JamFactory’s highly acclaimed Associate Program provides outstanding career development opportunities for emerging artists and designers working in the fields of Ceramics, Glass, Furniture or Jewellery / Metal.
In 2026, the Helpmann Academy is excited to provide two x $2,500 scholarships for eligible applicants applying for JamFactory’s Foundation Year Associate Program.
JamFactory x Helpmann Academy Scholarships are available for final year students and graduates (for up to five years) from a wide range of creative degrees. To check your eligibility click here.
Alexis Mason, the 2025 scholarship recipient, is an emerging ceramic artist whose practice explores the subtle, often overlooked, connections between humanity and the natural world. She graduated with a Bachelor of Creative Industries from the University of South Australia, majoring in Contemporary Art and Design. A pivotal residency in India in early 2024 enriched her appreciation for the spiritual essence of nature, inspiring her ongoing exploration of animism and biomimicry. Guided by intuitive, fluid processes, Alexis creates works that celebrate and honour the beauty, vitality, and transformative power of the environment.
“Receiving the JamFactory x Helpmann Academy Scholarship is an incredible honour that will transform my artistic journey. Immersing myself in JamFactory’s renowned ceramic associateship program will help me to refine my skills, gain knowledge, and push the boundaries of my practice, while fostering growth within a vibrant community deeply connected to my creative passion.”
Alexis Mason, JamFactory x Helpmann Academy Scholarship 2025 recipient
Alexis Mason with some of her creations. Image credit Bollu Vyshnavi.
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
The program is designed to accelerate development of the professional and entrepreneurial skills required to establish and maintain a successful and sustainable creative career.
It provides a platform for networking and peer–to–peer learning in a dynamic creative hub that attracts leading art, craft and design industry figures from across Australia and around the world.
“I feel that I am learning a lot, and I can feel myself improving. By next year, I would like to be confident in the work that I produce and be able to challenge myself in showcasing my work in more exhibitions, markets and competitions.”
Wee Shiang Tay, JamFactory x Helpmann Academy Scholarship 2024 recipient
WHAT TO EXPECT
- Studio space and access to specialist facilities to develop your own work
- Seminars and workshops tailored to building a viable creative business
- Professional mentoring and access to visiting artists and designers
- Exposure to significant career development opportunities
HOW TO APPLY
These scholarships are only available for first–year applicants and contribute to the first year annual fee (successful scholarship recipients will need to cover balance subject to discipline).
Applicants must be a graduate or final–year student from a creative degree at a Helpmann Academy Partner Institution (Flinders University, the University of Adelaide, or the University of South Australia).
To check your eligibility, click here.
To learn more and apply, visit the JamFactory website. You will need to select the JamFactory x Helpmann Academy Scholarships box on the Application Form.
Discover more about JamFactory’s Associate Program, hear directly from our Heads of Studio – Tom Golin, Danielle Rickaby, Jordan Gower and Stu Colwill – and have the opportunity to ask questions HERE.
Scholarships will be awarded on merit and will be selected by Helpmann Academy and JamFactory.
KEY DATES
Applications now open
Online JamFactory information session: Monday 4 August (11am-12pm) via Zoom HERE
Applications close Tuesday 30 September 2025
For more information:
For more information download the JamFactory’s Associate Program Booklet.
Or please email questions to essie.kruckemeyer@jamfactory.com.au
PARTNER
Presented by JamFactory, these scholarships are proudly supported by the Helpmann Academy.
Images: Alexis Mason with some of her creations. Image credit Bollu Vyshnavi.