About the Open Call

Deptford X is launching a new DX Associates Programme designed to support and elevate early-career artists and curators from under-represented Global Majority and working class backgrounds. Over nine months, three selected artists or curators will work closely with the Deptford X team, receiving structured and responsive support to help develop their practices, networks and opportunities. This programme continues one of our priorities in response to underrepresentation in the arts, and so applications are open to early career artists and curators living in or working within the London Borough of Lewisham or around its borders. What the Programme consists of: Monthly meetings with the Deptford X team: Check-ins, resource-sharing, skill development and introductions. Input into DX programme development: including our Artist Weekender 2026 and Festival 2027 where the cohort helps shape aspects of the future DX programme. Introductions, signposting and brokering opportunities: including potential gallery connections, curatorial guidance and sector access. A supportive community: working as a small cohort of three, fostering collaboration, solidarity and shared learning. A fee of £2,000 for each DX Associate to participate in the programme.

What is Offered

Monthly meetings with the Deptford X team: Check-ins, resource-sharing, skill development and introductions. Input into DX programme development: including our Artist Weekender 2026 and Festival 2027 where the cohort helps shape aspects of the future DX programme. Introductions, signposting and brokering opportunities: including potential gallery connections, curatorial guidance and sector access. A supportive community: working as a small cohort of three, fostering collaboration, solidarity and shared learning. A fee of £2,000 for each DX Associate to participate in the programme.

Requirements

We welcome applications from: Early-career practitioners seeking structured support and professional development. By early career we mean an artist, regardless of age, who is within the first 7 years of commencing their practice, whether from completion of formal or non-accredited learning programmes, or completely self-taught. This also include artists who may have had a significant break from their practice and within the first 7 years of recommencing their practice. Artists and curators who identify as having working class or Global Majority backgrounds (e.g. Black African, Black Caribbean, South Asian, East Asian, South East Asian) Artists and curators who live or work in the London Borough of Lewisham or around its borders.

How to Apply

Applicants should use the provided 'APPLY HERE' link to submit their application. Interviews will be held the week commencing 2 February 2026.