Open Fund FAQs for writers: Describing the work and supplying samples
We assess your application to the Open Fund against criteria including the strength of your creative or artistic idea. The following advice is designed to help you make sure you give us the information we need to show that your project fits the criteria.
Describe the work
This seems obvious but we need to know about the work itself. Please tell us as much as you can — a description, a synopsis, notes on structure, chapter headings if you have these. Detail matters — high level descriptions of the style/genre and themes evidence what you want to do creatively but not how you will do it.
Should I send samples?
Samples of your writing are important to evidence the strength of your creative practice. Your application stands the best chance of success when accompanied by appropriate samples.
If I am applying for time to write, can I send a sample of the work itself? The guidelines to the fund say the project or activity must not have begun at the time of application.
In a literature context, we understand that books don’t generally begin from a standing start. Most writers will have undertaken some exploratory writing before deciding to embark on a full work, not least for the purpose of submitting to publishers and agents. If you have chapter samples, please do include these. If not, please ensure you submit samples of relevant writing to demonstrate the strength of your work.
I am extensively published and won [insert major prize here]. Do I still need to submit samples?
Yes, please. We are committed to equalities, diversity and inclusion at Creative Scotland and are conscious of structural barriers that promote and protect access to opportunity for some groups over others. We strive to treat all applicants fairly. Do tell us about your publication record, prizes etc but please proceed as any applicant would, i.e. supplying samples.
Do these notes answer your queries about describing your work and evidencing its strength? If you have other queries, please do let us know in the comments or contact us direct.
