We are excited to relaunch Connecting Makers, a growing programme of professional development and paid opportunities for and from our Members, shaped by what you told us you needed most. Whether in-person or online, Connecting Makers helps you meet fellow makers, share ideas, learn new skills and build a sustainable creative practice together.
A lot to takeaway and develop, gives me the confidence to get started on my own brand
PARTICIPANT
Who is it for?
Connecting Makers is for professional makers and creative practitioners across Scotland. Following our main themes, activity will be developed and delivered by our Members, for our Members. Free for Applied Arts Scotland Members and charged for everyone else. Discover the benefits of AAS Membership and how to join here.
Watch back: Connecting Makers Launch Event 2026
Watch back for a summary of Members Survey results and an overview of the new Connecting Makers programme.
Next up…
Connecting Makers: The International Glasgow Artist-Led Soap Dish Biennale 2026, Premier Edition
Building on the ‘The First International Artist-Led Soapdish Market of Glasgow 2024’, AAS Member Morven Mulgrew continues her endeavours for soapdish related artistry with a makers gathering and Panel in the form of an International Exposition of Soapdishes, a Discussion on soapdishes featuring Mairi Mackenzie, Rhona Patterson and AAS Member Alice Dansey-Wright and a pavilion showcasing the best in contemporary Soapdish making.Connecting Makers Themes
As the programme continues to grow, resources will be developed and added under each theme for Applied Arts Scotland Members to watch back. Not a Member yet? Join Applied Arts Scotland here.
Portfolio revenue streams, grant writing, open calls for artists in community, commissions, crowdfunding, licensing.
Watch back our session In Pursuit of Funding with Helen Voce and Funding Applications Mini Series with Carrie Fertig and Amy Benzie.
Selling face-to-face, retail, wholesale, trade & retail fairs (UK & international).
Watch back our session with Karin Celestine of Celestine and The Hare: Build Your Tribe and Selling Face-to-Face with Carrie Fertig.
Branding, websites, newsletters, social media selling. Watch back our Grow Your Practice Through Online Workshops and Branding and Storytelling with Canva.
Residencies, collaboration.
Drafting contracts, rates of pay.
How to get involved
We are inviting our Members to host or contribute to this programme of activity, paid at Scottish Artists Union rates of pay:
- Host an Interactive Learning Session – Talks, workshops or panels, online or in-person.
- Lead on a Makers Gathering – Bring local makers together to share skills, discuss local needs or plan future collaborations.
- Pitch New Ideas – Got expertise or ideas we haven’t listed? Tell us.
Got an idea for a Connecting Makers Session?
If you would like to be involved or if you have any questions, email us at hello@appliedartsscotland.org.uk with the subject line Connecting Makers.
