Central Station

FAQ

What's this all about then?

Central Station is creative social network for people interested in art, film and design.

If you make work, Central Station is a community where you can talk to peers and showcase yourself. It's also a place where you can find opportunities. If you're interested in creative talent, it's somewhere to spot people you might want to commission or just keep track of. And regardless of who you are, it's a space where you can browse and be entertained by a huge and ever-growing pool of creative work.

If it helps, think of it as a hub of virtual studios. A community where you can make or talk about work. With a gallery attached where you can showcase what you do, or look at what people are exhibiting. There are also Collections of hidden gems and resources that you may not currently have access to, Projects where you can advertise or take advantage of opportunities and Events where you can meet real people in the real world.

Do I have to pay for any of this stuff?

Nope, Central Station is free for individual members and creative teams.

If I upload my work, does Central Station then own it?

You keep all rights to your work, no matter where you put it. It belongs to you: this is important to us. What people might do is share it with each other, embed it elsewhere. That's all good exposure for what you do. If you're worried about this, it might be an idea to watermark your video and images so that people can always track back to you, the owner.
As the project develops, we're planning on adding advice and guidance about protecting your work. Do also remember, you can remove stuff as and when you want to.

How are you different from Facebook?

People keep asking us this. Facebook is for everyone and anyone. Central Station is specifically for creative people. It's visually driven and is set up to provide space and resources for those working in art, film and design. Use Facebook too - as a place to chat generally about...stuff. And use us a place to further your practice and talk to your peers.

Is Central Station just for Scottish people?

No, not at all. Many of our funders and partners are Scottish because that's where we're based. But this is an online project - it has no geographical boundaries. We're interested in the connections a platform like Central Station can help develop, no matter where you live.

Who's behind it?

Glasgow-based digital studio ISO developed the concept alongside friends from the world of art, design and film who were looking to explore the creative potential of social media.

How is it funded?

We received an Inspire Award from the Scottish Arts Council, production support from Scottish Screen and a 4ip (Innovation for the Public) award from Channel 4.
Other partners working with us on the project are listed here.

Why's it called Central Station?

Sometimes a name attaches itself to a project. Central Station was early shorthand for something symbolising a point of connection, transitory relationships, new experiences. And it sort of stuck...

What if I'm not an artist, designer or film-maker?

Central Station is a community for people with an interest in creative practice. Fullstop. Sign up and then you too can get involved in discussions, share work, join in events and projects. This is a place for architects, performers, curators, educators, writers, musicians, thinkers... Get involved.