The COMPASS: Emerging Maker Programme 2021 focuses on nurturing talent and equipping individual makers with the skills they need to create a successful, sustainable, resilient business and creative practice. From jewellery designer/makers to textile and ceramic artists, discover the seven makers taking part in this year’s programme. 

COMPASS: Emerging Makers Programme 2021 has been designed to provide emerging makers with the building blocks to develop their craft business. The programme started in January 2021 with a series of nine online workshops running until April 2021. Delivered by knowledgeable workshop leaders who understand the day to day of being a maker, participants will be guided through the fundamentals of running a craft business, including finance, marketing, branding, and navigating the craft sector today. Explore this year's programme and meet the speakers taking part. 

The programme will also include a five-day immersive residential held at the renowned arts centre Hospitalfield in Arbroath. Participants will work through case studies, engage in peer-to-peer critiques, and explore their personal, professional and creative values. This element of the programme is an opportunity to address each participant’s unique needs and requirements.  

The programme takes a practical approach to nurturing a creative business through the early stages of development. Following the residential, participants will be paired with a mentor suited to their needs, these sessions may take place in person, by phone or via an online method (Skype, Zoom etc.). There will also be access to one-to-one advice through dedicated individual surgeries.  

COMPASS: Dedicated Places

We know that specific groups of makers are systematically under-supported in the craft sector and for 2021 Craft Scotland created dedicated places for makers on this programme with lived experience of being Black, Asian, Mixed Heritage and/or a Person of Colour, refugee, D/deaf, disabled and/or working class.

COMPASS is Craft Scotland’s learning and development programme created specifically for makers. COMPASS focuses on developing craft talent and equipping individuals with the necessary skills to create a sustainable craft practice. 

Craft Scotland have created three programmes to provide support for a wide range of craft careers: Next Generation, Emerging Maker and Established Maker. Participants can cultivate networks and develop their knowledge about selling effectively, marketing, entrepreneurship and more. COMPASS is supported by the William Grant Foundation and Creative Scotland. 

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Statement:  

In light of the ongoing Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the programme may be subject to change.