Open Call: Identity and Self-Representation

Opportunity Overview

Are you a creative practitioner or collective eager to create, inspire, and connect? We invite artists, producers, performers, musicians, and curators to propose, shape, and host public program events. These events can be held either in our Hackney gallery or via our online platforms.

This year marks Autograph’s 35th anniversary, and as part of our celebrations, we are offering three Open Call opportunities throughout the next year, each with a distinct theme. The inaugural open call centers on “identity and self-representation” in homage to Autoportraits, the groundbreaking exhibition curated by Autograph. We welcome event submissions covering various creative topics related to this theme, including but not limited to launch events, spoken word performances, in-conversations, Q&A sessions, creative workshops, and film screenings.

The successful applicant will receive a £600 budget and a £400 curatorial fee. The selected event proposal will take place in either December 2023 or January 2024.

Application Deadline: 10 am on Monday, September 25, 2023

Why Apply

Autograph introduced its annual Open Call program in 2018 to offer emerging creatives and producers paid opportunities to stage events they might not otherwise have the chance to develop. Sharing our platforms and supporting emerging practitioners aligns with Autograph’s history of commissioning and sharing knowledge while expanding our institutional learning and reach.

As part of this program, we welcome proposals that foster exchange and shared learning. We are keen to hear your ideas and introduce new perspectives and voices into our program.

In return, Autograph’s experienced staff will collaborate with you to:

• Develop the event concept.
• Produce and deliver the event.
• Provide access to Autograph’s building and resources.
• Craft engaging event copy for our website and social media.
• Successfully market your event to Autograph’s audiences and the wider public.

How to Apply

Applications can be in writing or in a medium of your choice. Written documents should not exceed two sides of A4, and supporting images should be submitted separately. Videos should not exceed 5 minutes. Previous unsuccessful applicants are encouraged to reapply.

We are committed to ensuring accessibility in the application process. If you have any inquiries about the application process, please contact us at learning@autograph-abp.co.uk.

Applications should include the following details:

• Information about you and your work, including relevant links and supporting images.
• Your proposed idea, including the event’s format and potential contributors, speakers, or performers.
• A breakdown of the £600 budget (please note that Autograph pays speakers a half-day rate of £150, and your proposed event should fit within this budget).
• Any additional information you believe is pertinent to your application, including details provided in the form of an access rider, if applicable.

Please submit your application via email or WeTransfer to learning@autograph-abp.co.uk with ‘Open Call’ and your full name in the subject line.

Application Deadline: 10 am on Monday, September 25, 2023 Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an informal conversation to discuss their proposal.