The programme is events-based and forms the public face of the organisation aiming to develop relationships between practitioners and participants/audience members. Events take place in appropriate spaces including Patrick Studios’ Project Space.

We are currently developing and focusing on two long term projects:

Social Club – an umbrella programme that brings together ideas, projects, events, debates and activities exploring the boundaries between the social, space and contemporary practice.

Union 105 – A new contemporary art space for Chapeltown which will become a catalyst for workspaces, art projects, training and social events

Click here for all of our current projects or see our Archive for a list of past events.

-Social change and connecting to wider social movements
-Commentary on social situations
-Creating environments for exchange and new projects
-Extending the relational aesthetics/socially engaged art debate

Social Club is a recognised brand and the umbrella programme for ESA that brings together ideas, projects, events, debate, and activities that explore the boundaries between social, space and art. It is made up of regular events (e.g. Socialist Jukebox, Digital Lounge and Social Club bar) that are growing and developing their focus. These events will be linked to specific one off artists’ commissions, events and collaborations.

Social Club Proposals
Many of Social Club events are self initiated, however we are happy to receive proposals from artists and curators to discuss issues to be explored further in the near future with interested parties.

Digital Lounge
Digital Lounge is a touring event (ESA, Seven, NTI) that brings together practitioners and audiences specifically interested in film and digital work. Artists’ films, archives, amateur film makers, computer programmes and experimental moving image work will be shown alongside mainstream films (when appropriate) in a relaxed, informal atmosphere. Meeting, talking and sharing information will be just and important as showing work. Digital Lounge curatorial focus will change and develop depending on partners, hosts and issues being explored.

Social Club Bar
These are one off events that focus around the social. The bar, offering anything from tea and coffee, chilli and rice, beer and wine to soft drinks and crisps is central to these events. The bar, designed by artist Donna Walker continues to be a focus point for games, auctions, discussions and other events.