Anna Rubycz lets us in on her online haunts.
Cheeky I know& but the site really is an extremely useful resource for anyone working in the youth arts sector. It has been useful for me in terms of making initial contacts and links as, in developing the site, I have unearthed an incredible amount of youth arts activity that I wasnt previously aware of. The case studies of projects and careers are interesting and inspiring, and it helps me keep up to date with what's going on in the sector.
2. http://www.workshopnetwork.co.uk
This website will be exceptionally useful for anyone who is searching for a workshop leader of any description! Workshop network is a new agency entirely for freelance artists. The website has only just gone live and provides the ability to search for freelance workshop artists from any artform area. All of the workshop leaders are Criminal Records Bureau checked and are checked for public liability insurance. Having previously worked in a busy education department at a theatre, I know just how valuable this site will be!
3. http://www.2012artsnetwork.org.uk
The arts network is a free service, run voluntarily by one guy alone, and aims to provide a central location for information for all arts organisations interested in the opportunities that the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games may present. Its a great idea for a site and something I think we should all be thinking towards and participating in within the arts.
I personally love this site and everything that Jamie Oliver has done to raise awareness of nutrition amongst the general public and, in particular, young people. The site is easy to use and appealing for young people as well as adults, including loads of healthy recipes and regular updates from the man himself. If only there was a Jamie Oliver to represent youth arts!
5. http://www.gigsandtours.com
This site is great for all of the up and coming live gigs, particularly rock and indie music, and it is really easy to search for an artist. They have a very reliable news bulletin, which always seems to have something that catches my eye and makes me part with my money!