Cross Borders

Overview

Cross Borders is a programme of arts and cultural activism projects led by Scottish Refugee Council. These projects include mentoring, commissions and collaborations with artists, activists and creative practitioners from refugee and other migrant backgrounds in Scotland. We advocate for the rights, care and protection of artists and activists whilst facilitating connections, support, exchange and artistic activity.

Who is it for?

Cross Borders is for anyone with a creative or cultural practice who has sought refugee protection or been forcibly displaced and is currently living in Scotland. These practices can include but are not limited to visual arts, curation, artistic production, music, performance, cooking, dance, literature, design, journalism, cultural heritage and community organising/ engagement. We support people who were already working in these areas before coming to Scotland. We also work with people who weren’t able to pursue their practice in their home country. Lots of the people we work with have fled places where cultural censorship made it impossible for them to express themselves creatively in open society.

How it works

The programme aims to support a peer solidarity network of practitioners to make connections and exchange knowledge and ideas. Projects will run on an annual basis until 2024.

Mentoring: Practitioners can be matched with a professionally established mentor, receive small grants to support professional and talent development and one to one dedicated mentor support.

Projects: We commission direct and open call artistic and community activism projects which are refugee and migrant led. Projects are also closely supported in planning and production by our team and partner organisations.

Events: We host network meet ups and gatherings in person and online, exhibitions and workshops, film screenings, talks and discussions.

Digital: We are creating a digital platform featuring associates' profiles, projects, learning, resources and opportunities. Visit us soon at cross-borders.org.