Where will this course lead?

The Get Gallery Ready Bootcamp is your gateway to success in the arts and cultural sector. Whether you're an aspiring or emerging artist, creative entrepreneur, or freelancer, this Bootcamp equips you with the skills and knowledge to showcase your work confidently in galleries and cultural spaces. By the end of the Bootcamp, you will have built a professional portfolio, gained curatorial experience, and developed storytelling techniques that elevate your artistic practice.

Participants will benefit from one-on-one mentorship with Ruth Millington, a highly respected art historian, critic, curator, and author. The Bootcamp also offers professional feedback on gallery statements and portfolios. You'll also gain hands-on experience in curating your work and collaborating on group exhibits.

Additional Benefits

Additionally, you'll grow your network within the West Midlands arts community and learn to navigate the dynamic arts sector with leadership skills. This course provides the tools to create impactful projects, negotiate partnerships, and foster a sustainable creative career.

Beyond practical skills, you'll develop sustainable business strategies tailored to the arts sector and build relationships with cultural organisations in the region. The Bootcamp is designed to set you apart as a creative leader, ready to engage diverse audiences and deliver impactful exhibitions.

What will I study?

Over the course of seven weeks, the Bootcamp will support your development in fundamental curatorial skills by mastering the art of storytelling and creating inclusive, accessible exhibitions that engage diverse audiences. Build a professional portfolio by crafting compelling gallery statements and refining your approach to presenting work, promoting yourself and ensuring you're prepared for gallery open calls and the process of bringing exhibits to life. Enhance your understanding of sustainable business practices, including negotiating partnerships and securing funding for your artistic projects.

How will this course be delivered?

This seven-week Bootcamp will run twice a week, on Mondays and Tuesdays, typically 10-4pm blending practical training, mentorship, and real-world experience. Sessions will take place in person at Solihull College with opportunities for gallery visits and community engagement projects.

Transform your passion into a profession with the Get Gallery Ready Bootcamp. Ready to step into the spotlight of the arts world?!

What qualifications will I get?

There is no formal qualification.

How will I be assessed?

There is no formal assessment.

How do I get a place on the course?

Applicants are invited to enrol on the link below. Limited spaces available. Applications now open. Apply now to register interest.

What are the entry requirements?

To qualify for this FREE* course, you must be over 19 years of age, live in the West Midlands Combined Authority area postcode (Birmingham, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton), Coventry or Warwick.

Applicants for the Get into Gallery Bootcamp may come from a diverse range of backgrounds and motivations, including:

• Industry Professionals in the West Midlands: Professionals currently working in the creative industry in the West Midlands region who want to broaden their skillset.
• Freelancers in the Industry: Freelancers with experience in the Creative or cultural sector who want to expand their skillset and network within the field.
• Job Seekers Seeking Skill Enhancement: Individuals actively seeking employment opportunities who wish to gain new skills, bolster their confidence, and accumulate valuable industry experience.

This bootcamp offers a versatile learning environment that caters to a broad range of applicants with varying levels of experience and career objectives.

What else do I need to know?

Due to the nature of the course, we will be travelling around the West Midlands for workshops. This course is Free if you are aged 19+ and live in West Midlands, Coventry or Warwickshire area.

*Free subject to eligibility criteria