Turtle Key Arts are excited to launch the Joy Artist Development Programme, a new development opportunity for disabled artists as part of Joy Festival 2026.

The Joy Artist Development Programme will support four emerging disabled artists in developing their professional artistic career and practice. The programme will offer 4 artists a programme of 1:1 mentoring, networking, professional seminars with leading disability arts organisations, plus rehearsal time culminating in a performance slot during the Joy Festival Studio performance week in October.

Please read the full information on the programme before applying. All the information can be found on their website including the information pack (full PDF, word & BSL versions)

Key information 

Applications open: Friday 17 July, 10am

Applications close: Monday 17 August, 10am

Informal chats/interviews: w/c 17 August, by arrangement*

Programme start date: 4 September 2026

*Please note we will offer to have short, informal conversations with candidates whose applications we would like to know more about. You may be accepted onto the programme without a chat with the team, or we may invite you to talk to us about your idea if we feel we need further clarification.

How to apply

You can apply to the Artist Development Programme via their online application, or submit a word document via email.