Creative LETS

Creative LETS is the arts organisation with a difference. Open to all creative individuals and organisations it is a non-profit making group run by agreement between its members. It is free to join and enables members to trade skills and resources without using money.

Creative LETS provides the members with a directory of skills and resources enabling members to trade. The Creative LETS unit of currency is called a Bart. How does this work? You identify some need that you have, then find a member of Creative LETS that can fulfil it for you. Agree a price, and then pay for the work with a Creative LETS cheque - made out in Barts - which they then pass to us so we can action the payment (a mixture of Barts and pounds is often used as well). Creative LETS will send you a regular statement reflecting your trading activity in the scheme.

The Bart is roughly equivalent to a pound, but Barts are accessible to people in ways that pounds aren't. You can't spend them in a pub, but you can get an artistic project off the ground without putting your benefit in danger. Or get something started without having to apply for grants right away. Ever had a great idea, but been isolated from the people and facilities to make it happen? You need Creative LETS.

As if this wasn't enough, the scheme works as a networking resource for members. Creative LETS organises regular exhibitions and events showcasing the members’ work, and a mailing list that acts as a free publicity resource. The next exhibition is planned for December 2005 at ArtSpeq Gallery, Quiggins, and there's a music and poetry performance night at The Cali, Catharine Street every third Tuesday in the month. We are looking for members that are interested in getting involved at all levels. Whether you just want the opportunity to perform, exhibit or help run the organisation we want to hear from you. Many of our members have gone on to gain paid work from the experience they have gained from being involved with Creative LETS.

If you are interested in joining you can write to: Creative LETS, P.O. Box 153, South Eastern, L15 9JF.
Or email the secretary: lisedgar@iclway.co.uk