskin Prize 2012
The Campaign for Drawing, in collaboration with The Guild of St George, announces a new art award: The John Ruskin Prize. The award is open to anyone over 18 working in painting, drawing, printmaking or mixed media and resident or domiciled in the UK. Please visit The Big Draw Shop for full guidelines and to purchase an entry form: www.campaignfordrawing.org/shop

Call for entries: British Glass Biennale 2012
The call for entries for the British Glass Biennale 2012 is now open and submissions will be accepted until Monday 20th February 2012 at 5pm. The British Glass Biennale, in association with the Worshipful Company of Glass Sellers is open to UK based artists, designers and craft practitioners, working in all areas of contemporary glass practice or using glass as a key design element. The UK's premiere selling exhibition of contemporary glass currently has five prizes, totalling over £9000, to be awarded alongside its growing international status as the leading showcase for British based makers. For more information visit: www.biennale.org.uk

Call for entries: One Year On 2012 - The Contemporary Craft Festival
The Contemporary Craft Festival invites you to apply for One Year On 2012. One Year On is a brand new development dedicated to emerging makers in the first year of practise. One year On will showcase approximately 20 makers in their own dedicated marquee. The aim of One Year On is to support  fledgling careers and to encourage and promote the wealth of creative talent. It is free to apply. One Year On will be selected for quality by industry professionals and will create an outstanding opportunity for businesses of one year or less (Business must have started since January 2011). For an application form and more information www.craftsatboveytracey.co.uk

Call our for artists: Sutton Bonington Festival
Sutton Bonington, a village on the Leicestershire/Nottinghamshire border, is organising an arts festival for the 12th and 13th May 2012. We are hoping to present a variety of arts and would like to promote local East Midlands artists. We are particularly interested in artists that will actively engage with the general public and foster a wider interest. If the event is of interest to you or you would like to know more please contact Doug Wilson on 01509 670160 or douglas.wilson@ntu.ac.uk

Calling All Craft-Makers, Artisans, Practitioners - Easter Crafts Fair in Aid of Cancer Research UK
Saturday 31st March, 10am-6pm. FABRIKA Independent Arts Centre, Humberstone Gate, Leicester. City Centre.  If you would like to take part, please contact Liz - libbybus@hotmail.com or call 07708 622484 for more information. COST: £25 per table OR £20 with a donation (worth £5) as a raffle prize (Net Profit from booking fees goes to Cancer Research UK). Entry to visitors is free

Call for artists - Red Tent Gallery
The Red Tent Gallery, 8 Pocklingtons Walk in Leicester will be celebrating art inspired by Celtic culture and history with an exhibition in March 2012. The exhibition will be a part of the National Irish History Week from 10th to 17th March and will run from 2nd to 31st March. We welcome work from artists who are inspired by Celtic culture throughout the centuries and we are looking for 2D and 3D work (reliefs) that can be attached to a wall. This includes paintings, prints, watercolours, textiles, photographs, installations, performances, happenings, descriptions of works and wood carving to mention only a few possibilities. Please send enquiries and  proposals in the form of jpegs or text together with an artist statement of 100 words maximum  to theredtentgallery@gmail.com before 25 February 2012. Please also note that  we are not able to exhibit 3D free standing floor sculptures.

Call for entries: Designers in Residence 2012
The Design Museum continues to support the next generation of designers and creatives with its Designers in Residence programme. The exhibition showcases the work of young designers at the beginning of their careers offering the opportunity to interact and engage with the public, whilst using this platform as a test-bed for ideas, designs and innovations. Recent alumni have included Giles Miller, Asif Khan and Bethan Laura Wood. a more creative and fully resolved outcome. They invite product, furniture, graphic, spatial or interaction designers to explore the idea of economy and resourcefulness in an object, an environment or an experience for their Designers in Residence 2012 proposal. For the full brief and application details go to http://designmuseum.org/exhibitions/2012/designers-in-residence-2012. Deadline 5pm, 20th Feburary

Call out for artists: Makers Mart
Makers Mart is a contemporary art, craft and design fair based in Leicester's cultural quarter run by LCB Depot and supported by Creative Leicestershire, Curve theatre, Design Factory and Andrew Tanner Design. The third fair will take place in the Curve theatre foyer on Saturday 21 April 2012 from 12 to 8pm. Makers Mart is looking for 20 artists and designer/makers of quality, original and unique work to have stalls at the event for a fee of £40. Makers Mart will coincide with the St Georges Day activities on Orton Square (outside Curve) and a busy day of matinees and evening shows at Curve theatre. The event will be promoted by LCB Depot, Creative Leicestershire, Curve theatre and via Leicester City Council’s promotion for the St George’s day festival. There is a selection process for Makers Mart and application forms and full info should be downloaded http://www.lcbdepot.co.uk/news/makers-mart-contemporary-craft-fair-sat-21st-april. Application deadline is Friday 24 February, 5pm.

Exhibition Space Available in New Walk Museum & Art Gallery
The Wall - Exhibition space for hire at New Walk Museum & Art Gallery The Wall’ is a large, three-part exhibition space located in the central entrance area of New Walk Museum & Art Gallery and now available to hire by artists, community & artist groups. The space gives up to 30 square metres of hanging space overall and is available to hire in blocks of 2 weeks for up to a maximum of 8 weeks. Visit our website for more details and application forms: www.leicester.gov.uk/thewall

Pedestrian Gallery : Last Minute Availability
Pedestrian Gallery have a last minute slot available in our calendar from 28th Feb - 19th March . . then we're fully booked for a few months! Exhibitions are just 1 week minimum.... and we offer a student discount. If you are interested email samantha@pedestrian.info

February courses in Writing School Leicester

• Starting to Write a Stage Play with Bev Hancock, Wednesdays 19.00-21.00 from 22nd Feb
• Writing Stories for Performance with Polly Tuckett, Mondays 10.00-12.00, from 20th Feb
• Starting to Write a Novel with Rod Duncan, Mondays 19.00-21.00 or Wednesdays 10.00-12.00 from 20th/22nd Feb
• Advanced Poetry Writing Workshop with John Gallas, Mondays 12.30-14.30 from 20th Feb

For further information and to book, go to www.writingschoolleicester.co.uk

Epublishing – Panel Discussion
Thursday 22 March, 7pm – 9pm. Satta Hashem Hall, Adult Education Centre, 2 Wellington St, Leicester LE1 6HL. A panel discussion for writers on the changing world of epublishing. The panel will include Chris Meade of if:book UK and the Future of the Book (and former director of the Poetry Society) who will give an overview of epublishing; author Mandy Jones (Amanda Grange) who has sold over a quarter of a million copies of her historical romances worldwide and publishes online; John Martin, development librarian for the Leicestershire library service; Stephen Baker of EBooks by Design a firm that  relieves writers of the technical burden of turning their digital text into ebooks. This event is free to residents of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland and members of Leicester Writers Club and £5 for others, but please book at http://epublishinglwc.eventbrite.co.uk. This event is hosted by Leicester Writers Club and Creative Leicestershire.

Alt.Fiction Festival
14th & 15th April, Phoenix Square Leicester. Early bird tickets are now on sale for the Alt.Fiction festival of sci fi, fantasy and horror, taking place on 14 & 15 April 2012 at the Phoenix in Leicester. The festival, run by Writing East Midlands, provides an opportunity for writers to hear from their favourite authors, find out more about the world of publishing and learn more about the writing process, while networking with agents, publishers and other writers. Guest of honour for the festival, now in its sixth year, will be multi-award winning science fiction author, Ken McLeod. To find out more and to get a ticket go to http://altfiction.co.uk/

Discover Festival
Discover Festival is a weekend of science-fiction, fantasy and horror writing, taking place from 18th-20th May at Snibston Discovery Museum, Coalville, Leicestershire. The event draws together leading authors in the genre for a mixture of panels, workshops, readings, Q+A and more, and tickets are fantastic value at £45 for the whole weekend! Guests of Honour for 2012 are bestselling science-fiction author Peter F Hamilton, renowned horror writer Graham Masterton and acclaimed novelist Jon Courtenay Grimwood. For more information, visit www.discoverfestival.co.uk or email discoverevent@hotmail.co.uk

Call for Writers: Writers in Schools Skill Sharing Day
The day, organized by NAWE, Writing West Midlands and Writing East Midlands on behalf of the Writers in Schools National Network, will host a wide range of workshops relevant for writers who work in schools and other formal and non-formal educational settings. To ensure that the conference is of maximum benefit to those attending we are looking for experienced writers to lead workshops. If you have a topic you would like to lead a session on, please do get in touch as soon as possible with your proposal. If you present a workshop on the day you will be able to attend free of charge (although you will have to pay for your own travel). For all other writers taking part in the day the cost will be very modest. Please register your interest in presenting (along with your proposal) via email to Catherine@writingeastmidlands.co.uk by Friday 2 March 2012

Funding To Support Poetry and Literature
The Clore Duffield Foundation has announced that the second funding round under its new £1 million programme to fund poetry and literature initiatives for children and young people across the UK is now open for applications. Through the programme, schools, FE colleges, community groups, libraries and other arts/cultural organisations can apply for grants of  between £1,000 and £10,000 to support participatory learning projects and programmes focused on literature, poetry and creative writing for under 19s. The programme is due to run until 2015 with two funding rounds a year. The next deadline for applications is the 17th April 2012. For more information, please visit: http://www.cloreduffield.org.uk/page_sub.php?id=331&parent=35

Funny Old World: Tea and Biscuits Seminar
Saturday 18th February, 11am – 1pm at Embrace Arts, Lancaster Rd, Leicester LE1 7HA. For the past few years Big Difference Company (who run Leicester Comedy Festival) have been working with partners on various projects which explore how older people connect with comedy.  This year we have made the exciting addition of the Silver Comedy Competition, awarding a prize to the best stand up aged over 55.  This seminar will explore what we’ve learnt so far, what partners think and how we might continue this work in the future.  Come along to find out more. Free event: to book your place call 0116 252 2455.

Music and Children in Challenging Circumstances Conference
Thursday 23 February 2012, 9.30am-4pm. Derby QUAD, Derby, DE1 3AS. Working with Soft Touch Community Arts, MusicLeader East Midlands will deliver a day long conference, networking event for music teachers, workshop leaders, participatory workers, music and participatory arts organisations, local authority personnel (youth service, PRU's, schools, academies, music projects, charities, voluntary sector youth organisations). The event includes key note speakers, best practice, critical information, careers/coaching sessions as well as practical skills-sharing demonstrations and sharings. For more information and to book email erin.meehan@musicleader.net

Music in Healthcare Settings
This 4 day training course will explore the place of music and musicians in health settings and equip music leaders with the skills and knowledge to work effectively in health care settings. During the course of the training, you will spend 2 half days working alongside OPUS musicians in their residency hospitals in Sheffield and Derby. To give you the broadest picture one placement will be on children's wards and the other will be on adult wards. The programme will take place in Derby on 23rd and 24th February and in Sheffield on 8th and 9th March 2012. For more information go to http://www.musicleader.net/trainingcourses_details.asp?TPID=4670.ome an Arts Award Advisor!Become an Arts Award Advisor!Beyond BorderBeyond Borders 

MusicLeader East Midlands Regional Early Years Music Events
Thursday 1 March, 4pm-7pm. Embrace Arts, Leicester. Event to include opportunity for discussion, networking and workshop with Mat Andasun looking at the use of music technology with storytelling and music improvisation. Book your place here http://mlemearlyyearsleic.eventbrite.com/. Email erin.meehan@musicleader.net to find out about the other East Midlands events. 

Games Time: the opportunity to do something amazing in 2012
Do you want to be in the cast of a professionally produced outdoor show, which gives you the chance to meet other people with a passion for the performing arts?  Are you excited by large scale performance and want to develop your skills and understanding in this area?  Would you like to work with performing arts professionals and organisations that are internationally recognised - such as Lea Anderson, Mahogany and Walk the Plank?  Games Time is a once in a lifetime opportunity to take part in an incredible performance as part of the Cultural Olympiad.  We’re inviting participants for the Loughborough performance from Leicester and Leicestershire. For rehearsal and performance dates, visit: http://www.gamestime.org.uk/get-involved.aspx. To sign up using the expression of interest form visit: http://www.gamestime.org.uk/home.aspx. Please return your form to c.limb@deda.uk.com by 10 Feb.

Regional Youth Theatre Festival 2012
Saturday 31 March - Sun 1 April, The Castle, Wellingborough. Calling all youth theatres in the East Midlands region! RYTF (East Midlands) is a fun-packed weekend that celebrates youth theatre, with opportunities to participate in a high quality workshop programme and showcase performance work. Participation is open to any East Midlands based group registered with NAYT. The cost is £15 per youth theatre member to participate. This £15 entitles members to a festival pass into as many workshops, discussions and youth theatre performances possible to fit in over the weekend. The festival is suitable for youth theatre group members aged 11 - 18 yrs. To find out how your group can take part and to request a booking form email: esther@thecastle.org.uk

Let’s Dance International Festival
Let’s Dance International Festival runs from 12 - 27 May and brings a number of new companies to Leicester presenting the best in dance from around the world with artists from the Caribbean, South Africa, Namibia, India, Spain and the UK. There will be a number of performances, seminars, showcases and masterclasses as part of the event. For more information about the festival visit www.ldif.co.uk

Let's Dance Masterclass - Daksha Sheth Company
Sunday 7 May, 11am. Phoenix Square, Leicester. The Daksha Sheth Dance Company has a strong physical and vibrant dance language that has placed it at the cutting edge of Indian dance as it continues to integrate contemporary and traditional dance forms. This workshop will explore dance vocabulary from Kathak, Chhau, Kalaripayattu and Mallakhamb that formed the basis of Shiva Shakti. Call 08444 771 000 to book. £10/£8

Youth Music Open Programme
Youth Music, the UK's largest children's music charity has announced its grant making programme is once again open for applications. Through its "Open Programme", grants of between £5,000 and £30,000 are available to support projects that provide music-making activities for children and young people in support of Youth Music's goals. Youth Music will fund any non profit-making organisation more than one year old that is committed to music-making activities for children and young people up to 18 (or up to 25 if they have special educational needs, disabilities or are in detention). Youth Music aims to support music making activities principally in out of school hours such as during weekends, holidays as well as in breakfast and after schools clubs. There is a two stage application process and the next closing date for stage 1 applications is 5pm, 11 April. For more information visit: http://network.youthmusic.org.uk/funding

Curveball – performance platform
Curveball is a regular late night platform for local performers to come to Curve theatre in Leicester and animate the Foyer pre or post show (approx. 6pm pre-show or 10pm for post-show).  Curveballs are scheduled for Friday nights and as of February will have a dedicated space in the Foyer.  We’re looking to programme community groups who need a platform and who fit with our monthly theme.  The theme is usually related to the work in the main house and studio spaces, e.g. February is about stand-up comedy linking to the Comedy Festival; March will be burlesque in order to tie in with Gypsy.  We’re looking for events which have a built-in audience as there is very little marketing around Curveball.  There are drinks offers on the bar and our aim would be to bring as many new people into Curve as possible by making a performance space more accessible to people who aren’t trying to put on a full production but would make use of a stage and an audience. If you are interested in performing, come along to an event and see how it works from Friday 10 or Friday 17 February (all post show). To apply to perform please send a brief summary (or a link) of who you are and what you do to Communications@curvetheatre.co.uk

Inspiring Business by Sharing Success
Tuesday 14 February, 9.30am-4pm. Donington Park Race Circuit, Paddock Suite. Love Business East Midlands is a strategic alliance of 'like minded' businesses and organisations. Working together, our aim is to inspire the business community and highlight the many successes within the East Midlands region. Sharing their success stories, secrets and challenges is only a part of it though. It will be the forum for those who are passionate about business and are based in the region. For more information and to book go to http://www.lovebusinesseastmidlands.com/the-launch-event

MRC Enterprise Club
Thursday afternoons during February & March, 3pm - 7pm. The Marlene Reid Centre, 85 Belvoir Road, Coalville, LE67 3PH. Enterprise Clubs are clubs set up and run by local businesses and partnerships for: People who are out of work and others who are considering starting their own business or becoming self-employed, also suitable for people who are considering starting a social enterprise or community (non profit) business.
Club members meet to enable members to share each other’s career experiences, skills and to encourage each other to work through their business ideas. They are an informal – drop in (although we would appreciate if you register so we know how many to expect and what kind of advice & support you may need ring Bev on 01530 510515 or email enterprise@mrc.uk.net.)

TBC Winter Social
Thursday 23 February, 6pm-8pm. LCB Depot, 31 Rutland Street, Leicester, LE1 1RE. Every quarter To Be Creative (TBC) offers you an eclectic two-hour mix of speakers, creative insights and mutual chin waggin with Leicester’s creative industries. Our networking socials have become very popular and we expect this upcoming event to be no different (book now to avoid disappointment). Speakers are to be confirmed. Book here http://tbcwintersocial2012.eventbrite.com/. This event is supported by Creative Leicestershire

New year, New skills – Design Courses for your Business
As part of our continuing development of training for businesses, NTU are pleased to announce a wide range of new courses for 2012. Ideal for you or your staff, they are delivered by experts from our full-time design courses, held on our city centre campus that offers excellent studios and equipment.

• Graphic Design - Intermediate - 11 April – 13 June 2012, Wednesdays, 6 pm – 8.30 pm, 10 weeks, £265. This is suitable for those wishing to expand their creative skills with a focus on ideas, creative thinking and visual problem solving, promoting creativity at a professional, commercial level.
• Dreamweaver CS5 - Introduction - 18 – 25 February 2012, Saturdays, 10 am – 4 pm, two weeks, £385. This intensive course covers using Dreamweaver to build, edit and publish accessible, standards-compliant websites.
• Dreamweaver CS5 - Advanced - Saturday 3 March 2012, 10 am – 4 pm, one day, £195. This intensive course covers practical web design techniques including an overview of CSS specifications, advanced CSS, CSS menus, browser implications (and how to deal with them) and JavaScript Frameworks.

Creative Enterprise Hub Business Support Workshops

• Growing Your Business Through Employees and Freelancers - Tuesday 21st February, 9:30-4:30pm at the LCB Depot
• Becoming an Employer – Getting Everything Legally Straight - Tuesday 28th February, 9:30-4:30pm at the LCB Depot
• Keeping Your Winning Team – How To Be A Good Employer In The Creative Industries - Tuesday 6th March, 9:30-4:30pm at the LCB Depot
• Managing Creative Projects - Thurs 8th March, 9.30am – 4.30pm at LCB Depot
• Managing Partners in Projects - Thurs 15th March, 9.30am – 4.30pm at LCB Depot
• Contracts and Legal Agreements - Thurs 22nd March, 9.30am – 12.30pm at LCB Depot

Book soon - Only 12 places available on each workshop

 

Workshops are FREE of charge but eligibility criteria applies. Attendees will need to complete registration and eligibility forms before the booking is secure. For info contact Cheryl Gill on 0116 242 2955 or email cheryl.gill@lcbdepot.co.uk

Free Creative Business Start Up Workshops
This free 2 day workshop is suitable for anyone in Leicester/shire or Rutland planning to setting up a business in the arts, design or media sectors. Delivered by Clare Hudson and Fred Brookes of Creative Leicestershire the workshops will give an overview of things to plan before you launch the business, including marketing plans, finances, company structures and intellectual property. Each workshop will be informal and hands-on using lots of techniques to stimulate your thinking about what you plan to do. The workshops take place on Weds 7 March, 9am-5pm at Kibworth Grammar School Hall, School Road, Kibworth, LE8 0EW and Tues 27 March, 10.30am-4.30pm at Kibworth & Smeeton Village Hall, Station Street, Kibworth, LE8 0LN . Attendance at both full-day workshops is required to cover all essential topics. The workshops are fully funded through the Creative Leicestershire programme, but booking is essential at http://creativestartups.eventbrite.co.uk. For informal enquiries or a chat about whether this is right for you contact Clare on clare.hudson@leics.gov.uk t: 0116 305 4117. This is a Creative Leicestershire event

Clore Leadership Fellowship Programme
The Clore Leadership Programme is currently inviting applications from exceptional individuals with the potential to take on significant leadership roles within culture. Sponsored by Arts Council England, these general fellowships are open to candidates with at least 5 years' paid work experience either in employment, self-employed or freelance, usually in the cultural sector. The Fellowship Programme aims to shape emerging creative leaders through in-depth learning, tailored as far as possible to the needs, aspirations and circumstances of about 25 to 30 individuals a year. Fellows also benefit from unparalleled access to senior cultural leaders and to extensive networks. Fellows can choose to take a period of six/seven months away from work and receive a bursary while doing their programme, or in some cases continue to be attached to their place of work, with their employer being compensated for the sustained periods when they're away. The closing date for all applications is by 12 noon, 24 February 2012. For further details on the Programme and to access the online application form visit: www.cloreleadership.org/

The Changing World of Schools and Children’s Centres
Tuesday 21 February, 4.15pm-6pm. School Development Support Agency (SDSA), Alliance House, Bishop Street, Leicester LE1 6AF. The big changes in schools and early years’ structures and funding are outlined at this event by the SDSA’s Strategic Primary Head and the Director of the Secondary Education Improvement Partnership plus a member of the City Council’s Early Years team.  Topics covered will include changes in funding for schools; types of school (including teaching schools, free schools, faith schools, academies and federations); raising aspirations in pupils; changes in Early Years provision and the role creative practitioners can play in this new world. Short presentations will be followed by a Question and Answer session. The event is free if you are based in Leicestershire/Rutland, £5 if based elsewhere. Please book at: http://changingschools-esearch.eventbrite.co.uk/. This is a Creative Leicestershire event

Delivering Childrens Services Through The Arts
Friday 24 February, 10am-4pm. Rufford Craft Centre, Ollerton NG22 9DF. “Every child and young person should experience the richness of the arts” is defined as a key goal in the Arts Council England’s new 10-year Strategy. This regional briefing day will offer information and case studies about how this goal is being met. Come along to find out more about current developments and opportunities in the East Midlands for supporting creative work with Children’s Services. Please click here for further information and to book: http://www.themightycreatives.com/news/childrens-services-arts/

Cultural Exchanges
Cultural Exchanges is a diverse week of interactive discussions, performances and talks at DMU; showcasing an eclectic programme of guests. The Festival and its programme represent the culture and creativity of De Montfort University, the city of Leicester and contemporary society in order to bring together cultures and industries. It is hosted by the Faculty of Art, Design and Humanities, and is run by students on the Arts and Festivals Management BA (Hons) degree students. This year's highlights include; Matther Bourne, Dame Janet Suzman, Jamal Edwards, Hugh McIlvanney, Heather Pearce. For more information go to www.dmu.ac.uk/cultural-exchanges-festival/index.aspx

National Challenge: Exporting for Growth
Thursday 1 March, 9.15am-2pm. The Henry Ford College, Loughborough University, Loughborough LE11 3TU. On 10 November 2011 the Prime Minister and Lord Green launched a major initiative to boost the number of SMEs that export - setting the target of getting up to 100,000 SMEs to either start exporting for the first time or spread to new markets over the next four or five years. UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) is already working with SMEs to help them succeed through exports. But a whole range of other networks also have a role to play in this national challenge - lawyers, accountants, banks, business and trade organisations, chambers of commerce and LEPs are just some of the organisations that have an important role in influencing and supporting SMEs on their path to exporting. This event will be an opportunity for SMEs and intermediaries to learn more about this national challenge and explore how you can play a part in tackling it. For more information go to http://www.regionalexportforgrowth.com/

Oadby Creative Business Surgery Day
Tuesday 6 March, 1pm-4pm. 10 The Parade
Leicester, LE2 5BF. Book an advice session with Fred Brookes our business adviser. These are informal sessions open to those based in Leicestershire or Rutland, tailored to you as an artist or creative business.  Book here http://oadbysurgery.eventbrite.co.uk/. This is a Creative Leicestershire event

Intellectual Property Awareness & First Time Director Seminar
Wednesday 15 March, 8.30am-1.30pm. Derby County Football Club. Pride Park, DE24 8XL. The first half of this joint event will provide a great opportunity to hear presentations from IP experts from the Intellectual Property Office. This event will also enable you to understand your responsibilities as a company officer and provide details of the filing requirements under the Companies Act 2006. Companies House will explain the ways in which you can deal with them electronically by filing your information with us online and searching our extensive database to find out more information about your customers, competitors and investors. For more information and to book go to http://www.ipo.gov.uk/whyuse/events/events-calendar/events-cip-derby.htm

Embrace Create Connect: Arts & Learning Disability Conference
Thursday 15 & Friday 16 March, Embrace Arts, Leicester. Embrace Create Connect is a national conference which will bring together venues, companies and individual artists that have or work with learning disability. The conference is aimed at: venue managers who programme or wish to programme work and venue staff who welcome artists and audience into their buildings. For more information and to book go to http://www.embracecreateconnect.co.uk/

Because We’re Worth It:  National Summit on Participatory Arts
Thursday 22 March, 9.30am-4pm. The Institute of Contemporary Arts, The Mall, London, SW1Y 5AH. Because we’re worth it! is an important national Summit exploring and celebrating the value of participatory arts. Participatory arts have the power to change people’s lives for the better; provide connections, experiences and rich stories. The UK’s participatory arts scene is constantly changing, innovating, developing, celebrating, exploring and recording fantastic and ground breaking work. To book and for more info go to www.eventelephant.com/becausewereworthit. £15

Choose My Support
Choose My Support is an on-line market place for care and support services and care products where Service Users of Adult Social Care in Leicester and Leicestershire can use to find and buy the services they need. If you provide a product or service such as classes or workshops to Adult Social Care Service Users, then you can register to as a provider on the market place. For more information and to register go to https://www.choosemysupport.org.uk/providerquestions.jsp

Arts Development UK
Arts Development UK is the leading professional association for people working in the arts. Whether your are an arts officer, consultant, artist, policy maker or work in an arts or cultural organisation, AD:uk offers a unique way to joining over 400 colleagues, to support your professional development and raise the profile of your work. To find out how you can benefit as a member of Arts Development UK and for more information go to http://artsdevelopmentuk.org/

Awards for All England
The Awards for All England programme aims to help improve local communities and the lives of people most in need. If you are planning a project and you need between £300 and £10,000 then Awards for All may be able to help you. No deadline. More info

Own Art
ACE is inviting applications for membership of the Own Art scheme, which aims to make it easier for museums and galleries to buy and own art by providing interest free loans to spread the cost of art purchases over ten months. Over 250 member galleries have made use of the opportunity in the UK. For more details, applications criteria and forms, head on over to the Arts Council website at: www.artscouncil.org.uk/news/arts-council-news/own-art-can-bring-business-galleries/

BBC Children in Need
BBC Children in Need provides grants for up to three years to properly constituted not for profit organisations working with disadvantaged young people aged 18 or under. Within the BBC Children in Need grants programme, organisations can apply for Small Grants of £10,000 or less per year for up to three years and for Main Grants of over £10,000 per year for up to three years. The next closing date is the 15th April 2012. For more information visit: http://www.bbc.co.uk/pudsey/grants/general_grants.shtml

Elephant Trust
The Elephant Trust offers grants of up to £2,000 to artists and institutions (priority is given to small organisations and galleries) for new, innovative visual arts projects based in the UK. The Trust was set up in 1975 to make it possible for artists and those presenting their work to undertake and complete projects when frustrated by lack of funds. It is committed to helping artists and institutions that depart from the routine and signal new, distinct and imaginative sets of possibilities. Priority is also given to artists and small organisations and galleries who should submit well argued, imaginative proposals for making or producing new work or exhibitions. The next deadline for the submission of applications is the 2nd April 2012. For more information visit: http://www.elephanttrust.org.uk/docs/intro.html

Early Years Artists & Practitioner Creativity Toolkit
This e-book for early years practitioners and artists that showcases work from projects in East & West Sussex. The toolkit includes illustrated practical guides to a wide range of creative themes that can be used every day in early years settings alongside more detailed analysis and reflection on how to get the best from collaborative working between artists and early years practitioners. You can see the book here http://playnedesign.co.uk/books/early-years/

Need support with Business Administration or IT?
You could have a young apprentice trained to meet your business needs for free by Leicestershire Adult Learning Service. The minimum wage for apprentices is £2.60 per hour and we may be able to help you find another creative industry to share an apprentice with. Interested in finding out how an apprentice can support your business and about attractive employer incentives? Contact Leicestershire Adult Learning Service (Karen Preston 07767 618962 e: Karen.preston2@leics.gov.uk for informal and no obligation advice.

Leicester Business Event 2012
11th October 2012 , 9.30 – 4.30. King Power Stadium. Exhibiting at a Business Event is an excellent way of meeting with a variety of prospects and customers in a short time. The events are relaxed and friendly and can produce many new business leads. In this highly technological age business people often overlook the most powerful method of communication - face to face contact. Book before 31st March and Save 10% on the Early Bird booking price,  for more information visit www.leicesterbusinessevents.co.uk

Real Life Entrepreneur Campaign
The FSB in Leicestershire and Rutland are organising an exciting event to launch the new
FSB Real Life Entrepreneur Campaign.  The event, being held in March promises a strong line up of speakers, meet fellow entrepreneurs, exhibition and discussion groups.  If you would like to receive an invitation to attend this event please contact Maxine Aldred, on 0116 2597 707 or maxine.aldred@fsb.org.uk

Business Support Programme
The programme has been designed specifically to provide practical support for small businesses in Northants, Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland looking to release their potential and grow. The changes to Business Link mean that business support is now only available via the Business Link web site and on the ground support for the majority of businesses is no longer available. The FSB Business Support Programme was set in place to help cover the gap caused. The programme will consist of focused, interactive workshops and a business buddy system to provide full support for businesses of all sizes, ages and sectors. For more information contact Maxine Aldred, on 0116 2597 707 or maxine.aldred@fsb.org.uk

Good Practice Guides for Organisations Working with Young People
The Big Lottery Fund has published 7 downloadable good practice guides for organisations working with young people. Among the titles are 'Actively involving young people' and 'Reducing anti-social behaviour'. The guidelines are available here http://www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/er_yp_gp.htm