The effort to go to London seems to have sucked all energy out of me since then. I’ve been working steadily on my graphic novel, and I can’t seem to update my website, so instead I found myself spending too much time updating my blog, and making it look really good:http://helendearnleyillustration.blogspot.co.uk/
I have spoken to Gingerbread, the lone parent charity, and the council, and I’m reassured that I will largely not be affected by any of the cuts being proposed for people like single parents struggling to find work with the threat of changes to being self employed and relying on Working Tax Credits. I’ve researched a few career options, to become an Hourly Paid Lecturer, it would seem, I may need a Masters. I can’t afford to do a Masters, even though I want to, as I don’t earn enough to live on, let alone undertake further study. I know a single parent friend who is doing an MA and paying for it out of her benefits. I don’t know how she does that. I’m struggling enough as it is.
I received a letter recently for Council Tax, and because our council is opposing the cuts, the balance due is zero.
If I earnt the income I am supposed to be earning, I would gladly pay council tax, but I’m waiting to find out about this paid University staff position, I don’t know whether to keep inquiring about it, or wait until I hear more news about it.
I was unsuccessful with a recent International Arts Travel bursary application. “Only 22 out of 214 applications were chosen” so that means they need more funding to provide for the other 192 applicants. I suggest badgering a few rich bankers.
I just received an email inviting me to a TED talk in York. I would love to go! http://www.pilot-theatre.com/?IDNO=1390
But what is this? Supported by Arts Council funding, but I’m expected to pay £180 for a ticket!! In what universe do artists pay for ACE funded events??
