Catalyser, Clod Ensemble’s flagship artist development programme, is returning for 2026.
Catalyser is a free, three-week intensive skills and professional development programme specifically for young creatives aged 18 to 25. It gives participants the opportunity to work with Clod Ensemble’s Artistic Directors, Suzy Willson & Paul Clark, as well as a range of associate artists and guest facilitators.
This year’s Catalyser will focus on socially engaged practice – using artistic and creative skills to work directly with people and communities outside of traditional arts spaces. We are looking for musicians, dancers, visual artists and performers with an interest in taking their expertise to sectors such as healthcare, education or social work.
The programme dates are as follows:
The workshops will draw on Clod Ensemble’s 30 years of experience and case studies from their extensive archive. Sessions cover a broad range of areas including: facilitation, workshop planning, producing, international collaboration, working with children and elders, accessibility and creative health.
Following the initial intensive, participants receive 6 months of continued professional development support, including mentoring and access to our studio space.
HOW TO APPLY
Please Note: Applicants must be able to attend one of the three taster workshops to be considered for a place.
To submit an expression of interest, please complete the short form found through Eventbrite here (the form will appear promptly after registering to attend a taster workshop)
Catalyser welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and artistic disciplines. We are particularly interested in hearing from those who have faced barriers to a career in the arts. These barriers might be social, financial, structural, or a combination of all of three.
BURSARY INFORMATION
All participants will receive a travel bursary, to cover the cost of return travel to the studio (approx £10.50). We have a limited number of programme bursaries which is an additional £25 a day. Programme bursaries are for people who would not otherwise be able to participate.
If you have any questions, please contact Fraser at fraser@clodensemble.com
Catalyser 2026 has been generously supported by the City Bridge Foundation, the D’oyly Carte Charitable Trust and The Finzi Trust.
April saw the start of the 2024 edition of Clod Ensemble’s artist development programme for young creative practitioners.
Clod Ensemble’s free skills and professional development programme for young creative practitioners returns in April 2024.
