Freelance Creative Practitioner

Creative Scotland; Aberdeen City; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

An arts organization in Aberdeen is seeking an experienced visual artist to lead learning workshops for pupils aged 10–17 as part of the William Syson Travel Initiative. The role involves designing and delivering inclusive activities, making creativity accessible to all. The successful candidate will have proven experience in leading visual arts sessions for children and a strong understanding of the Scottish Curriculum for Excellence. This freelance position offers a rate of up to £360 per day for workshops scheduled from February to May 2026.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading visual arts sessions for children and young people.
• Ability to create a welcoming, inclusive environment for diverse learners.

Responsibilities

• Lead workshops for pupils aged 10–17 exploring various artistic techniques.
• Design inclusive activities aligned with the Scottish Curriculum for Excellence.

Skills

Leading visual arts sessions for children

Knowledge of the Scottish Curriculum for Excellence

Collaborative team work

Creating an inclusive environment

Job description

Overview

We are seeking an experienced visual artist to join our engagement delivery team on a freelance basis for the William Syson Travel Initiative Schools’ Programme at Aberdeen Art Gallery. You will lead learning workshops exploring pattern, texture, procession, and portraiture, using accessible techniques such as Gelli Printing and Cyanotype. Sessions introduce pupils to the Gallery, its collection, the Sculpture Court and the theme of portraiture. This programme supports a diverse range of learners, including those with Additional Support Needs (ASN) and complex health conditions. We need a practitioner who can design and deliver inclusive, engaging activities aligned with the Scottish Curriculum for Excellence, making creativity exciting and accessible for all.

When & Where

Aberdeen Art Gallery
Tuesdays and Thursdays (mornings) during school term
February – May 2026
Each session: 90 minutes (including 45 minutes of workshop activity)

Who

Pupils aged 10–17 years

Who we’re looking for

• Proven experience leading visual arts sessions for children and young people
• Knowledge of the Scottish Curriculum for Excellence
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
• Skills to create a welcoming, inclusive environment for learners with varied needs

Fees & Payment

We are guided by Scottish Artists Union rates offering up to £360 per day. Covers delivery, preparation, set‑up, and clear‑away. Budget for up to 20 sessions (up to 3 hours). Materials and equipment provided. Payment by invoice.

How to apply

Email [e-mail] with subject line: SYSON Artist Opportunity.
Include:
Covering letter (up to 500 words) explaining:
• Why you are applying and what you can bring
• Your experience and interest in the role
• Your CV
• Proposed fee for up to 20 sessions (10 days work) and breakdown
• Examples of accessible art‑making activities you have delivered
• Indication of your availability for the listed dates

Deadline

5pm, Friday 9 January. Decision by 5pm, Monday 19 January.