Artists International Funding Opportunity - Arts council first deadline May 31st

If you are an artist interested in international collaboration and you are based in England, there is an opportunity for funding from the Arts council (£1K-£5K).  This is to advocate for the benefits of international working and to develop individual artists.  The criteria for assessment fall under 3 headings;
1. Quality - artistic rationale; track record for work with partners in that country; evidence of recognition in England
2. Viability - schedule; letter from partners in host country; support from British council in host country (though this is not essential); approaches to other funding sources
3. Relevance - why this country? why international?
The full details of how to apply and eligibility can be found here http://bit.ly/J8Tm5z
My experience of being part of the Artist links programme in Brazil was inspiring. A report of the value of that programme can be found at the above link.

I would offer a couple of personal thoughts for anyone planning a proposal.

• Limitation is stimulation but travel broadens the mind.  Detail and thoroughness in the planning can allow space for you and your work to be affected and transformed by the international encounter. 
• This opportunity invites ambition.  As Michelangelo once said, the greatest danger for most of us is not that our aim is too high and we miss it, but that we aim too low and we reach it.