A selection of recent commissions and short personal films
Future Stirchley
In this short film, shop and business owners, residents and users of Stirchley High Street, South Birmingham, share their thoughts on what the area means to them and how they see its future. The film reflects the deep connection that this community feels with Stirchley and how they are working together to make a positive impact.
Keepers of the Light
A film celebrating the iconic lighthouse at Portland Bill in Dorset, Southern England, and the location of its original production, the Chance Glassworks in Smethwick in the West Midlands. Using oral histories and archive materials, combining photographic and film fragments, the film explores, celebrates and shares the connective history and significance of these places, engaging with themes of place and identity.
Young Carers
Sandwell Advocacy works to empower young carers who find it difficult to say what they want and need, and helps them have greater control over their everyday lives. This film was commissioned to show the impact of the work of Sandwell Advocacy in the words of the young carers, parents and professionals.
Talking Chances: Voices from the Glassworks
A compilation produced from an archive of interviews with former Chance Brothers Glassworks employees. Participants will share their personal experiences of life at the factory, and their stories capture the camaraderie, craftsmanship, and dedication that defined the workforce at one of Smethwick’s most important industrial sites.
Libraries Live
A short film documenting one of three artist commissions in community-led libraries across Leicestershire, Birmingham and Staffordshire as part of the Libraries Live initiative. The film shows the process and impact of artist Michaela McMillan, who worked with the local community at Water Orton Library.
Cycling the West Coast of Scotland
A personal project that recorded parts of a month-long cycle journey up the west coast of Scotland. Along the way, I recorded encounters with different people who spoke about their connection and sense of belonging to this beautiful and sometimes wild part of the country.
Writers Without Borders
Commissioned by the Birmingham Literary Festival, this short film celebrates the creative work of Writers Without Borders, a Birmingham-based group of writers from a variety of cultural backgrounds.
Malvern Cube
The Malvern Cube is a vibrant and welcoming community centre with a busy cafe at its heart. It hosts a thriving creative and educational programme for young people and over 30 community groups. This film was commissioned to celebrate many of the activities that take place each week throughout the year.