Everywhere Playground with Sam Williams

Everywhere Playground is a five-day experimental, educational and open-ended proposal for creative questioning and exploration. The week's activities are inspired by Dada; by the 1960's ‘Happenings’ involving artists such as Allan Kaprow, Robert Whitman and Carolee Schneemann; by the Japanese collectives Jikken Kobo (Experimental Workshop) and Gutai Bijutsu Kyokai (Gutai Art Association); by the interdisciplinary experiments of Black Mountain College; by the convergence of dance and visual art at the Judson Dance Theater in New York; by the fluxus events of artists such as Yoko Ono and Ben Patterson; and by the experiences of failure and discovery that come with being an artist. During the 5 days, you will; have an introduction to Somerset House and Sam Williams’ practice explore the possibilities of improvisation, composition and collage explore different forms of free, experimental making – such as collage, event scores, automatic drawing, free-writing, performance “happenings” and improvised sound and music learn about what gave rise to the various art movements, moments and collectives which inform our actions as a group, build towards the creation of an extended period of experimentation Each day will follow a set structure with time for rest breaks. On each day, there will be a 1-hour lunch break with lunch provided.

This opportunity is for young people ages 16-19 who haven’t studied an art subject at university level. This programme will prioritise people from underrepresented backgrounds*. If you have an interest in experimenting with, a range of artistic disciplines including, but not limited to: video art/artist moving image, sound art, sculpture, performance, dance, writing, poetry and conceptual art, this project is for you! It is important that you can attend all 5 days of the project. *The Inclusive Talent Engagement team at Somerset House acknowledges that particular people are underrepresented in the British creative sector. Particularly those who are: Ethnically diverse and/or Global majority Differently abled or Living with a disability Working class and/or from a lower socio-economic background* We also acknowledge the underrepresentation of those who self-identify as: LGBTQIA+ and/or non-binary Neuro-divergent We also acknowledge that people face barriers in many ways not mentioned above, and we are open to hearing from anyone who considers themselves to be underrepresented in the creative sector. *Some questions that might help define lower socio-economic background: Were you on free school meals? Did your parents receive income benefits for a long period? Did your parents go to university?

This programme is for motivated individuals with passion and creative flair. No prior experience necessary, but a willingness to play, experiment, collaborate and challenge your own boundaries through working in a group is important. You should be happy to contribute to creative discussions and work with others, open to trying new things with a desire to explore your own creative process and question what you consider to be an artwork. You may: be studying (or planning to study) art or another creative course at college or have enjoyed these subjects at school spend your spare time writing, drawing or making music want to explore making creative work with others have an open mind and want to challenge yourself and your ideas about art and collaboration.

The workshop week will be an introduction to the real-world of an arts career, outside of a classroom environment. You will be inspired by artists and creators who have established themselves in the arts world. Do the following words spark your curiosity? If so, we welcome you to apply! chaos collaboration composition improvisation communication play spontaneity structure imperfection possibility action inaction

The week is free of charge to participants. Reasonable travel expenses will be covered, and lunch will be provided.

Somerset House’s Upgrade Yourself programmes exist to remove barriers and increase representation in the arts and creative sector. Produced by the Inclusive Talent Engagement team, we aim to include underrepresented young audiences, while also focusing on giving emerging talent aged 16-30 access to skills, experiences and progression routes to pursue careers in the creative sector, connecting to the Somerset House programme and resident creative community.