Bored at home in lockdown 2.0 and want to upskill yourself? Tap into the digital world of creative events, ranging from interactive workshops to industry talks.

The current circumstances have put a strain on the creative industry. Under the fog of uncertainty, it could be another long while before in-person events can reconvene. However, with high spirits, the show must go on and this year we have witnessed the evolution of the creative industry into the digital world. Companies are learning to adapt to ensure that we can still enjoy art and keep in touch with our creativity all from the comfort of our homes. From networking events to fashion illustration workshops, there is so much going on in the online creative world that you cannot miss out on, providing us with the much needed hour or two of escapism.

 

If you’re looking to get creative, learn something new, or just pass some time in lockdown 2.0, we’ve got your back. Check out our pick of the best (free) digital events below.

1. An evening with Zanele Muholi and Lady Phyll

Zanele Muholi is a visual activist that documents and celebrates the lives of South Africa’s Black trans, queer and intersex communities. Lady Phyll is also known for her work in activism and advocacy for queer, trans and intersex people of colour in the UK and is the co-founder and executive director of UK Black Pride. To kick off the event, attendees will have the opportunity to watch Zanele Muholi’s documentary, ‘Difficult Love’ (2010), then they will begin a conversation around what difficult love looks like for QTIPOC communities in South Africa and Britain and the importance of chosen families.

When? Thursday 17th November 2020. 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM GMT

 

2. Fashion Illustration Workshop (Collage Techniques)

Lead by designer, fashion illustrator and sketchbook tutor, Anastasia Grigoryeva, this session will equip you with the right techniques necessary to set you apart from the pool of designers in the industry. It aims to prepare students who are looking to work as fashion designers in design studios, through drawing exercises and workshops to explore the imagination. You will need to bring the following materials (all of which you can find at your local supermarket): fashion catalogues, old magazines to cut, glue, paper A3, black and grey pens and scissors.

When? Tuesday 17th November 2020. 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM GMT

 

3. In Session: Self-Management Strategies For Musicians

Notorious for their underground acoustic gigs around London, Sofar Sounds are hosting a session where self-managed musicians can share their experiences and tips with those who are also looking to balance their creative hustle and manage themselves.

When? Thursday 19th November 2020. 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM GMT

 

4. Art & Wellbeing at Work: How can art improve mental health when working from home?

This two-part webinar series will explore the ways in which art can help manage our mental health, with a panel of guest speakers from art therapists to CEOs.

When? Tuesday 24th November 2020. 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM GMT

 

5. Roundhouse Self-Made Series: A networking event for creative freelancers and entrepreneurs

With in-person networking events on hold for the time being, Roundhouse music venue and organisation have curated an online networking event as part of their self-made series. Their aim is to equip freelancers and entrepreneurs aged between 18-30 who work in the creative industries with the tools to elevate their careers with like-minded individuals.

When? Thursday 19th November 2020. 6:15 PM – 8:15 PM GMT

 

6. Playwriting with Inua Ellams

Join award-winning playwright and poet, Inua Ellams for a 90-minute workshop where he’ll share his approach to telling stories on stage. For writers and lovers of theatre, this session will be filled with interactive exercises that will equip you with the skills that will sharpen your writer’s toolkit and curate your own play.

When? Tuesday 17th November 2020. 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM GMT