Get involved: Call for Young Creatives (16-24 years)
Join ‘Communities of Making’, a new project exploring our local linen heritage and traditions of making
If you’re aged 16-24, have an interest in history, art, textiles or heritage crafts, and want experience in the museum, then join our new free programme. ‘Communities of Making’ will explore our local linen heritage and traditions of making. You’ll take part in workshops, create art, explore our collections and linen heritage, peek behind-the-scenes in the museum, learn about endangered crafts, and co-curate a major touring exhibition. This display will tour Lisburn, and partners in Scotland (Highlife Highland and Folk Museum and Inverness Museum & Art Gallery) and Wales (CofGâr – Carmarthenshire Museum) in 2027.
What are we offering?
- Artistic workshops on art, weaving, design, photography and more.
- Explore museum collections, in Lisburn, Wales and Scotland
- Co-curate a display, and major touring exhibition. Have your voice heard!
- Work closely with an artist and our weavers, to produce a new artwork
- Travel! Fieldtrips to local heritage sites, and a residential trip to museum partners in the Highlands, Scotland. We pay all costs.
- An honorarium, or payment, for young creatives who participate in the sessions
- Meet new people, network, and work with peers, museum staff, and artists
- Develop a range of new skills, including teamwork, design, exhibition making and crafting
- Refreshments are provided.
Am I eligible?
If you’re aged 16-24, have an interest in history, art, textiles or traditional crafts, and are looking to gain experience in the museum, heritage and craft sector, then get in touch. We ask for a commitment of three hours per month, although sometimes more.
The programme is open to participants from across Northern Ireland, although preference will be given to 16–24-year-olds from the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council area.
How does it work?
Our meetings will be held once a month in the museum, on an evening or weekend. This is your programme, and there’s flexibility to choose times and dates. We plan to run from March to October 2026, with a trip to Scotland in June. There is no cost to join the programme, and you will receive a one-off payment for taking part.
Where do I apply?
To apply, please complete an application form here: << applications have now closed>>
We need basic information, such as:
- Your name, age and where you live
- A brief bit about yourself
- Why you’d like to be part of the project.
If you can’t complete the form, please submit the same details by texting WhatsApp: 07816078706 or emailing: goingplaces@lisburnmuseum.com
You don’t need experience with museums, exhibitions or heritage crafts to apply. You don’t need any qualifications.
Closing date is Tuesday 24 February 2026.
Ask questions, submit your application or find out more by texting WhatsApp: 07816078706 or emailing: goingplaces@lisburnmuseum.com.
Going Places is an Art Fund programme made possible with major support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and The Julia Rausing Trust, with additional support from a generous group of trusts, foundations and individuals. The Communities of Making network is supported directly by the Swire Charitable Trust and other generous supporters.