WORKSHOP: Mental Health & Wellbeing in the Traditional Arts

Working in the traditional arts can be exceptionally rewarding, but it also comes with pressures that aren't always easy to talk about: financial uncertainty, irregular work, time away from home, the blurred line between identity and output, and an industry that often expects you to keep going regardless.
This workshop with Jen Anderson is a space to step back and look at those realities honestly. We'll consider some of the wellbeing challenges specific to working as a traditional artist, share experiences, and explore practical approaches to looking after yourself and each other within the sector.
Part of the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival 2026.
~~~~~
Jen Anderson is the founder of The Bothy Society, a music company working within traditional and folk music in Scotland, and a live booking agent for Apex Music. For over 20 years in the industry, she has worked as a tour manager, promoter, A&R, label manager, and head of business affairs, in roles at Live Nation, Universal Music, Back Yard Music, Machine Management, and Sound Travels Live.
Alongside her industry work, Jen is a Senior Lecturer and Module Leader at pointblank music school, where she has taught for 14 years. She is a trained MHFA Mental Health First Aider and a Help Musicians Mentor, and chairs The BIT Collective, a Scottish charity working towards gender equity in traditional and folk music. She also sits on the boards of the Scottish Music Industry Association (SMIA) and TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland).
~~~~~
This workshop is free, but booking is essential.
~~~~~
This workshop is supported by TRACS (Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland) through Creative Scotland Multi-Year Funding