Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Space by AZM CIC?
The Space by AZM CIC is a creative and cultural platform supporting visibility, opportunity and access for UK-based designers, artists and creative practitioners.
We support creative practice through programmes, applications, exhibitions, pop-ups, residencies, mentorship, partnerships, international cultural exchange and related opportunities.
Who can apply?
The Space by AZM CIC is intended for UK-based designers, artists and creative practitioners.
This may include fashion designers, visual artists, photographers, filmmakers, performers, dancers, textile artists, makers, sound artists, musicians, curators, interdisciplinary creatives and others working within the creative and cultural sectors.
Do I have to be an established artist or designer?
No. The Space by AZM CIC is open to creatives at different stages of their journey, including emerging, developing, under-resourced and underrepresented practitioners.
Applications will be considered based on the quality, potential, relevance and suitability of the work or proposal.
Is The Space by AZM CIC only for fashion designers?
No. Although The Space by AZM CIC has strong links to fashion, visual culture, editorial practice and creative production, the platform is broader than fashion.
We welcome designers, artists, makers, performers, photographers, filmmakers, textile practitioners, dancers, sound artists and interdisciplinary creatives.
Is it only for UK-based creatives?
Yes. The Space by AZM CIC exists to support UK-based creatives.
The work may be promoted, presented or developed in the UK and internationally, but applicants should be based in the UK unless a specific opportunity states otherwise.
What kind of opportunities may be available?
Opportunities may include :
- exhibitions
- pop-ups
- residencies
- mentoring
- creative development
- portfolio or practice visibility
- press or promotional support
- curated showcases
- partnerships
- international cultural exchange
- supported or subsidised access to professional services
The type of support available may vary depending on funding, partnerships, resources, programme capacity and the nature of each opportunity.
Does applying guarantee support?
No. Submitting an application does not guarantee selection, funding, representation, mentoring, exhibition, residency, promotion or any other opportunity.
Applications will be reviewed based on eligibility, suitability, available resources, programme fit and the mission of The Space by AZM CIC.
Do I need to pay to apply?
Unless otherwise stated, application information will be clearly explained on the relevant page or form.
If any paid service, fee, contribution or cost applies to a specific opportunity, this will be communicated before applicants commit to participation.
Can students apply?
Yes, students and recent graduates may apply where they meet the relevant eligibility criteria.
The Space by AZM CIC may also work with students through placements, mentoring, project support, volunteering or supervised creative activity.
Can collectives apply?
Yes, collectives, collaborators and community-led creative projects may be considered where the opportunity allows it.
One person should usually act as the main contact for the application.
Can disabled creatives apply?
Yes. The Space by AZM CIC welcomes applications from disabled creatives and people with access needs.
Where possible, reasonable steps will be considered to support participation, access and communication.
Can dancers, performers or musicians apply?
Yes. The Space by AZM CIC is not limited to static visual work.
We welcome performance, movement, sound, music, interdisciplinary practice and experimental creative work where it fits the relevant opportunity.
Can I apply if I do not have a full portfolio?
Yes, depending on the opportunity.
You may be able to submit examples of work, images, a short proposal, a biography, a statement, a website, social media links or other materials that show your practice clearly.
Will The Space by AZM CIC own my work if I apply?
No. The Space by AZM CIC does not claim ownership of creative work simply because it is submitted.
If selected work is to be published, promoted, exhibited or used publicly, permission or separate terms may be requested.
How will I know if I am selected?
Applicants will be contacted using the details provided in their application.
Response times may vary depending on the number of applications, programme deadlines, funding, partners and internal capacity.
Can I apply more than once?
Yes, unless a specific opportunity states otherwise.
If you are not selected for one opportunity, you may still apply for future opportunities.
Can businesses, sponsors or partners contact The Space by AZM CIC?
Yes. The Space by AZM CIC welcomes enquiries from potential partners, sponsors, funders, venues, cultural organisations, education providers, brands, institutions and supporters whose values align with the CIC’s mission.
How can I support The Space by AZM CIC?
Support may include sponsorship, donations, partnership, funding, in-kind support, venue access, mentoring, professional expertise, materials, services or other forms of collaboration.
Support should align with the mission, values and community-interest purpose of The Space by AZM CIC.
Who do I contact?
For general enquiries, applications, partnerships, sponsorship or press, please use the contact details provided on the website.