A new fund to help young people break into the creative industries is being launched in memory of Liverpool-based photographer Ant Clausen who died in January. Tony McDonough reports

Ant Clausen was a talented photographer and a hugely popular figure and his death early in 2023 was a shock for everyone who knew him.

Although based in Liverpool, Ant was on holiday in his native New Zealand when he passed on January 21, aged 47. He lived in Liverpool with his wife Natalia and their two daughters Scarlett and Liberty. 

He was well known in the Liverpool business community having covered multiple award ceremonies and major events.

Now a new fund is being set up in his memory that will help young people break into the creative industries. Called the Fire it Up Fund, it will be overseen by Ant’s family in partnership with Liverpool’s Open Eye Gallery.

Ot will offer awards to young people from the Liverpool city region who might otherwise struggle to access the funding or support needed to get a start in the industry.

Fundraising will be launched on Thursday, June 22, at an event at Bold Street Coffee – another partner in the project. The venue will display some of Ant’s photography throughout the summer and also raise money for the initiative throughout July. 

Fire it Up was one of Ant’s favourite sayings – when he sensed he or those around him needed a lift or jolt of energy. And it is this positive action which is the driving force for the project. 

The first round of funding – including details for how to apply – will be announced in September with the first awards being announced in early 2024. 

Sarah Fisher, director of Open Eye Gallery, said: “At Open Eye Gallery, discovering and nurturing talent is absolutely central to what we are here to do. 

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“When we were approached with the idea for the fund, it felt like a perfect fit for us to become involved and a fitting and inspiring legacy for Ant. 

“The fund will focus on supporting young people who haven’t had the opportunity for formal training or who have a good eye but maybe don’t know the next steps they need to take to turn their passion into a career.” 

Over the coming months the project is raising funds ahead of the first round of applications. People can click here to make a donation and those interested in getting involved can email info@openeye.org.uk