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#MeetTheResident: Designer & Scupltor Gareth McCullagh

Published: May 12, 2020

Can you tell us a bit about what you do?

I design and sculpt miniature figures by hand. I mostly do subjects from history, though occasionally some fantasy or sci-fi subjects too.

 

What is your background in?

I trained in law and was a practising barrister for around six years. I was deeply unhappy in the profession, and came to realise I was not suited to it; I had chosen the wrong path. Leaving was both the hardest and best decision I’ve ever made.

 

Why did you want to start your own business?

Leaving the Bar was akin to jumping out of a burning aeroplane, but without  a parachute; I was at a loss for what to do next. To tide myself over I turned my hobby of collecting and painting figures into a small business. This was meant to be temporary, but once I started sculpting the figures I just gravitated towards that. I had read a magazine article about a miniatures company that suggested that if you were a skilled painter you could probably sculpt too. So I tried and got the hang of it quickly. To some extent its all an accident, but its an illusion to try to plan everything.

 

What do you love most about working for yourself?

I like working with people rather than for people, if that makes sense? I’ve never been employed, only ever self-employed and I think I am too used to that now to change. Of course I am always working on commissions, but the clients generally  set the task and you decide how to execute it. I enjoy collaborating but I doubt I’d thrive with someone looking over my shoulder all the time. Its nice to set your own hours and so on, but you have to be responsible to yourself, so there’s not really any room for slacking off. I think it depends on your personality, some people like fitting into a pre-existing structure and some like setting the structure. Its only problematic if you end up in the one you don’t fit into well.

 

What was the biggest hurdle for you starting out and how did you overcome it?

Getting clients, I suppose.  I thought it would be learning the craft, because I had to teach myself how. It was a matter of getting the tools and materials and trying, because there was no one teaching it,  but I took to it quickly. Now its easier with the explosion of on-line resources, though its still a pretty niche skill.

To get clients I had to contact companies and volunteer some free figures for them on a no-obligation basis. This worked quite well, and I still work for some of those initial contacts, but there were some missteps too. I answered a call for sculptors for some board game figures, which later turned out to be for a Conan the Barbarian game. I didn’t realise it was way  beyond my skill level and I submitted a test sculpt. I thought it was quite good, but looking back it may have been only the 5th or 6th  figure I had sculpted. I got a very polite email turning me down, with some useful pointers as to how to improve, but I was mortified.

I keep little Conan figure sitting on my computer to remind me just how unskilled I was then, and that I should keep trying to improve.

 

What projects are you currently working on?

Currently on the desk are lots of 17th Century Cossack and Tatar cavalry, who  fought over Crimea and Ukraine, which I suppose still echoes in the present day unfortunately. I am just about to start working on Safavid Persians from the same period. Part of what I like about doing historical subjects is that I get to research periods and cultures that I otherwise would know nothing about.

 

How do you stay creative/inspired?

Mostly great art, whether its sculpture or illustrative. Some people get inspired by movies, but I find films frustrating because they usually get the details wrong, though I’ll admit they can be good for setting the mood. For me, seeing inspiring illustration is much better, especially if the artist manages to tell a good story in the piece. I wish I was given more concept art by clients, but usually I just have to hunt down the historical references myself.

Seeing great work from other sculptors is also inspiring, and can give you something to try to out-do.

If I am working on a particular subject I try to find music that evokes the time or culture, that helps me get into the head-space for imagining what I want sculpt, plus you end up finding unusual music you’d otherwise never had heard.

 

Who is your design hero?

In terms of sculpting, probably Tom Meier, who is preternaturally talented, so much so that while I admire him I don’t really attempt to emulate him. His work is so fine that it often suffers if not painted by someone as skilled as he is. Alan and Michael Perry are the sculptors I try to learn from, their work is the best balance of detail and practicality; something about their work just strikes the right balance. Sculpting is as much about deciding which details to leave out as it is which to include.

Illustration-wise, I think it would have to be Angus McBride or Nikolai Zubkov. They have similar styles that just jump off the page, and there’s a clarity to their work that makes them the sculptor’s best friend.

 

What piece of software/ tool/ equipment would you struggle to run your business without?

Practically it would be the colour-shaper, which is a sort of paintbrush with a rubber head instead of bristles. Without it I wouldn’t be able to get the sculpting resin to obey me, getting my first one was the difference between me succeeding and giving up in frustration.

Software-wise I think zBrush will become indispensable. I am currently learning it and will probably end up using it exclusively. Computer design and 3D printing are definitely the future in my industry, in fact they are a large part of the present.  Some people regret the fact that handmade figures are gradually disappearing, but I see it as applying the same skill with a different set of tools, and there’s room for both.

What are you plans/hopes/ambitions for the future?

3D printing is the area I am putting lots of effort into currently, and I am also slowly teaching myself illustration, which is significantly harder. In terms of projects, I am quite excited about working on my own 16th  century Ming Dynasty range, which will probably be a Kickstarter project. I have been collaborating with a Chinese-American friend and we’ve done a lot of research, which is to say he’s done the lion’s share of the work as he can read classical Chinese and I can’t. Once the figures are done I think we should consider publishing a book, because there is almost nothing available in English on the subject. Its quite a niche area, but I’d love to make what we’ve collated available.

 

Finally, your top tip for other creatives starting their own business?

I am always hesitant about giving advice because I rarely listened to it myself- to my cost. We’re all told not to put our hands on a hot stove, but most of us only learn the lesson after we’ve put our hand on the stove.

I guess if I had to give advice it might be to love what you do, but I’d assume that if you are starting your own business you’ve made it over that hurdle already. But you do have to continue that passion because you are going to encounter problems no matter what, and they are easier to face if you believe in what you are doing.  If that sounds too much like a start-up cliché, then advice that’s a bit more hard-nosed would be to make sure you value your time properly, because if you don’t your clients won’t either.

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Another chance to read our interview with BBC Radio Producer Owen McFadden ahead of his Creative Audio Workshop in our Hill St studios tomorrow morning

You can still grab a ticket to his workshop via the link below or in our profile

https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Oct 24

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Another chance to read our interview with BBC Radio Producer Owen McFadden ahead of his Creative Audio Workshop in our Hill St studios tomorrow morning

You can still grab a ticket to his workshop via the link below or in our profile

https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Our latest roundup of local and international funding, support & opportunities for NI creatives

01. Individual Artists Digital Evolution Awards

Programme Objectives
Upskilling NI artists in the use of new, emerging and immersive technology
Creation of excellent Digital Art

Programme Priorities
Creation of digital arts
Creating opportunities for audiences to experience digital and immersive arts
Encouraging cross-sectoral collaboration

Closing date: Thursday 27th November, 12:00PM

02. Digital Arts Studios Home Residency

The DAS Home Residency provides four months for you to develop a project of your choice, expanding your skills and practice.

Open to artists across Ireland and the UK, we welcome proposals from artists whose work employs digital technologies to challenge artistic boundaries and reimagine the cultural landscape.

Closing date: Sunday 16th November, Midnight

03. Imagine! Festival of Ideas and Politics – Call for Events

The Imagine! Belfast Festival returns during 23–29 March 2026 and they are once again inviting you to send them ideas for an event as part of the festival.

Closing date: Friday 7th November

04. Vault Christmas Market Call For Stallholders

This year’s Christmas Market is taking place on the first weekend of December (Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th) in Carlisle Memorial Church.

Closing date: Monday 27th of October

05. Belfast City Council Social Economy Incentive Fund

Apply now if you have a new or early stage social economy or co-operative business and want support to grow your venture further. The
fund can provide between £1,000 and £10,000 to help with things like equipment, skills development, set-up costs and specialist support.

Closing date: Tuesday 11th November 2025, 4pm

06. Craft NI Call For Facilitators

Craft NI is seeking expressions of interest from practitioners or facilitators who can deliver professional development sessions for craft
makers across Northern Ireland.

Closing date: Sunday 2nd November

Full listings including links on our blog (link below and in profile)

https://blickstudios.org/blog/13044/

Oct 24

Open post by blickstudios with ID 18207364534312742
Our latest roundup of local and international funding, support & opportunities for NI creatives

01. Individual Artists Digital Evolution Awards

Programme Objectives
Upskilling NI artists in the use of new, emerging and immersive technology
Creation of excellent Digital Art

Programme Priorities
Creation of digital arts
Creating opportunities for audiences to experience digital and immersive arts
Encouraging cross-sectoral collaboration

Closing date: Thursday 27th November, 12:00PM

02. Digital Arts Studios Home Residency

The DAS Home Residency provides four months for you to develop a project of your choice, expanding your skills and practice.

Open to artists across Ireland and the UK, we welcome proposals from artists whose work employs digital technologies to challenge artistic boundaries and reimagine the cultural landscape.

Closing date: Sunday 16th November, Midnight

03. Imagine! Festival of Ideas and Politics – Call for Events

The Imagine! Belfast Festival returns during 23–29 March 2026 and they are once again inviting you to send them ideas for an event as part of the festival.

Closing date: Friday 7th November

04. Vault Christmas Market Call For Stallholders

This year’s Christmas Market is taking place on the first weekend of December (Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th) in Carlisle Memorial Church.

Closing date: Monday 27th of October

05. Belfast City Council Social Economy Incentive Fund

Apply now if you have a new or early stage social economy or co-operative business and want support to grow your venture further. The
fund can provide between £1,000 and £10,000 to help with things like equipment, skills development, set-up costs and specialist support.

Closing date: Tuesday 11th November 2025, 4pm

06. Craft NI Call For Facilitators

Craft NI is seeking expressions of interest from practitioners or facilitators who can deliver professional development sessions for craft
makers across Northern Ireland.

Closing date: Sunday 2nd November

Full listings including links on our blog (link below and in profile)

https://blickstudios.org/blog/13044/

Some pics from a fab workshop hosted by @homewerk.project for us earlier this year on Adventures in ChatGPT.

This Saturday morning they are back with us hosting a ‘Creative Audio Workshop’ with radio and audio producer Owen McFadden from WhyFi Productions, who’ll draw on his experience of creating award-winning audio for BBC Radio Ulster, Radio 4 and more, to give insights into the basics of recording, editing, and shaping audio into compelling listening.

Whether you’re curious about podcasting, oral history, or creative soundscapes, this session will give you time and inspiration to think about the potential and power of audio.

WORKSHOP DETAILS

Event Date(s): Saturday 25th October

Event Time: 10.00 am - 12.15pm

Location: Blick Shared Studios, 46 Hill Street, Belfast, BT1 2LB

Cost: £15.00

More info & booking: https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Oct 23

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Some pics from a fab workshop hosted by @homewerk.project for us earlier this year on Adventures in ChatGPT.

This Saturday morning they are back with us hosting a ‘Creative Audio Workshop’ with radio and audio producer Owen McFadden from WhyFi Productions, who’ll draw on his experience of creating award-winning audio for BBC Radio Ulster, Radio 4 and more, to give insights into the basics of recording, editing, and shaping audio into compelling listening.

Whether you’re curious about podcasting, oral history, or creative soundscapes, this session will give you time and inspiration to think about the potential and power of audio.

WORKSHOP DETAILS

Event Date(s): Saturday 25th October

Event Time: 10.00 am - 12.15pm

Location: Blick Shared Studios, 46 Hill Street, Belfast, BT1 2LB

Cost: £15.00

More info & booking: https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

A workshop I definitely want to sit in on! Audio content is such a powerful way to tell stories. Hoping to find new ways we can bring it into our projects at Blick. We’ve already seen the impact through past projects Small Town Big Dreams and Our Time is Now (https://blickstudios.org/our-time-is-now/

** DIGITAL BRUNCH WORKSHOP: CREATIVE AUDIO FOR BEGINNERS **

This Saturday morning in our Hill St studios as part of @homewerk.project, talented BBC radio producer Owen McFadden of @whyfiproductions will be sharing some of his secrets for audio creativity in this creative audio for beginners workshop.

Fresh from winning gold at the 2025 British Podcast Awards for a history podcast documentary on the Brighton Bomb, Owen is also the producer of The Ticket, BBC Radio Ulster`s most essential arts show.

Whether you’re curious about podcasting, oral history, or creative soundscapes, this session will give you time and inspiration to think about the potential and power of audio.

WORKSHOP DETAILS

Date: Saturday 25th October
Time: 10.00am – 12.15pm
Location: Blick Studios, Hill Street, Belfast
Cost: £15.00

(price includes light refreshments)

Booking link below and in profile

https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Oct 22

Open post by blickstudios with ID 18057058154633388
A workshop I definitely want to sit in on! Audio content is such a powerful way to tell stories. Hoping to find new ways we can bring it into our projects at Blick. We’ve already seen the impact through past projects Small Town Big Dreams and Our Time is Now (https://blickstudios.org/our-time-is-now/

** DIGITAL BRUNCH WORKSHOP: CREATIVE AUDIO FOR BEGINNERS **

This Saturday morning in our Hill St studios as part of @homewerk.project, talented BBC radio producer Owen McFadden of @whyfiproductions will be sharing some of his secrets for audio creativity in this creative audio for beginners workshop.

Fresh from winning gold at the 2025 British Podcast Awards for a history podcast documentary on the Brighton Bomb, Owen is also the producer of The Ticket, BBC Radio Ulster's most essential arts show.

Whether you’re curious about podcasting, oral history, or creative soundscapes, this session will give you time and inspiration to think about the potential and power of audio.

WORKSHOP DETAILS

Date: Saturday 25th October
Time: 10.00am – 12.15pm
Location: Blick Studios, Hill Street, Belfast
Cost: £15.00

(price includes light refreshments)

Booking link below and in profile

https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Some pics from our last creative talk with Ciaran Crudden founder of @lastbrand.studio sharing his creative story!

Oct 22

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Some pics from our last creative talk with Ciaran Crudden founder of @lastbrand.studio sharing his creative story!

Some photos from our Retail Ready Fieldtrip for Ulster University Enterprise Placement Year students that we led on Friday 10th October. Starting in our Hill Street studios before visiting @wearebornandbred_ @hunterpaperco and @storyboxni

With the students all learning about how to get their creative products ready for retail with Linzi Rooney founder of Born and Bred, Emma Johnston founder of Hunter Paper Co and Rachel McIlgorm founder of Story Box NI all sharing their stories, thoughts and experiences.

Such a great day with loads of brilliant insights and tips that we will share in a blog in coming weeks!

Thanks to Linzi Rooney, Emma Johnston and Rachel McIlgorm for very kindly giving up their time to meet with the students and share their experiences and thanks to Jackie Smyth from Ulster University for inviting us to be part of their programme we loved it!

Oct 21

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Some photos from our Retail Ready Fieldtrip for Ulster University Enterprise Placement Year students that we led on Friday 10th October. Starting in our Hill Street studios before visiting @wearebornandbred_  @hunterpaperco and @storyboxni

With the students all learning about how to get their creative products ready for retail with Linzi Rooney founder of Born and Bred, Emma Johnston founder of Hunter Paper Co and Rachel McIlgorm founder of Story Box NI all sharing their stories, thoughts and experiences.

Such a great day with loads of brilliant insights and tips that we will share in a blog in coming weeks!

Thanks to Linzi Rooney, Emma Johnston and Rachel McIlgorm for very kindly giving up their time to meet with the students and share their experiences and thanks to Jackie Smyth  from Ulster University for inviting us to be part of their programme we loved it!

Some pics from our `Creative Brunch With Innovate UK Business Growth` earlier this month, event writeup and resources coming soon!

Oct 20

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Some pics from our 'Creative Brunch With Innovate UK Business Growth' earlier this month, event writeup and resources coming soon!

* * Next Weekend - Digital Brunch: Creative Audio for Beginners * *

Are you curious about how to bring stories to life through sound? In this session we’ll be joined by radio and audio producer Owen McFadden from WhyFi Productions, who’ll draw on his experience of creating award-winning audio for BBC Radio Ulster, Radio 4 and more, to give insights into the basics of recording, editing, and shaping audio into compelling listening. Whether you’re curious about podcasting, oral history, or creative soundscapes, this session will give you time and inspiration to think about the potential and power of audio.

Workshop details
Date: Saturday 25th October
Time: 10.00am – 12.15pm
Location: Blick Studios, Hill Street, Belfast
Cost: £15.00

For more information or to book your place visit the events page of our website (link below and in profile)

https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Oct 19

Open post by blickstudios with ID 17924148549151062
* * Next Weekend - Digital Brunch: Creative Audio for Beginners * * 

Are you curious about how to bring stories to life through sound? In this session we’ll be joined by radio and audio producer Owen McFadden from WhyFi Productions, who’ll draw on his experience of creating award-winning audio for BBC Radio Ulster, Radio 4 and more, to give insights into the basics of recording, editing, and shaping audio into compelling listening. Whether you’re curious about podcasting, oral history, or creative soundscapes, this session will give you time and inspiration to think about the potential and power of audio.

Workshop details
Date: Saturday 25th October
Time: 10.00am – 12.15pm
Location: Blick Studios, Hill Street, Belfast
Cost: £15.00

For more information or to book your place visit the events page of our website (link below and in profile)

https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Some more weekend reading. This time an interview with radio and audio producer Owen McFadden from WhyFi Productions (Radio 2, Radio 4, Radio Ulster and more) who is facilitating our `Digital Brunch Creative Audio for Beginners Workshop` next Saturday morning

https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Oct 18

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Some more weekend reading. This time an interview with radio and audio producer Owen McFadden from WhyFi Productions (Radio 2, Radio 4, Radio Ulster and more) who is facilitating our 'Digital Brunch Creative Audio for Beginners Workshop' next Saturday morning

https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Hard to believe it has been a year since our trip to Hong Kong to create the Design Your Life interactive design installation with Belfast Design Week as part of the British Council Hong Kong Spark Festival. Sadly no international travel this year, but lots of great projects coming up including more @belfastdesignwk projects as part of @irish_designweek in November. We will be sharing more details on these over the next few weeks!

Oct 17

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Hard to believe it has been a year since our trip to Hong Kong to create the Design Your Life interactive design installation with Belfast Design Week as part of the British Council Hong Kong Spark Festival. Sadly no international travel this year, but lots of great projects coming up including more @belfastdesignwk projects as part of @irish_designweek in November. We will be sharing more details on these over the next few weeks!

Some weekend reading! An interview we did with our friends Graeme and Katya founders of @homewerk.project back in the spring who are now working with us on a new series of Saturday morning workshops for creatives!

The next workshop is on creating Audio Content which is next Saturday 25th October at 10am with radio and audio producer Owen McFadden from WhyFi Productions, who’ll draw on his experience of creating award-winning audio for BBC Radio Ulster, Radio 4 and more, to give insights into the basics of recording, editing, and shaping audio into compelling listening.

https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Oct 17

Open post by blickstudios with ID 18045559697401294
Some weekend reading! An interview we did with our friends Graeme and Katya founders of @homewerk.project back in the spring who are now working with us on a new series of Saturday morning workshops for creatives!

The next workshop is on creating Audio Content which is next Saturday 25th October at 10am with radio and audio producer Owen McFadden from WhyFi Productions, who’ll draw on his experience of creating award-winning audio for BBC Radio Ulster, Radio 4 and more, to give insights into the basics of recording, editing, and shaping audio into compelling listening.

https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Last chance to book for tonight`s creative talk by Ciaran Crudden founder and creative director of The Last Brand creative agency

CREATIVE TALK DETAILS
Date: Wed 15th October
Time: 7pm - 8pm
Venue: Blick Hill St
Cost: Free

More info & booking (link below and in profile)

https://blickstudios.org/events/blick-creative-talk-ciaran-crudden-creative-director-of-the-last-brand/

Oct 15

Open post by blickstudios with ID 18075341174160752
Last chance to book for tonight's creative talk by Ciaran Crudden founder and creative director of The Last Brand creative agency

CREATIVE TALK DETAILS
Date: Wed 15th October
Time: 7pm - 8pm
Venue: Blick Hill St
Cost: Free

More info & booking (link below and in profile)

https://blickstudios.org/events/blick-creative-talk-ciaran-crudden-creative-director-of-the-last-brand/

Tonight Ciaran Crudden founder and creative director of The Last Brand is sharing his creative story with us at our creative talk. 

Ahead of his talk we have done a short interview with Ciaran which we have been sharing in bits over the last week or so. Here`s the full interview and you can also find it on the blog on our website!

We still have a couple of free tickets left for tonight which you can also sign up for on our website if you would like to join us!

https://blickstudios.org/events/blick-creative-talk-ciaran-crudden-creative-director-of-the-last-brand/

Oct 15

Open post by blickstudios with ID 18081852799955120
Tonight Ciaran Crudden founder and creative director of The Last Brand is sharing his creative story with us at our creative talk. 

Ahead of his talk we have done a short interview with Ciaran which we have been sharing in bits over the last week or so. Here's the full interview and you can also find it on the blog on our website!

We still have a couple of free tickets left for tonight which you can also sign up for on our website if you would like to join us!

https://blickstudios.org/events/blick-creative-talk-ciaran-crudden-creative-director-of-the-last-brand/

** Blick Resident Gallery 545 – Contemporary Art of Northern Ireland #6 **

25 October – 22 November 2025
 
Blick resident Gallery 545 @gallery545online  in collaboration with the Island Arts Centre @islandartscentre presents this annual showcase of contemporary art of Northern Ireland, presenting over twenty accomplished artists and a diverse selection of exciting artworks.

Featuring Lisa Ballard, Justė Bernotaitė, Majella Clancy, Craig Donald, Ray Duncan, Emma Fitzpatrick, Karl Hagan, Elham Hemmat, Eamonn Higgins, Ashely B. Holmes, Sharon Kelly, Louise Lennon, Judith Logan, Alison Lowry, Rosie McGurran, Sinead McKeever, Sarah McWilliams, Maria Perry, Frances O’Reilly, Latisha Reihill, Katherine St Angelo and Anushiya Sundaralingam.

See the events page of our website for more info or @gallery545online on Instagram

https://blickstudios.org/events/contemporary-art-of-northern-ireland-6/

Oct 14

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** Blick Resident Gallery 545 – Contemporary Art of Northern Ireland #6 **

25 October – 22 November 2025
 
Blick resident Gallery 545 @gallery545online  in collaboration with the Island Arts Centre @islandartscentre presents this annual showcase of contemporary art of Northern Ireland, presenting over twenty accomplished artists and a diverse selection of exciting artworks.

Featuring Lisa Ballard, Justė Bernotaitė, Majella Clancy, Craig Donald, Ray Duncan, Emma Fitzpatrick, Karl Hagan, Elham Hemmat, Eamonn Higgins, Ashely B. Holmes, Sharon Kelly, Louise Lennon, Judith Logan, Alison Lowry, Rosie McGurran, Sinead McKeever, Sarah McWilliams, Maria Perry, Frances O’Reilly, Latisha Reihill, Katherine St Angelo and Anushiya Sundaralingam.

See the events page of our website for more info or @gallery545online on Instagram 

https://blickstudios.org/events/contemporary-art-of-northern-ireland-6/

An Interview with Ciaran Crudden Creative Director and Founder of The Last Brand who is sharing his story at our next Creative Talk on Wednesday evening at 7pm in our Hill St studios

Ciaran runs The Last Brand, a small branding and digital design studio in Belfast that works across brand identity, web, experiential and motion.

You can find details and sign up on the events page of our website for Ciaran`s talk!

You can also read Ciaran`s full interview on our website blog: https://blickstudios.org/blog/an-interview-with-ciaran-crudden-creative-director-and-founder-of-the-...

Oct 14

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An Interview with Ciaran Crudden Creative Director and Founder of The Last Brand	who is sharing his story at our next Creative Talk on Wednesday evening at 7pm in our Hill St studios 
 
Ciaran runs The Last Brand, a small branding and digital design studio in Belfast that works across brand identity, web, experiential and motion.

You can find details and sign up on the events page of our website for Ciaran's talk!

You can also read Ciaran's full interview on our website blog: https://blickstudios.org/blog/an-interview-with-ciaran-crudden-creative-director-and-founder-of-the-...

Our next Creative Talk is this Wednesday 15th October at 7pm in our Hill St studios with Ciaran Crudden founder and creative director of The Last Brand a creative studio committed to crafting brands that capture imaginations and inspire meaningful consumer interactions.

Ciaran is a senior creative with over 15 years’ experience across branding, experiential, art direction and motion design. His work focuses on uncovering the visual and verbal threads that connect and resonate with audiences. Known for bold ideas and thoughtful execution, Ciaran blends strategy with creativity to craft brand communications and experiences that are both distinctive and authentic.

In this talk, Ciaran will reflect on his creative journey, offering insights into different projects, valuable lessons learned, and the real-world experience of running an independent creative studio. You can find out more about Ciaran and see his work on his website The Last Brand https://www.thelastbrand.co.uk/

Here we are also sharing some examples of his design and branding work for the drinks industry. If you would like to come along to hear Ciaran share his creative story you can sign up for free on the events page of our website link below and in profile

CREATIVE TALK DETAILS

Date: Wed 15th October
Time: 7pm - 8pm
Venue: Blick Hill St
Cost: Free

More info & booking: https://blickstudios.org/events/blick-creative-talk-ciaran-crudden-creative-director-of-the-last-bra...

Oct 13

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Our next Creative Talk is this Wednesday 15th October at 7pm in our Hill St studios with Ciaran Crudden founder and creative director of The Last Brand a creative studio committed to crafting brands that capture imaginations and inspire meaningful consumer interactions.

Ciaran is a senior creative with over 15 years’ experience across branding, experiential, art direction and motion design. His work focuses on uncovering the visual and verbal threads that connect and resonate with audiences. Known for bold ideas and thoughtful execution, Ciaran blends strategy with creativity to craft brand communications and experiences that are both distinctive and authentic.

In this talk, Ciaran will reflect on his creative journey, offering insights into different projects, valuable lessons learned, and the real-world experience of running an independent creative studio. You can find out more about Ciaran and see his work on his website The Last Brand https://www.thelastbrand.co.uk/

Here we are also sharing some examples of his design and branding work for the drinks industry. If you would like to come along to hear Ciaran share his creative story you can sign up for free on the events page of our website link below and in profile 

CREATIVE TALK DETAILS

Date: Wed 15th October
Time: 7pm - 8pm
Venue: Blick Hill St
Cost: Free

More info & booking: https://blickstudios.org/events/blick-creative-talk-ciaran-crudden-creative-director-of-the-last-bra...

In 2 weeks on Saturday 25th October!

* * Digital Brunch: Creative Audio for Beginners * *

Are you curious about how to bring stories to life through sound? In this session we’ll be joined by radio and audio producer Owen McFadden from WhyFi Productions, who’ll draw on his experience of creating award-winning audio for BBC Radio Ulster, Radio 4 and more, to give insights into the basics of recording, editing, and shaping audio into compelling listening. Whether you’re curious about podcasting, oral history, or creative soundscapes, this session will give you time and inspiration to think about the potential and power of audio.

Workshop details
Date: Saturday 25th October
Time: 10.00am – 12.15pm
Location: Blick Studios, Hill Street, Belfast
Cost: £15.00
For more information or to book your place visit:
https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Oct 11

Open post by blickstudios with ID 18063255422454651
In 2 weeks on Saturday 25th October! 

* * Digital Brunch: Creative Audio for Beginners * * 

Are you curious about how to bring stories to life through sound? In this session we’ll be joined by radio and audio producer Owen McFadden from WhyFi Productions, who’ll draw on his experience of creating award-winning audio for BBC Radio Ulster, Radio 4 and more, to give insights into the basics of recording, editing, and shaping audio into compelling listening. Whether you’re curious about podcasting, oral history, or creative soundscapes, this session will give you time and inspiration to think about the potential and power of audio.

Workshop details
Date: Saturday 25th October
Time: 10.00am – 12.15pm
Location: Blick Studios, Hill Street, Belfast
Cost: £15.00
For more information or to book your place visit:
https://blickstudios.org/events/digital-brunch-creative-audio-for-beginners/

Our latest roundup of local and international funding, support & opportunities for NI creatives

01. The Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre Artist / Creative Call Out – Digital Exhibition
The Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre are looking for digital submissions of works (in any discipline – Visual Arts, Written word, Film / Performance) for a thought-provoking Visual Arts Exhibition – displayed via screens and projections and a performance, highlighting Hate Crime.
Closing date: 4pm, 14th October 2025.

02. BSOA Christmas Market Open Call for Vendors
Saturday 29th November Belfast School of Art and Belfast School of Art Art Shop Christmas Market 2025

03. Grants for Blocked Creatives
Any creative can apply: artists, writers, painters, makers, designers. uk participants only. 18+
To apply: comment an emoji (or DM an emoji if you’re unable to comment)
Deadline extended: midnight 17th October 2025

04. Exhibition Call Out at Millennium Court
Millennium Court have released an open call for exhibition proposals. Most shows run for 4-6 weeks with a week for installation and de-installation.
Closing date: 31st October

05. Ards Arts Centre and North Down Museum OPEN CALL: ForM Sculpture Exhibition 2026
Applications are now open for artists from Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to propose works, suitable for outdoors, that responds to the environment of Bangor Castle Walled Garden.
Closing date: Mon 2 March 2026, 11:59pm (sharp)

Full listings including links on our blog link below and in profile:
https://blickstudios.org/blog/creative-roundup-opportunities-for-creatives-4/

Oct 9

Open post by blickstudios with ID 18104845957717896
Our latest roundup of local and international funding, support & opportunities for NI creatives

01. The Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre Artist / Creative Call Out – Digital Exhibition 
The Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre are looking for digital submissions of works (in any discipline – Visual Arts, Written word, Film / Performance) for a thought-provoking Visual Arts Exhibition – displayed via screens and projections and a performance, highlighting Hate Crime.
Closing date: 4pm, 14th October 2025.

02. BSOA Christmas Market Open Call for Vendors
Saturday 29th November Belfast School of Art and Belfast School of Art Art Shop Christmas Market 2025

03. Grants for Blocked Creatives
Any creative can apply: artists, writers, painters, makers, designers. uk participants only. 18+
To apply: comment an emoji (or DM an emoji if you’re unable to comment) 
Deadline extended: midnight 17th October 2025

04. Exhibition Call Out at Millennium Court 
Millennium Court have released an open call for exhibition proposals. Most shows run for 4-6 weeks with a week for installation and de-installation. 
Closing date: 31st October

05. Ards Arts Centre and North Down Museum OPEN CALL: ForM Sculpture Exhibition 2026 
Applications are now open for artists from Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to propose works, suitable for outdoors, that responds to the environment of Bangor Castle Walled Garden.
Closing date: Mon 2 March 2026, 11:59pm (sharp)

Full listings including links on our blog link below and in profile: 
https://blickstudios.org/blog/creative-roundup-opportunities-for-creatives-4/

On the final day of his interview with us ahead of his talk next Wed 15th October Ciaran shares with us how he copes on the days he doubts himself and his creative work

If you want to sign up for the talk just visit the events page of our website!

Oct 8

Open post by blickstudios with ID 18089438362842263
On the final day of his interview with us ahead of his talk next Wed 15th October Ciaran shares with us how he copes on the days he doubts himself and his creative work

If you want to sign up for the talk just visit the events page of our website!

It`s a busy week. As well as today`s Creative Brunch event with Innovate UK Business Growth and tonight`s Creative Adventure Club with @homewerk.project this Friday 10th October we are very excited to be hosting a ‘Retail Ready Fieldtrip’ we have organised for a group of creative Ulster University Enterprise Placement Year students, covering topics such as:

• Understanding your Market – what makes your product different, where you will ideally sell your work, which retailers/ platforms will work best for your business

• Merchandising your product

• How to approach retailers

• How to present your product

• How to find the right retailers for your work

• Pricing your work

Delivered in partnership and with the kind support of the following local independent retailers who will generously be sharing their first-hand experiences and insights with the students

• Linzi Rooney founder of @wearebornandbred_ a gift shop in Belfast that specialises in the art of gifting top quality, locally designed products. Sourcing the best talent across the island of Ireland.

• Emma Jackson founder of @hunterpaperco an independent shop in Belfast, which sells a range of carefully curated stationery as well as their own luxury letterpress stationery, greetings cards and art prints

• Rachel McIlgorm founder of @storyboxni  a Belfast-based social enterprise which sources and sells ethical gifts from local makers, social enterprises, and sustainable brands.

Thanks to Ulster University for inviting us to be part of their programme of events for the students

This event is specifically for Ulster University Enterprise Placement Year Students so unfortunately you can`t book a place, but we will be sure to share some pics and insights following the event

Oct 8

Open post by blickstudios with ID 18056917472234231
It's a busy week. As well as today's Creative Brunch event with Innovate UK Business Growth and tonight's Creative Adventure Club with @homewerk.project this Friday 10th October we are very excited to be hosting a ‘Retail Ready Fieldtrip’ we have organised for a group of creative Ulster University Enterprise Placement Year students, covering topics such as:

• Understanding your Market – what makes your product different, where you will ideally sell your work, which retailers/ platforms will work best for your business

• Merchandising your product

• How to approach retailers

• How to present your product

• How to find the right retailers for your work

• Pricing your work

Delivered in partnership and with the kind support of the following local independent retailers who will generously be sharing their first-hand experiences and insights with the students

• Linzi Rooney founder of @wearebornandbred_ a gift shop in Belfast that specialises in the art of gifting top quality, locally designed products. Sourcing the best talent across the island of Ireland.

• Emma Jackson founder of @hunterpaperco an independent shop in Belfast, which sells a range of carefully curated stationery as well as their own luxury letterpress stationery, greetings cards and art prints

• Rachel McIlgorm founder of @storyboxni  a Belfast-based social enterprise which sources and sells ethical gifts from local makers, social enterprises, and sustainable brands.

Thanks to Ulster University for inviting us to be part of their programme of events for the students

This event is  specifically for Ulster University Enterprise Placement Year Students so unfortunately you can't book a place, but we will be sure to share some pics and insights following the event
Our locations:

Blick Shared Studios, Hill Street

46 Hill Street, Belfast, BT1 2LB
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Blick Shared Studios, Cotton Court

30-42 Waring Street, Belfast, BT1 2ED
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Blick Shared Studios, Great Northern St

65 Great Northern Street, Belfast, BT9 7FL
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02890137395 info@blickstudios.org
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