Catalyser

Catalyser is a creative learning programme for people aged 18-25 years which takes place at Clod Ensemble Studios in North Greenwich. The programme commences with a 5 week intensive followed by 6 months of continued mentoring and support, encouraging a new generation to make genre-defying work which is rooted in respectful collaboration.

Through Catalyser, Clod Ensemble share their unique approach to interdisciplinary practice with young artists who are interested in dance, music, theatre and visual arts. Participants are given a bursary of £1,000 to participate so that they may have time to develop their creative skills, create new career pathways and be agents of positive social change.

Young artists benefit from bespoke training and mentoring from Artistic Directors Suzy Willson and Paul Clark, Clod Ensemble’s Associate Artists and guest facilitators. Creative workshops include movement, theatre, sound design, visual arts, and architecture. Participants gain access to industry networks, peer-to-peer learning and support, and the use of Clod Ensemble Studios to develop their own work. Alongside creative skills development, Catalyser provides practical workshops on fundraising, networking, self-producing, and how to engage local communities.

The first Catalyser took place over 25 days in Autumn 2022, when Clod Ensemble invited 20 young artists to their studios in North Greenwich.

“Catalyser was an outstanding experience, truly cherished moments of connection and exploration. I loved how much I got to explore and expand on my ways of thinking artistically and creatively. There was a lot of space to be myself which was warm and welcoming.”

“My Catalyser experience has felt like a bridge, helping me to bridge the infamous graduated to ‘career’ gap.”

Feedback from participants

Catalyser has been generously supported by D’Oyly Carte Charitable Trust, Garrick Trust, Portal Trust, Knight Dragon & L&Q.

Images – Catalyser 2022. Credit Vipul-Sangoi.