Voluntary Arts Scotland

Organisation 

Voluntary Arts Scotland

Location 

Remote working.

Dates 

Flexible (All internships comprise of a maximum of three months FTE to be taken within this timescale.)

Project Description

Covid-19 and its ongoing impact on the professional arts and culture sector has been well documented and discussed in the media, creative industries, government and civic society circles.

In addition, during national lockdown there has been an unparalleled outpouring of everyday creativity, particularly evident on social media, with many individuals experiencing self-initiated creative activity for the first time.

However, the impact of the pandemic on new and established voluntary arts groups, including those involved in creative cultural activities such as crafts, dance, drama, literature, media, music, visual arts, applied arts and others, is less well understood.

‘Culture during Covid’ seeks to assess how voluntary arts groups have responded to Covid-19, the consequences of the virus and its impact on future activity.

Outputs

A range of results for ‘Culture during Covid’ have been highlighted, including;

A literature review of existing research or findings

A trends analysis examining the impact of the virus, with a particular focus on minority and less advantaged groups.

A UK wide Learning and Sharing Seminar.

Case Studies of up to six voluntary arts groups.

A Publication for wider distribution.

Benefits to the Host

‘Culture during Covid’ will develop a better understanding of the impact of the pandemic and lockdown on the voluntary arts sector.

This will raise the profile of the voluntary arts whilst supporting our own ongoing advocacy work with a variety of stakeholders, including with local, regional and national government, and during policy and funding debates.

The project will additionally support individuals and voluntary arts groups, from all parts of the UK, promoting peer learning and inclusion, lessening isolation and improving connectivity.

These outcomes are in line with our Strategic Objectives, as detailed here.

Benefits to the Researcher

The researcher will gain valuable professional experience, practical networking and presentation skills alongside published research outcomes.

Whilst learning about the diversity of voluntary arts activity across the UK, the researcher will also have the chance to refine investigative, evaluation/impact assessment and reporting skills.

The researcher will have the opportunity to help shape how outcomes are developed, presented and published and subsequently examine the impact for stakeholders.

Key Relationships

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work with the small and dedicated team at Voluntary Arts Scotland whilst being directly connected to the U.K. wide Voluntary Arts network, including in England, Wales and Ireland.

The candidate will additionally have the opportunity to interact with a broad range of voluntary arts practitioners from across the U.K., including individuals from a range of multi-arts and specialist art form groups, as detailed.

We also have good established links with a range of academic partners.

Person Specification

Skills, experience and personal qualities required for this placement:

First published: 3 August 2018