The introductory weekend to the Future Producers programme was a great experience and has already provided me with plenty of valuable skills to take forward. It has also been excellent to meet all of the talented and enthusiastic characters that I will be working with and learning from over the coming months.
Initially we started off brainstorming in small groups, each group discussing one of the four projects we will have the opportunity to produce. Our group came up with some really inspiring ideas for the Family Arts Festival. Due to this brief session I have already become quite excited with the potential for us to create an amazing event to feature at the festival. We came up with various promotional ideas and plenty of ways to involve residents of Bristol’s Pervasive Media Studios to showcase their skills and projects by using new and exciting technologies to engage the public.
Watching three hours of short films that where submitted for the Encounters Film Festival, in order to produce the programme for the 12-19 year olds screening, was a great pleasure. Not having any kind of background in Film, I found it liberating to have my views heard and discussed with so many people possessing a more in-depth knowledge. I think we are all very proud of the final programme and are excited to see how it will be received at the Encounters festival. Having the opportunity to work with Short Film Programmer, Gaia Meucci, provided me with a greater understanding of the profession. Knowing that many of our decisions reflected her own was a huge boost.
Flora Toulson taught us numerous tips to aid us in delivering effective presentations, which was incredibly beneficial to me as I find it difficult to hold my confidence when addressing an audience.
As a graphic designer I automatically find myself drawn to the visual aspects of each project. I have a desire to work on the branding and promotional elements and to try my hand at any potential set design or event décor. However, one of my main reasons for enrolling in the Futures Producers was my desire to work in direct contact with people, maybe in a co-ordination type role or aiding in the organising and delivery of workshops. The projects that stand out to me are the Family Arts Festival, for the chance to work in conjunction with the other cultural venues in Bristol, and the BFI Gothic season because of the wonderful imagery and fun there is to be had with the subject matter.