Approach

Forma works with emerging and mid-career British and international artists.

We support the research, development, production and commissioning of artistic projects that span multiple disciplines, challenge existing practices, and demand new levels of ambition.

With a distinct emphasis on collaboration, creative inquiry and production values, we work with artists and partners to develop interdisciplinary, site-specific and large-scale projects for audiences worldwide, from community collaborations to institutional programming.

R&D
Forma is committed to supporting and resourcing artists to undertake an R&D phase as part of their commissioning process. We begin with the artist’s idea and undergo an iterative process to art making that is developmental and collaborative. We recognise the need for risk taking in the development of art and the vital role of R&D in the development of talent. R&D support doesn’t always result in work being taken forward to production, but it does contribute to the artistic growth of individuals that we work with, giving them space to experiment with or develop their artistic practice.

The R&D we support includes concept research and funding, location visits, residencies, workshops and labs. We emphasise this processes contribution to the development of creative and professional trajectories, with a particular focus on supporting partnership building, community engagement and legacy building.

Commissions
We commission and produce ambitious artwork that would not be possible without the support of a creative producer. We are interested in commissioning artworks that develop artistic practices and forms, embrace artistic risk and demand high quality production.

Programme
As producers of a year-round programme of research, development, presentation and publishing, Forma works with artists to develop projects that expand form and context. Our roaming programme and digital platforms provide an integrated way of bringing the work of artists to a wider audience.

Touring
Forma’s portfolio of touring projects provides our partners with opportunities to create unique routes into contemporary art for a range of audiences. Upholding Forma’s commitment to boundary breaking creativity and innovation, we work closely with artists on adapting their projects for touring, developing new working relationships, and building partnerships for new productions. Click here for details of current touring projects.

Publishing
Existing at points of crossover between production, presentation and preservation, our publishing activity includes self-publishing as artistic practice alongside editions, digital artwork, live streaming, podcasts and an audio-visual archive of performances and artist talks.

Forma is supported using public funding by Arts Council England. Registered charity no. 1152156. Registered company no. 04338639.