SoMo Creation
An interview with Sophie Steadman and Molly Hughes - Fine Art 2023
Tell us a little about your small business and/or what motivated you to start:
SoMo Creation is an arts collective created by ourselves (Sophie Steadman and Molly Hughes), when we graduated with Fine Art degrees from the University of Cumbria in 2023. Throughout our degrees, we volunteered at and got involved with as many art events as we could. We really enjoyed working alongside one another and felt as though we could see ourselves doing this together after we had finished university. We became a fully registered CIC in August 2024. We set SoMo up with an aim to provide and promote creative events in Carlisle and the surrounding areas. With community and collaboration as our core principles, we also offer support and guidance to artists who are looking for opportunities and connections in the creative community.
What help did you have/or would you like to have had, from UoC?
We were very lucky to have been graduate artists in residence for a year after we graduated. Throughout this residency, we had a mentor, Karen Jones, who guided and supported us in developing SoMo, and gaining knowledge about CIC's and whether this was the right path for SoMo to take. We are really grateful to have had this support!
Where would you like to be in 12 months’ time?
In 12 months time we would love to be a position where we have had successful funding, to allow us to develop and grow the range or art related opportunities that we can provide for creative people in Cumbria.
Three words that describe your business
Creative, fun, and exciting!
University of Cumbria students and graduates are showing that you don’t have to wait long after your studies to succeed in business. Some more of our successful small business owners share their inspiration and top tips below.