GRAIN Projects (Birmingham), FORMAT, and QUAD (Derby) are delighted to announce a new iteration of the East Meets West Masterclass Programme, delivered through a combination of online and in-person sessions.

The masterclass programme is for UK based emerging photographers and offers professional development, inspiration, guidance and support in a collaborative learning environment to allow participants to develop their practice, networks and new unique opportunities.

The programme will offer a platform for photographers to receive guidance and participate in focused discussions that will contribute to their creative practice and career development.

The masterclasses will be led by industry and artform leaders who will share their knowledge and practical advice on developing a successful career.

This opportunity is aimed at emerging photographers and recent graduates currently based in the UK wishing to broaden their perspectives and push the boundaries of their professional development. We welcome diverse and innovative submissions.

The cost for the Masterclass Programme is £250 and will be payable once accepted onto the programme. We have two bursary places available at £150, for participants who live in either the West or East Midlands.

There will be a production budget provided for participants to work as a collective to create an Exhibition and other potential self-directed joint outcomes of their choosing, such as a newspaper, publication or event to be presented at the FORMAT International Photography Festival, FORMAT27 biennale edition in Derby in March 2027.

Masterclass Leaders

Diane Smyth (Editor, Photoworks Annual and British Journal of Photography, UK)
Asha Iman Veil (Curator, France/US)
Zula Rabikowska (Photographer and East EMW Masterclass Participant, UK/Poland)
Emily Ryalls (Photographer and past EMW Masterclass Participant, UK)
Chris Neophytou (Publisher, Out of Place Books and Photographer, UK)
Ayesha Jones (Photographer, UK)
Lewis Khan (Photographer, UK)
Arpita Shah (Photographer, UK/ India)

How to Apply

Please send your applications as one PDF to programme@derbyquad.co.uk with ‘East Meets West Application’ in the subject line.

  • CV
  • Outline explaining why you would like to apply for the programme and how you think it will benefit you (maximum 250 words).
  • Link to your website and social media and a PDF with a selection of images.
  • If you are based in the West or East Midlands please note on your application if you would like to be considered for both the bursary price and standard price.

East Meets West is supported by Arts Council England, Birmingham City University, Derby City Council and the University of Derby.

We are committed to making the application process accessible. If you have a disability or access support needs and need help with the application process or would prefer to send your application in an alternative format please contact us on programme@derbyquad.co.uk.

Image: © Amy Dagorne

Masterclass Schedule (subject to change)

Monday 14 September: Evening Session, Online
Saturday 17 October: Full Day Session, Birmingham
Wednesday 9 December: Evening Session, Online
Saturday 16 January: Full Day Session, Online
Saturday 20 February: Full Day Session, Derby
Thursday 11 March: FORMAT27 Launch