Paid Participatory Artist Traineeships

As part of our commitment to nurturing diverse talent and creating pathways into the creative industries, Maya Productions partnered with Darts, Doncaster’s award-winning Creative Health and Learning Charity, to deliver a programme of paid Participatory Artist Traineeships.

We recruited nine artists who were at an early stage in their careers, or who wished to expand their experience of using their artistic practice to deliver participatory activities that positively impacted people’s lives, learning and wellbeing. The traineeship provided an exciting opportunity to learn, practise and develop alongside highly experienced artists working across Creative Health and Learning settings.

Throughout the programme, trainees received paid professional development and practical experience. They learned from experienced participatory artists and facilitators, observed and co-delivered creative workshops, developed skills in facilitation, engagement and creative leadership, built confidence in working with diverse communities, expanded their professional networks within the Creative Health and Learning sector, and explored pathways into future employment and freelance opportunities.

A key aim of the programme was to support the professional development and career progression of Global Majority artists working in participatory arts, Creative Health and Learning. The traineeship sought to address the underrepresentation of Global Majority practitioners within the sector by creating meaningful opportunities for artists to develop sustainable careers, strengthen their leadership skills and build professional networks.

The programme reflected Maya Productions’ ongoing commitment to championing diverse voices and creating inclusive pathways into the arts, Creative Health and Learning sectors.