Estuary Dreams Academy (EDA) is an experimental moving image and digital arts education programme based at HOFS (Hadleigh Old Fire Station) in Castle Point, Essex.
Led by Essex filmmaker and poet Aaron Shrimpton the course takes place over 6 Saturday sessions from October 2026 through to March 2027.
Over this time a cohort of 16 will explore moving image, exhibition-making and professional development. The programme culminates with a showcase at HOFS in February 2027.
The opportunity is open to artists, filmmakers and creatives from or connected to Essex and the Thames Estuary. There is a fee of £150 per participant. To ensure that the opportunity is open to all, x6 of the spaces will be free of charge for those on low incomes.
The workshop is funded by Culture Essex Creative Industries Project Development fund.
What to expect:
Each class day will have a focus, with a variety of sessions with featured artist mentors.
You’ll be supported in generating ideas and starting points, then developing them through mentoring, experimentation, and making.
You will need to develop your ideas in between each class day (you will have access to support during the breaks).
Optional opportunity to socialise and network with creatives in your area.
Who should apply:
Open to independent artists (any medium), filmmakers and practicing creatives from, based in or with a connection to Essex and the Thames Estuary.
Creatives looking to expand their practice by exploring experimental moving image, video, multimedia installation and projection.
Are you eligible?
- Must be over 18.
- Must be from, living in or have a connection to Essex or the Thames Estuary area.
- Be able to travel to Hadleigh, Essex / be on-site in South-East Essex on the dates listed below.
- No formal arts education or qualifications needed, just evidence of an active arts practice of 2+ years.
- Be able to provide x5 examples of your work
- You should have a demonstrable interest in digital art / moving image / film / audio-visual / multimedia-installation / projection.
- A basic knowledge of recording and editing skills is preferred (e.g. CapCut, open-source, premier pro) to help you get the most out of this course.
- Must be self-starting and able to self teach new apps and tools.
- You must be available for all 6 in-person course days.
- Must be comfortable talking about your practice and open to feedback.
What you’ll gain:
- An alternative educational experience shaped by artists, filmmakers, lecturers and Essex based creatives.
- An understanding of experimental approaches to digital art and video making.
- A mix of inspirational workshops from a selection of esteemed artists, lecturers and curators.
- Tools and approaches to kick-start new work.
- Mentorship and feedback sessions.
- A safe, supportive space for learning and making.
- The experience of being part of a group exhibition.
- You’ll join a network of Estuary Dreams alumni and artists based in or from Essex.
Requesting a funded place:
6 of the 16 places are funded for those on lower incomes. To request a free place, please tick the box on the online application form.
Course Dates:
17 Oct - Class Day 1 - Ideas, history & making.
31 Oct - Class Day 2 - Sound, space and projection.
14 Nov - Class Day 3 - Feedback, curation and exhibition planning.
23 Jan - Class Day 4 - Basildon with TOMA.
6 Feb - Class Day 5 - Showcase Development.
19 Feb - Public Showcase at Hadleigh Old Fire Station.
March 2027 - Class Day 6 - Industry & Progression
How to Apply
Please use the G link to submit your application.
Applications close midnight Sunday 16 August 2026.
Results to applicants Friday 4th September.
The selection process:
Applications will be reviewed by the Estuary Dreams team composed of Aaron Shrimpton, Mary Lodge and Suzy Lines. The applications will be judged based on the application from answers and the examples of your practice, there is no interview stage. The team will be looking for candidates that make the best case for wanting to join the academy and those who we think will gain the most from taking part.
While we have publicised this opportunity, please note that: (i) the application and selection process is managed by the advertising company/organisation; and (ii) we rely on them to: provide accurate, up-to-date details about themselves and the opportunity; ensure that opportunities are ethical and paid fairly. To report a listing, please email [email protected].