[c]CC Art School was an online programme of guest speaker talks and member forums and crits. It ran from September 2025 to July 2026. {c]CC has been evolved into Virga Studio Group at Virga Gallery, the sister site of [cloud]. Find out more about becoming a Virga Studio Group artist here.

What does [c]CC stand for?

The answer is both simple and playful!

Each ‘C’ stands for the following, which are all deeply meaningful and equal parts of our mission:

C is for CREATIVITY. We believe creativity is the solution to so much of the world’s needs for an equitable and productive global society.

C is for CRITICALITY. Being aware of the importance of meaning, contexts, cultures, histories, technologies, politics, geographies, and philosophies is the touchstone of art that has true relevance and currency.

C is for COMMUNITY. Artists need each other to survive, thrive, and grow. We are both unique and collaborative in equal measure. To determine the direction of self is to be open to the possibilities of wider influences, experiences, and opinions.

Where did [c]CC come from?

There’s a hidden ‘C’, implied in [c]CC – and that is [c] within Lie brackets. This is ‘C’ for [cloud].

[cloud] or [cloud] collective was formed by artist academics Dr Gemma Marmalade and Dr Jane Boyer in 2024. After meeting during their PhD studies at the Cambridge School of Art, UK, in 2016, they quickly aligned with their creative, academic, and professional vocations and values. Their joint desire to find alternative, non-traditional and flexible ways to support visual artists in their own unique journeys was born out of not finding a model that truly suited them. They decided to create the solution to their own problem. They share this through all [cloud] endeavours, including [c]CC.

What if I have zero experience in art and I’m just starting out? Is [c]CC for me?

You are welcome! Zero previous experience is not an issue. If you simply have a curious mind about anything creative, you are already fully qualified to consider yourself equipped and ready to join [c]CC.

What if I’m an artist mid-way or established in my career? Can [c]CC help me?

Absolutely. [c]CC is a critical and respectful space for all levels of experience and engagement. Perspectives sought from early career practitioners to the seasoned professionals are as vital to the critical awareness of any artist, no matter their stage of progress, including those with developed styles, careers, and reputations. At [c]CC, we deliver highly nuanced, differentiated methods of meaningful creative engagement where everyone has agency and value.

Is this only for art students?

No – although we absolutely welcome art students studying conventional or traditional modes of education too! Our values and wisdom come from our collective experience and perspective! Art students can use [c]CC to support and enhance their learning as a separate, private, or extra-curricular learning opportunity both independently or through their learning provider. We all benefit from the wider pool of creative thinkers, practitioners, and researchers, at all levels of study or development personally, academically, and professionally. Also, we artists LOVE it when someone is not an artist at all! See below…

What is meant by ‘visual artists’? And what if I do something different? Or I’m just curious about art?

Describing our interest in ‘visual arts’ pertains to any artistic practice or medium that presents any quality of visuality. If this is you, you will feel right at home. That said, we also completely recognise the intersections, inter- and trans-disciplinary practices of other mediums, disciplines, or subjects of expertise who many benefit from the acuity of a visual or artistic awareness. Are you an accountant trying to see the value of patterns in numbers? A business stuck in linear, conventional thinking? Or maybe you just want to grow an appreciation of art? This is the place for you too.

How will I feel included?

At [c]CC and across the whole [cloud] portfolio, we are committed to ensuring an equitable, diverse, inclusionary, decolonised, culturally competent, incorporated, and sustainable model of operations with all our work. Not just that, we’re humans who genuinely care about you. We don’t shy away from challenges or complications. We know life can often be complex and messy. We advocate for human agency with a caring and supportive view. Please see our Statements and Commitment to Ethos.

Is my information secure? How will my membership in [c]CC be a safe place to discuss my work and experiences?

Your information provided is, at every step, dealt with care, privacy, and consideration to all lawful responsibilities imposed upon and fully agreed by [cloud] and Nephology Limited, as a registered UK based company.

[c]CC is a safe, monitored, and secure virtual place to share – when you feel trust and commitment to do so – whatever you wish without judgement or discrimination. All [c]CC members or associates to the [cloud] community are bound by an acceptance to the Commitment to Ethos terms.

How can I try it out without commitment before I consider becoming a subscriber?

We absolutely want you to sample what [c]CC provides before you sign up to any greater level of commitment. Why not attend a single [c]Word talk, or a Spill the ‘T’ session, or take a Monthly Mentor’session to find out if it is a good fit for you? But remember, even after subscription, you can cancel at any time, no quibble. See our products.

I don’t want to be part of a group or community, but I do want bespoke help with a project or plan for my career. Can you help?

Absolutely. Our Monthly Mentor scheme is designed for bespoke and personalised support. It can complement a subscription at Tier One or Tier Two as an ‘add-on’ or automatically incorporated at Tier Three. Alternatively, bypass the Tiers and just buy a ‘Monthly Mentor’. After your first session with an expert – or with two experts – you can create a bespoke and personalised package to develop a general project or support your wider practice. See our products.

I’ve just graduated from a creative course of study in a college or university, and I’m petrified. How do I move into the next stage of my education successfully?

This is where [c]CC can help you! Look at any of our Tier options and check out ‘Prep Your Postgrad’. This session is specifically targeted at any level ‘graduate’ preparing for their next course of study. Maybe you want to apply to a course but need support to optimise your application and chances of success – this plan is for you! See our products.

Do I graduate or ‘finish’ the programme with [c]CC? Is it a qualification?

[c]CC is not a traditional programme or qualification – it’s so much more than that. It is a critical friend and support network that can accompany your career journey for as long as you want it. Whilst not a traditional qualification, it is a validation of your commitment to your creative development. Your association with recognised art experts and academics through [c]CC will provide important reputational development.

I’ve ordered a product by accident, want to change my subscription, or cancel it. How do I do that?

No problem. Please check out our Refunds and Returns policy.

I’m an organisation, educational provider, business or institution. Is there a wholesale or multi booking option for my colleagues, students, members, or clients?

Absolutely! Anyone looking to block book sessions in multiples of 5, 10 and 20 subscriptions can make significant savings. [c]CC serves as a tool for any organisation looking to enhance the experience of their associates. See our block booking products here.

Can [c]CC help me develop visibility of my practice in public forums, exhibitions and publications?

Definitely. All subscription options will enhance this, especially with Monthly Mentor built in or added on.

I am looking for professional representation of my arts practice. Can you help?

Let’s talk! If you are an artist looking for representation, this is where [cloud] intersects with the art world. [cloud] hosts and supports selected artists to progress their visibility. Please email us at cloud_info@cloud-collective.net or complete this form.

I love [c]CC and want to demonstrate my part in its community! How can I do that?

We love this and thank you for your support! The best way to fully be part of [c]CC is to enjoy and engage with our subscription products, share our social media and provide us with a testimony we can share. Merch is coming soon! Keep an eye on our products page.

I have a concern or complaint. How do I resolve this?

We are committed to a solution to your concerns. Please email us at cloud_info@cloud-collective.net or complete this form.

I have a question that isn’t answered here. What do I do?

We want to hear your questions! Not only will we answer it, we will add your question to our FAQ. Please email us at cloud_info@cloud-collective.net or complete this form.