The creative industries

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) defines the creative industries as 'those industries that are based on individual creativity, skill and talent. They are also those that have the potential to create wealth and jobs through developing intellectual property.'

• Careers in the creative industries
• Finding jobs in the creative industries
• Funding information

Careers in the creative industries

If you are a talented artist, designer, writer, musician, photographer or multimedia designer, then you are likely to want to work in a creative industry. You can work as a freelancer or work for a larger company that employs you for your creative talent and skill. The creative industries include:

• animation and illustration
• three-dimensional, product and interior design
• fashion and textile design
• fine art including painting, printmaking and sculpture
• journalism and writing
• music
• photography
• performing arts
• multimedia
• new media
• graphic design.

There is more information about the creative industries in the UK on the following websites:

• Arts Council
  The national development agency for the arts in England. Includes information on funding opportunities, employment and exhibitions.
• Axis Artists
  Showcase for contemporary British artists and creatives. Add your details to the Axis database to be browsed by potential clients.
• Careers in Art History
  Published 2006 by the Association of Art Historians.
• Creative & Cultural Skills
  The main industry-led organisation for this sector. Covers advertising, crafts, cultural heritage, design, music, and performing, visual and literary arts.
• National Society for Education in Art and Design
  Leading national organisation concerned with art, craft and design in education.
• Prospects sector guide - creative art and culture
• Target Jobs sector profiles – art and design
• Your Creative Future
  Information about the creative industries and the wide range of careers and jobs available.
• The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS)

Finding jobs in the creative industries

The University of Brighton Careers Centre produces a monthly newsletter for artist and designers, Artyfacts. It carries job vacancies, competitions, commissions and residencies.

There are many websites dedicated to helping graduates find jobs in creative industries. For job listings try the following websites: 

• Arts Culture Media jobs
• Artsjobsonline
• Arts Industry Magazine
• Arts Job Finder
• Artjobster
• The Arts Information Company
• Jobs.ac.uk 

If you are wanting to find potential employers then you could use a directory such as The Creative Handbook.

Funding information

• Awards for All
  A Lottery grants scheme for local communities.
• Arts Council funding
  Details about the Arts Council funds the arts in the UK.
• British Arts
• The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS)
  Details of government policy on and sources of funding for the arts.
• a-n funding applications
  A guide to completing funding applications from a-n magazine.