Introduction to AA2A

AA2A (Artists Access to Art Colleges) provides artists and designer-makers with access to workshops and equipment in our host universities and colleges. We also provide students with information on self-employment, bridging the gap between studying and building a creative career.

• Placements are free for artists with the average scheme costing host universities £1,400
• Hosts choose their own artists, offering at least 100 hours access usually between October and June
• Artists work alongside students and act as positive career role models, offering to do up to three sessions (e.g. talks or demonstrations)
• AA2A’s employability package supports students and graduates with self-employment information specifically aimed at creatives
• Schemes also include web profiles for artists to document their residency, Creative Support Groups, AA2A Plus Collections and Student Reps etc.

In 2022-23 there are 11 institutions hosting AA2A schemes across England, each offering four to six placements for their chosen creatives. Applications open each summer and typical facilities available include workshops, access to lending libraries and lecture programmes.

AA2A particularly welcomes applications from artists with disabilities, from culturally diverse backgrounds and non-graduates. Our Artist Support Fund can provide expenses of up to £350 for those on a low income.

AA2A Ltd is a social enterprise company and an Arts Council England Investment Principle Support Organisation (IPSO) for the Visual Arts. Find out more about the history and management of AA2A here.