A new way to connect, learn and move your creative practice forward.
Thursday 1st October, 6pm – 8pm | Building 41, Cowes
Drinks & snacks provided. Free to attend.
One of the things we’ve learnt through the IW Creative Network is that some of the best conversations happen after the workshop has finished, around the coffee table, during a Group Crit, or while chatting after a Scratch Night. That’s where ideas are exchanged, confidence grows and new collaborations begin.
This autumn we’re building on that idea with a new series of facilitated monthly conversations for members of the IW Creative Network – Peer Support Sessions.
We know being a creative can sometimes feel like you’re figuring everything out on your own. But everyone has something they can learn, and everyone has something they can share. These Peer Support Sessions are designed to make both possible.
You might be trying to market yourself more confidently, apply for funding, find new clients on and off Island, balance creative work with life, price your work, or simply keep momentum going. While workshops and mentoring can be incredibly valuable, we’ve heard time and again from members that there’s something else that’s needed too – regular opportunities to connect with other creatives facing similar challenges.
These aren’t lectures, presentations or traditional networking events. They’re small, facilitated conversations where creatives come together around the challenges they’re facing right now – whether that’s marketing, funding, confidence, pricing, AI, finding opportunities or maintaining creative momentum. Together, you’ll exchange ideas, share experiences, learn from one another and leave with practical actions to help move your work forward.
Think of it as a space to:
- Share challenges in a supportive environment.
- Learn from other creatives’ experiences.
- Exchange ideas, knowledge and practical advice.
- Build confidence and momentum.
- Develop meaningful connections across the creative community.
- Leave with practical next steps.
Each session will be lightly facilitated to help guide the conversation, but the real value comes from the experience already sitting in the room.
No one is expected to be the expert. Everyone brings different experiences, perspectives and skills – and everyone has something valuable to contribute.
Who is it for?
Peer Support Sessions are open to all members of the IW Creative Network, whatever stage you’re at in your creative career. Whether you’re just starting out, returning to your practice, running an established creative business, or somewhere in between, you’re very welcome.
Help shape the first sessions:
Before we kick things off, we’d love to hear what’s most important to you right now. By completing a short survey, you’ll help us understand the biggest challenges currently facing our members and shape the themes for the first Peer Support Sessions which launches on 1st October, 6-8pm at Building 41 in Cowes.
Complete the survey: CLICK HERE!
Launch event:
Thursday 1st October, 6pm – 8pm
Building 41, Newport Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight PO31 8BX
Drinks & snacks provided. Free to attend.
Book your place: CLICK HERE! Remember to complete the short survey before booking your place.
This first session will help shape how these monthly meet-ups develop, so if you’re interested in being part of something new, we’d love to hear from you!
VENUE INFO:
Building 41 is a modern, fully accessible venue with excellent transport links with a bus stop located just outside on Newport Road, between Ascensos and BAE Systems, just outside of Cowes in Northwood.
Parking & transport: Parking is limited but there will be some spaces available on site. There is also parking available at Somerton Park & Ride (Newport Road, Cowes, PO31 7ER) which is a 5 minute walk away, at £2 per day. We also suggest car sharing where possible – which you can arrange through posting a notice on the IW Creative Network Facebook Forum to other members of the network.
Venue address: Building 41, Newport Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight PO31 8BX
Venue accessibility: The venue offers dedicated parking for those with health conditions or impairments, a disabled lift, wide doorways, and accessible toilets. Please email any access requirements to georgia@iwcreativenetwork.com
IW Creative Network is delivered through Creative Island – the cultural development agency for the Isle of Wight. We help Creatives on the Isle of Wight develop sustainable careers in the creative industries through business support, networking, resources and profiling. A bespoke talent development programme is available for individuals and organisations joining the network, which aims nurture and inspire, allowing Creatives to thrive and become more sustainable.
Explore more and join the network here and follow us here: Instagram & Facebook.