News Archive - Jukebox Collective

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callout for artists or creative practitioners and mentors to deliver workshops for our academy programme in cardiff

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We are looking for creative practitioners or artists to deliver workshops for our Academy programme in the areas of dance, acting, music or other art disciplines.

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Jukebox Academy is our artistic development programme for teens in Cardiff to develop their creative skills. Offering multidisciplinary classes in music, dance, drama and visual arts. Plus, mentoring and industry insight sessions to allow students to explore their creativity and passion.

Read more here

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Requirements:

Must be 18+ years old

Teaching experience (preferred but not essential)

Wales-based and/or able to commute regularly to Cardiff

Welsh speakers encouraged

Global majority ethnic backgrounds encouraged

This is a paid opportunity. With fees negotiable, based on experience.

If you’d like to work with us, please send us an expression of interest + examples of work or portfolio.

Make sure to tell us about yourself, your artistic practice, why you’re interested in this opportunity.

Email: Elina@jukeboxcollective.com

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Presenting our short film Of Us, showcasing at Beyond the Bassline exhibition at the British Library

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Announcing our involvement in the Beyond the Bassline exhibition at the British Library in London. As the Welsh partner, our film Of Us, shares an untold perspective into the exploration of 500 years of Black music in Britain.

Beyond the Bassline (April 26 – August 26, 2024) marks a historic moment as the first major exhibition to document the rich musical journey of African and Caribbean people in Britain. Through a display of sound archives, artefacts, performances, and multimedia presentations, the exhibition explores the people, spaces and genres that have transformed the landscape of British music, delving into the impact of Black British musicians, creatives and entrepreneurs on popular music since the 16th-century.

Presented in the exhibitions “interruption” spaces is Of Us (2024), a Jukebox Collective production, commissioned by the British Library. Directed and choreographed by Liara Barussi and filmed in South Wales, the film pays homage to the heritage of one of the UK’s oldest Black communities, based in Tiger Bay in Cardiff. Through dance and movement, it reflects on themes of migration, identity and the enduring ancestral connection between body and memory.

“Of Us journeys into the whispers of our seas, intertwining stories of migration with the universal symbolism of water. Echoing concepts of the Black Aquatic and Tidalectics, the film juxtaposes the fluid and fixed.” Says Liara Barussi (Artistic Director and Jukebox Collective Founder)

The short film will be showcased in the ocean space offering visitors an immersive visual and auditory experience. With a soundscape by South London-based curatorial platform Touching Bass and styling by Lauren Anne Groves with pieces from Black-owned brands including Ahluwalia and Jawara Alleyne. Featuring a cast of young Black Welsh talent from the organisation’s artist development programme.

“We’re honoured to represent Wales in this historic exhibition, the film pays tribute to the often overlooked and underrepresented Black communities of Wales. Highlighting their heritage and culture, as it intersects with the wider narrative of Black British music” – Liara Barussi.

Curated by Dr Aleema Gray in collaboration with Dr. Mykaell Riley, Beyond the Bassline promises to broaden audience’s understanding of Black British music and its position within British musical heritage.

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About the Exhibition

For further information on the exhibition please visit their official website here

Tickets are available to purchase online with Pay What You Can days on the first Wednesday of every month.

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Film Credits

Director & Movement Director: Liara Barussi
Producer: Lauren Patterson
DOP: Nathan O’Kelly
Sound Design: Touching Bass
Stylist: Lauren Anne Groves
Creative Consultant: Leyman Lahcine
Lead Cast: Gui Pinto, Venice Williams, Monet Williams
Cast: Jukebox Academy – Teaghan Scanlon, Karim Mohamed, Fatima Jarju, Ayoola Wonder, Elizabeth Oredola, Perez Rodriques, Rio Rodriques, Quincy Chambers, Akeylah Hinton, Blessing Oredola, Sheighley-Sky
Movement Assistants: Darnell Williams, Naomi Ferne, Patrik Gabco, Millie Campion
Hair Stylist: Trent Jackson
Barber: Isaac Omoyibo
Editor: Pawel Achtelik
Colourist: Sharon Chung
Graphic Design: Henny Valentino

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For more information, high-res images or an interview, please contact

Lauren Patterson
Strategic Director, Jukebox Collective

Samandal Sidig
Marketing Coordinator, Jukebox Collective

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Sharing our climate action approach. Read on to find out how we incorporate social justice, nature, community and education into our strategy.

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JUSTICE

Climate Justice is a reshaping of climate action that addresses human rights and inequality. Intersected with social and racial justice, we recognise the crisis as a political and environmental one, and believe collective action leads to systemic change.

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NATURE

We’re blessed to be surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of South Wales. We’ve taken our network of artists on wellness retreats incorporating carbon-neutral travel and exploration of rural environments.

We also incorporate learnings from African and Caribbean communities and their ancestral practices, inspiring new approaches to engage with nature in Wales.

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COMMUNITY

By supporting and partnering with local businesses we contribute towards the growth of communities while keeping our environmental impact small.

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FUTURE GENERATIONS

Our Academy programme integrates sustainability with workshops on upcycling, thrifting, fashion, and environmental awareness. Empowering youth to think differently within their creative process.

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STRATEGY

We shape climate justice strategies alongside national organisations such as ACW bringing in insights from local communities through initiatives such as climate clubs.

As we work collectively towards a net-zero arts sector in Wales by 2050, we’re collaborating on new practices that centre local communities and share resources with the next generation of creative changemakers.

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Explore your creativity this spring term break with two exciting dance workshops in Cardiff from Jukebox Collective, featuring some of our fave tutors, Plamedi and Reuel

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CHOREO with Reuel

Choreographer and music artist. Reuel’s been featured on Sky 1’s Got to Dance, BBC’s Children in Need, and has recently opened for Neo on the Cardiff leg of his world tour. Specialised in hip-hop and dancehall, he’s one of fave dance tutors in Cardiff. For this spring break he’s set to deliver a commercial choreography workshop

Join us on 27th March @ Butetown Community Center

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AFRO with Plamedi

Plamedi is an Afro dance teacher, and founder of AfroJam Cardiff, Wales’s first afro dance specialised dance programme, delivering weekly dance classes and special workshops to teens and adults. For this spring break, students are in for an exciting workshop of all the latest Afro dance moves and rhythms

Join us on 3rd April @ Butetown Community Center

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jukebox academy students took part in a fashion workshop and editorial shoot with Cardiff-based creative studio ffasiwn stiwdio

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Ffasiwn Stiwdio have been hosting workshops with Jukebox Academy students to reimagine the Welsh costume in a modern way, finishing with a photoshoot to showcase their final looks.

The workshops have allowed the students to be a part of the image-making process, and introduced them to new creative skills from creating a moodboard to styling and customisation, all while exploring Welsh cultural emblems and identity.

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Ffaswin Stiwdio is a photography-based creative studio combining youth work, creative workshops and documentary photography, led by French photographer, Clementine Schneidermann and Welsh creative director, Charlotte James.

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Jukebox Academy is an artistic development programme for teens to develop their creative skills. Offering multidisciplinary classes in music, dance, drama and visual arts. Plus, mentoring and industry insight sessions to allow students to explore their creativity and passion.

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Jukebox academy students attended art direction workshop with creative director Charlotte James

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Jukebox academy students loved Charlotte’s art direction workshop, where they created DIY collages using editorial and family photos.

During the workshop, the students explored creative direction, layout, drawing and collage skills. Taking inspiration from personal memories and the editorial photography they’ve created in previous workshops with Bleak Fabulous. Their artworks will be compiled into a zine, sharing their creative journey across art direction, styling and design.

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Jukebox Academy is our artist development programme for teens to grow their creative skills. Offering multidisciplinary classes in music, dance, drama, visual arts and more.

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Bleak Fabulous is a photography-based creative studio combining youth work, creative workshops and documentary photography, led by French photographer, Clementine Schneidermann and Welsh creative director, Charlotte James.

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This months round-up of creative opportunities for Welsh creatives. Including funding, grants, apprenticeships and more.

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POWER UP

Open to mid level Black music creators and professionals
Deadline: 14 March

Find out more here

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BLACK ARTISTS GRANT

Offering no strings attached support for Black British artist
Deadline: Rolling monthly

Read more here

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INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND

Open to individuals and organisations looking to foster artist relationships with international partners Deadline: Rolling monthly

Read more here

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COACHING PROGRAMME FOR WOMEN IN THE ARTS

Open to women working or wanting to work in the creative industry

Deadline: 28 March

Read more here

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THE SHAPE OF THINGS TO COME

Callout for 6 artists to put on performances at Volacano Theatre, Swansea.

Deadline: 29 March

Read more here

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IRIS PRIZE

Worlds lagest short film prize for developing LGBTQ+ short films

Deadline: 31 March

Read more here

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CRIW

Apprenticeship programme for young people looking to break into the film and TV industry in Wales

Deadline: 8 April

Read more here

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GRAND PLAN

This grant supports people of color to start new creative projects

Deadline: Mid May (date TBA)

Read more here

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BLACK BRITISH WOMAN CINEMATOGRAPHER SCHOLARSHIP

Offering a fully-funded scholarship for an MA Cinematography degree at National Film and Television School. Open to Black British women.

Deadline: 8 May

Read more here

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CULTURE MOVES EUROPE: INDIVIDUAL MOBILITY ACTION

Open to British artists to carry out arts project with a partner in another Creative Europe country

Deadline: 31 May

Read more here

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Send us an email at Hello@jukeboxcollective.com if you need any help with an application.

Found this round-up helpful? Subscribe to our newsletter to get the monthly round-up of opportunities delivered straight to your inbox

Signup here

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Exploring streetwear culture in Ghana

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In the landscape of African fashion, Ghana stands out as a hub of creativity and innovation. Much like Nigeria’s Street Souk – the largest streetwear convention on the continent, Ghana’s streetwear scene is gaining the attention of fashion enthusiasts globally. Spearheaded by a new generation of designers, it’s a testament to the power of youth culture and creative expression.

Inspired by the DIY ethos of hip-hop culture, underground music and the skateboarding and surf scene. Ghanaian streetwear blends Western influences with local styles to communicate the lived realities of its youth. From vibrant prints to intricate detailing, it celebrates the country’s rich cultural heritage while embracing contemporary design aesthetics.

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At the forefront are homegrown brands that embody the spirit of innovation and self-expression. From Free The Youth’s commitment to social activism, to Subwae’s architecture-inspired designs. Each brand offers a unique perspective on Ghanaian identity.

As this scene continues to grow and develop, here are six brands to watch:

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Free the youth

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Free The Youth is a collective of young creatives determined to empower Ghanaian and African youth to connect with art scenes worldwide through street-style fashion and culture. Founded as a social media-based street-style blog, it has now evolved into a multi-branched collective featuring a fashion brand, creative agency and NGO. Their apparel is known for its bold designs and thought-provoking messaging centred around liberation and social change. Over the past few years, the brand has seen a number of successful collaborations with brands such as Daily Paper, Nike and features in Vogue and GQ.

Watch our interview brand co-founder Joey Lit

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Subwae

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Blurring the lines between art and fashion, Subwae is a sustainable concept brand founded by Christopher Akpo in 2018. Drawing inspiration from architecture, art and Ghanaian landscape, the brand describes its aesthetic as continuously evolving visual social commentary. With sustainability at the heart of their ethos, the brand prioritises using sustainable materials and working collaboratively with local artisans in Accra.

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Palmwine Icecream

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Founded by British-Ghanaian creative director, Kusi Kubi, this brand bridges London’s fashion scene and the vibrant markets of Accra. Each piece begins by Kusi Kubi and his team scouring Kantamanto Market (the largest second-hand clothing market in West Africa) to source clothes and materials, which are then reimagined into unique, genderless pieces that sit at the intersection of everyday comfort and grandeur. Gold and leather are central themes in all the designs, honouring Kubi’s Ashanti heritage. From bold graphic tees to intricately embroidered jackets, Palmwine Icecream celebrates the diversity and richness of Ghanaian heritage.

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Complex Department

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Complex Department is a high-end streetwear label that is entirely sourced and produced in Ghana. It draws inspiration from the emerging youth culture, contemporary art, and craftsmanship. The brand’s collections showcase vibrant colors, cultural monograms, and bold graphics in relaxed, oversized, and tailored statement pieces. Additionally, the brand has recently launched the Complex Academy program, which is aimed at developing the entrepreneurial skills of young Ghanaian creatives navigating the creative industry.

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Common FTR

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Common FTR is a rapidly emerging streetwear brand based in Accra. The brand’s founder and creative director, Omimi Okere, emphasises that Common FTR embodies the essence of youth culture, which is defined by an unapologetic pursuit of dreams, boundless energy, and an unwavering desire to make a difference. The brand’s latest collection is inspired by the bustling streets of modern African cities and the fearless young people that inhabit them.

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Studio.kojokusi

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Founded by visual artist Kojo Kusi, StudioKojiKusi sits at the intersection of graphic art and fashion. Its designs often feature structured tailoring, bright colours, printing techniques, and intricate patchwork. With a commitment to unfiltered personal expression, this brand is gaining worldwide attention with recent features in Vogue, Nataal, and GUAP.

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As the streetwear scene in Africa continues to develop and capture a global audience, one country that stands out is Ghana. Its young and talented fashion designers are redefining the boundaries of fashion, reclaiming their cultural identity and are fearless in the pursuit of their dreams.

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Connecting over 100 Welsh creatives across fashion, music and art at the future creatives link-up

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On October 26, we hosted the Future Creatives Link-up, connecting over 100 Welsh creatives across the emerging intersection of fashion, music and art. The event, which took place at Rhostio Cafe in Cardiff, brought together Welsh creatives for a chance to network and connect. Hosted by Liara Barusi and Cherrelle (Coco) Tucker, with sounds from DJ Dan Willow, and guest performances from music group Source. Guests were served bespoke cocktails created in collaboration with Rhostio, as well as appetisers from The Real Ting.

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The event brought together creatives across various fields and industries from South Wales, Bangor and London. Allowing for inter-industry connection and community building. Music industry creatives included Sage Todz, DFlexxx, DJ Willis, singers Aisha Kigs, MissFaithee, and KingKhan, as well as rappers Mirari and Andrew Ogun. Fashion creatives such as brand founder Ibby Abdi, textile-designer Ophelia Dos Santos, designer Miguel Brito and hair stylist Bronwyn De Kock were also present.

The evening also hosted a number of visual artists and creators, such as Onismo Muhlanga, emerging illustrator Amarie, and graphics designer Ibby Tarafdar. Photographers Zaid Djerdi, Amber Ford, Sally Nguyen and Taiye Omokore. Many dancers were also present and could be seen leading the dance floor, these included Reuel Elijah, Patrick Gabco, Plamedi Santima-Akiso and David Udemezue.

Additionally, the event hosted a few representatives of the creative industry in Wales. Namely, Loren Henry, co-founder of our partner organisation Urban Circle. Toni Andrews founder of Lab7, representatives from Radar Magazine, and Devinda De Silva of Arts Council Wales.

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With the link-up we sought to deliver a creative industry-level event for the future creatives network that excites, inspires and creates a space for growth and connection. Utilising the event as an opportunity to introduce the Future Creatives event taking place in 2024 in St Fagans Museum, and to open channels for creatives to reach out for collaboration and partnership.

We encouraged creatives to connect with others beyond their immediate circles and industries. A networking session was facilitated by Liara Barussi and Cherrelle (Coco) Tucker, inviting creatives to join groups and answer postcards with questions they would like to ask each other.

The event also featured sounds from DJ Dan Willows, bringing a selection of hip-hop, RnB, Afrobeats and rap. As well as a guest performance from emerging local band, Source, composed of singers Adjua, Lily Webbe and Bruna Garcia. Fresh from their recent performance at Llais Festival 2023 x BBC Horizons, they delivered a soulful and captivating performance.

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Guests were served with arrival cocktails, designed for the event in collaboration with Rhostio, inspired by Cardiff, the Caribbean and West Africa. As well as authentic appetisers from Jamaican local street food pop-up, The Real Ting.

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The link-up wouldn’t have come together without our sponsors Arts Council Wales and Vans. As well as all the creatives and local businesses that helped us put it all together. These included Naomi Ferne, Pierre Gashagaza, Joe Andrews and Tom Swindell for documentation. And our incredible team members, Liara Barusi, Lauren Patterson, Darnell Williams, Samandal Sidig, Tarina Tajul, Kairese Hawkins, Akeylah Hinton, Teaghan Scanlon and Karim.

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This event was delivered as a part of our Future Creatives project. The project began in 2021 through a community investigation into the experiences of young black and minority creatives’ in Wales, and has since grown into a highly collaborative and supportive network. The project highlighted a need for more inclusion of creatives in decision-making, community-led initiatives, and tangible long-term support for artists. In response, we have made a commitment towards curating events, and opportunities for this network in 2023. And launching a major event in collaboration with St Fagans museum in 2024.

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Are you a creator based in Wales? Join our mailing list to hear about our upcoming opportunities and receive a monthly round-up of paid jobs and commissions available for Welsh creatives.