Caring Scotlandis a transformative Oral History Project that will document the lives and experiences of at least 100 members of Scotland’s care-experienced community. Conceived by acclaimed playwright Nicola McCartney, who brings her deep understanding as both a foster parent and a Children’s Panel member, this project amplifies voices too often unheard.

Its artistic outputs include a touring immersive exhibition and a dedicated photography exhibition showcasing 10 care-experienced individuals, their portraits paired with audio stories. The legacy will endure as an oral history archive preserved at the National Library of Scotland.

We are looking for a visionary photographer to help us bring this project to life. Your work will form the heart of the photography exhibition, featuring powerful portraits that celebrate the diversity, resilience, and individuality of Scotland’s care-experienced community. Touring from April 2026, this exhibition will leave a lasting impression, offering audiences an intimate glimpse into the stories behind the faces.

This is a chance to collaborate with a passionate and creative team, work closely with individuals from across Scotland, and create a body of work that will resonate for years to come. If your Scotland based and this sounds like you, we encourage you to apply.

The project will be delivered by NTS in partnership with Who Cares? Scotland and the National Library of Scotland, funded with an award from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

HOW TO APPLY

We want you to tell us why you would like this commission and what makes you the ideal artist. We are keen to know why you are particularly interested in working with the Care Experienced community. We are keen to hear about examples of working with members of the public, marginalised communities and hear about your process. Please let us know how your work and experience to date shows that you meet the requirements of the role listed

Please complete statement of application (no more 500 words) (via Submittable – link below). Please also upload examples of your work that you feel are relevant to this commission and upload your CV. You will also be able to share more of your work via links.

We would also like to know if there are any other responsibilities or requirements that you may have (for example: childcare or any other access needs) that will make it easier for you to take part in the recruitment process. We are happy to accommodate these to the best of our ability and would encourage you to let us know when you apply.

At the National Theatre of Scotland, we aim to provide an anti-oppressive environment for people from all backgrounds and do not discriminate against based on race, national or ethnic background, citizen status, hair texture, hairstyle, sex, sexual orientation, gender(s), gender expression, age, religion, language, deaf, disability, neurodiversity, chronic conditions, mental health, socio-economic status, skin tone, body size, educational background, pregnancy or maternity/paternity, marriage or civil partnership, class, immigration status, nor cultural markings and/or tattoos including those due to religious rituals from pre-colonial cultural practices. As language, terms, and expressions inevitably evolve the National Theatre of Scotland is committed to reviewing this statement of language in collaboration with our respective communities