Do you feel that you face barriers in having a creative career?
The British Ceramics Biennial (BCB) Mentorship programme welcomes applications from early-career creatives working in clay who feel they face barriers to career progression and accessing a professional network in contemporary ceramics. This may include financial circumstances, ethnicity, education, social class, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, neurodiversity, long-term health conditions or other protected characteristics.
We know that these barriers are real and that talent alone isn’t always enough to build a career in this field. This programme exists to change that.
How support from a mentor can help
The programme will support up to seven early-career artists from October 2026 to February 2027. As a mentee, you’ll receive:
- Four one-to-one online mentoring sessions with an experienced artist, curator or arts professional
- A bespoke artist film about your practise and experience to use for self-promotion
- Promotion across BCB’s communications channels
- Access to a new community – a network of peers also taking part in the programme
- Ongoing support from the BCB team throughout
How mentoring works
You’ll be paired with a mentor and take the lead in asking for guidance on your work and professional practice. Through this, we hope you’ll build stronger connections and open up new, career-enhancing opportunities.
Who can apply?
This programme is open to artists:
- Based in the UK
- Within 5 years of beginning their practice
- Who have been working with clay for at least 1 year
- Who feel they face barriers in accessing a professional network in the field of contemporary ceramics
You do not need to disclose personal details as part of your application unless you choose to.
Please read the application guidance for more detailed information.
Applications close: 12 noon BST, 15 September 2026
Programme duration: October 2026 – February 2027
Cost: Free but there is a time commitment.
Please note that the entire programme will be delivered online.
How to apply
The application form is available on the BCB website.
The application consists of an artist statement and two questions, which you can respond to in audio, video or written form. Recordings should be no more than 5 minutes.
Applicants must also complete the online Diversity and Equality Monitoring Form.
Access support
Access support is specifically available to individuals who feel they face barriers in making an application. If you feel that you face barriers and need support a BCB team member is available to help with your application or for an advice session in advance of your application.
Please email: apply@britishceramicsbiennial.com or call 01782 294 634 to discuss how we can help you.
Please note that the advice we give is on the eligibility and suitability of your application, it will have no bearing on the mentee selection process.
