Our Manifesto
The Artistic Gremlins Workshop first began as the personal practice of our founder, Liam Francis. It has since grown further in response to a desire to share a space with creatives, in which together we can explore what holds us back creatively without judgment. It has become increasingly apparent that a space which encourages individuals to dig deep and share artistic hang ups can be extremely beneficial.
We recognise that anxiety, doubt and fear can sometimes arise in situations that require creativity. While vulnerability is often at the core of these reactions, it is also where we are able find authentic joy in creative environments and deep connections with others and our community.
We aim to create safe spaces where people can share a reflective practice, as well as discussions, with members of their creative community. Since 2019, participants have been guided through the playful workshops in a variety of different forms which continue to grow in their outreach and versatility. The workshops strive to offer a reflective rest stop for artists and creatives alike, through exploration, consideration and conversation
We seek to dive into these vulnerabilities and nurture the realisation that we all experience such feelings in some form. We believe in fostering a deeper understanding of our Artistic Gremlins and sharing these findings with fellow creatives. It is our belief that these two courageous acts will allow us to be kinder to ourselves and others, whilst also contributing to a more supportive artistic community that is empowered and free to create more boldly.
Liam Francis
Liam is a professional dancer, published writer and choreographer. Currently based in London, he has been a member of the Rambert Dance Company since 2014 and has had the privilege of dancing works by a plethora of different choreographers. He has also shared his own choreography in London, Oxford and New York. In 2019, Liam shared his personal and playful reflective practice with some fellow creatives. Reflecting upon the experience Liam recalls; ‘never had vulnerability been so fun, or my Gremlins so quiet’. In the following months, The Artistic Gremlins Workshop began to take its first form. Two years later, after collaborating with practicing psychologists and self-imposed trial and error, the workshops continue to expand to wider audiences; offering spaces in which creatives can feel supported in their exploration of the psychological experience of making. Liam is committed to creating spaces in which artists are able to explore what holds them back creatively; with honesty, openness and kindness. It is his hope that through these workshops creatives will be able to further develop their psychological awareness, enabling the confidence to step into creative spaces with courage and freedom.
Emily Gunn
Emily Gunn is a freelance dancer and published article writer currently based in London. Most notably, she has performed both nationally and internationally with Rambert2 performing works by choreographers such as Ohad Naharin, Andrea Miller and Jermaine Spivey. Throughout the pandemic, alongside working with the NHS, she has continued to create and develop her own work through different media channels; collaborating with artists across the globe through the use of video and photography. While she remains steadfast in her love for performance and creation and hopes to be back on stage soon, the opportunity to write for various publications has allowed her to connect with interesting personalities outside of dance.
Emily hopes to reach more diverse communities and expand the space in which the project holds, allowing creatives to more easily and comfortably discuss their Gremlins.