Grace Wilkinson

BA Theatre and Performance, University of Leeds (2023)

My current role: Arts and Heritage Officer and Freelance Artist
As an Arts and Heritage officer I work with local Bradford communities, building creative workshops to explore the idea of heritage in order to produce an artistic output.

Being working class - my accent gives it away that I will never get into theatre via nepotism or wealth. But I had to use that to my advantage. Don't be scared to be different, be open, be proud, it makes you memorable and people will love you if you are authentic to your background.

What specific skills did you find most valuable in your early career, and how did you develop them?

• Network - if you really focus on chatting to people, going to networking events, eventually work will come to you and it will be so worth those 5/10 minute conversations where you pitch the life out of yourself.
• Be confident - and you can fake it til you make it. Wear your favourite outfit so you feel good when going to events, talk to your mum in the toilet if you feel nervy. As a professional you are a blank canvas, work with that, let it empower you and let whoever you create be confident.
• Look out for traineeships, they are golden opportunities and you'll most likely be hired after.
• Be curious about money - Once you have a good amount of work and experience under your belt. Do not undersell or undercharge for your work. Look at the day rates for your artform. Ask others in a similar position what they charge. If people want you, they will pay.

What networking methods did you find most effective when building connections in your industry?

• Go to events
• Go and see things. Exhibitions, plays etc, whatever you love. And chat to people
•  Look on eventbrite for city wide networking (there's loads)
• Apply for local/ university small grants - they always have networking opportunities
• Have aesthetic business cards always on hand. You never know when you will meet someone useful

How did you find mentors or advisors in your field, and what role did they play in your career progression?

• Ask lecturers to help you connect
• Going to talks and applying for things is great
• Think about your core values as an artist and search those key words online in reference to your artform. This is how I found my mentor, someone introduced us because I was so vocal about what I cared about. My mentor kickstarted my career, I volunteered, then I worked paid for her and I now work for her on a salary and have worked for other companies based on the experience I gained working for her. I grew with the company which I think is really special.

What resources or support networks were most helpful to you as a working class and neurodivergent professional in the creative industry?

• Instagram
• Axis web
• Being open and proud about my struggles/background - you find like minded people
• University networks (e.g SPARK, Berkofsky Arts Award, PCI)

Based on your experience, what specific actions should students take to prepare for and succeed in the creative industries?
Start with your core values, your brand. Then start finding your people and network. Without a network you have no career.

What are the emerging trends in your field that aspiring creatives should be aware of?
Community and participation being mandatory (which I think is a very positive movement)