CDS lives up to being a community that listens closely to early, mid, and late-career artists without reservations.
- Debanjali Biswas, CDS Artist Community Member
Connect with other like-minded artists
We think of ourselves as the choreographers of community. Through joining the Artist Community, you can be part of a network of over 260 independent artists and arts workers. Connect with your peers through our Community WhatsApp group, monthly community zoom calls to discuss shared experiences in the sector. Plus come along to regular in person gatherings with free food and drink.
Access our Cheapest Rate for Studio Hire
We believe artists should have access to affordable space. So in addition to our usual £10 last-minute rate, community artists can book the Performance Studio for £25ph or the Research Studio for £15ph, up to 6 weeks in advance. They also get access to free ‘NextDay’ space programme, which allows them to book our studios completely free of charge, as long as the booking is made within 48 hours of the rehearsal.
Make a difference at CDS and Beyond
As an artist-led organisation, we encourage artists to make their voices heard. Artists help shape CDS’ direction at regular community gatherings, making sure that our programmes reflect artists’ current needs. Artists can deepen their experience in collective organising through organising self-led Peer Groups, taking part in collective decision making, or joining our Artist Committee.
Access resources that support your artistic practice
CDS offer a broad range of trainings, workshops and resources: from how to write your own access rider, to how to budget on a shoestring. CDS artists can sign up to free 30-minute Arts Counselling sessions with staff to receive advice on their projects and funding applications, and our programmes are designed to help artists learn how to make things happen without institutional support.
Applications to join our Artist Community will re-open in January 2027.
Find out more here
Image credit: Scratch Renaissance Contributors Day, April 2025. Photo by Chewboy Productions.