Watching young creatives float about menial jobs, beaten into submission via fatigue and poverty is heartbreaking. Even those who pursue other avenues but still have the burning desire to create, tucked away behind “real life” responsibilities. Stop forgetting to nourish that part of yourself. Capitalism forces us to conjure fiscally rewarding schemes out of any “hobby” or interest we have. It is okay to do something just because you like it. Make something because you want to, not just to sell on Etsy :). Capitalistic views of existence have seeped into our homes, invading our private life. Some could even argue it chips away at the very nature of humanity. We did not evolve to become workaholics, yearning for the freedom that wealth provides in this dystopian corporate hellscape.
Regardless, I wanted to compile some resources for my beautiful artists who feel lost. Who have forgotten to chase joy and desire. Get yourself together guys. Let’s paint the world. The creative world isn’t as daunting as you imagine it to be. Let’s find you the first or next stepping stone.
What are you scared of?
◦ Working Class Creatives! I have been a follower of this organisation for a long old time. WCC provide a plethora of opportunities to (you guessed it) working-class creatives. This includes a wide range of artistic expression outside of just traditional fine art. They advertise exhibition opportunities, studio space, working vacancies and more. WCC always seem to have their members at the core of what they do. This is a great page on Instagram to follow if you want to passively see opportunities floating into your feed or one you can just as easily be actively involved in. Get networking and show them some support.
◦ Out of rage. Out of Rage is primarily a networking-focused organisation supporting journalists, photographers and videographers passionate about the underground music scene. If you want advice, exposure or even invites to some sick gigs; this is the space for you. After very recently “blowing up” on TikTok, their followers have watched their page grow and evolve to cater for a much larger but equally eager audience. In particular, I admire the support toward improvement that Out of Rage offers. They have documents full of criteria you should be aiming to meet with your pieces and also offer friendly advice. As previously mentioned this is also a brilliant networking platform, from other people just starting out to old pros and more. Out of Rage has really captured my heart as an authentic space with music at the forefront of what they do.
◦ Camden grunge scene. Another networking opportunity with a focus on music. After joining the CGS group chat full of fellow gig-goers, music lovers and all-around phenomenal gremlins; I mentioned how I wrote about a gig I attended. Not only was I met with support, encouragement and even some valued constructive criticism; but the admins themselves were also quick to offer their open arms. Camden Grunge Scene has formed an impressive base of alternative music lovers and has showcased numerous up-and-coming bands. In particular, the band Never Under has seen 4 sell-out shows with CGS. I do not doubt that CGS would be just as supportive of other small bands, writers or photographers who get in touch. Noah (singer, songwriter and co-founder of the Camden Grunge Scene promises; "This is the foundation of something bigger. You'll see". You're not going to want to miss out on the rise of this trail-blazing community.
◦ Odd critic. A publication with a special place in my heart. Selling themselves as being a loudmouth platform expressing unpopular opinions on whatever they want to talk about, odd critic showcases unbridled literary talent. Other than my sheepish fan girling over their page, I have no personal connection to them but find it hard to imagine they wouldn’t welcome other young creatives with open arms. Get submitting your foulest opinions that no one wants to hear about. I just might join you.
Side note: I just went and stalked their Instagram and realised they have a very professional-looking page with a vibrant feed. It’s just begging for people like you to add to it.
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