We are being asked regularly about production levels and what is coming up. April has been considerably busier production wise – a lot more of our mentees, members and trainees have started on film and tv dramas, so hoping everyone else is moving forward too…..if not, we anticipate seeing each month pick up, so hopefully it won’t be too long. WHAT WE'VE BEEN UP TO Props Course 12 new Props Trainees are now ready to move onto productions with a better understanding of how the industry works, how the props teams are structured, what they can expect to be doing and how to do it well. We wish them the very best of luck! GoogleSuite, AirTable and MiroBoards We are delving into collaborative software for the Art Department over three sessions this month. Misli Akdag joins us to demonstrate how this software can be used to effectively share information and streamline systems. Learning in bitesizes and putting new knowledge into immediate action. Thanks to Misli for sharing her expertise and patient guidance. Industry Session - Poor Things We had amazing feedback from this month’s Industry Session with James Price and Shona Heath who kindly talked us through their design approach for Poor Things. Thanks to them for being so candid and generous with their processes and solutions. Mentoring Congratulations to all those who have been confirmed in the next group of our Mentoring Network, starting this month. Thank you to everyone who applied – it was our busiest round and a really strong set of applications. If you didn’t make it this time, please do keep in touch and look at the other sessions and courses coming up. TOP TIP Engage. It’s important to keep busy and engaged, particularly if you’re waiting for the phone to ring and confirm work….it helps prevent the doom spiralling and imposter syndrome from settling in but it is also hugely motivating – learn new things (for work or pleasure) go to new places, reach out to people – it does make a huge difference (and soon enough  you won’t have time to!). THINGS WE HAVE BEEN ENJOYING If you are looking for the best at work breakfast, look no further than this cunning device! Who needs a hob when you can create healthy eggs using this brilliant machine – boiled or poached! Bring on the sourdough, avo and microherbs! Job done. Brighton Festival starts this weekend and runs until 26th May – this year’s Guest Director is writer Frank Cottrell Boyce (The Beautiful Game, Goodbye Christopher Robin, Millions) - films, parades, theatre, circus, readings and music…..it’s all there! It is bluebell season and what is better for the mind than beautiful carpets of these time limited flowers….in woodlands near you for a few more weeks! INDUSTRY SESSIONS & COURSES OVERVIEW OF THE ART DEPARTMENT - 9th May 10:00-12:30 Zoom Perfect for graduates and New Entrants, this 2 hour session examines all the different job roles and art department teams, how they work together and what you need to succeed in them. We also discuss CVs, portfolios and who to call for work and when. It is full of advice for anyone starting out or wanting more information. Cost £125+vat  All details and how to apply here INTRODUCTION TO SET DECORATING - 15th May 10:00-12:30 Zoom Are you looking to work in the Set Decorating team on features and HETV dramas? Or would you like to know more about it before you decide where you are best suited? This Introduction to Set Decorating session will help answer your questions. Perfect for graduates and New Entrants. Cost £125+vat.  All details and how to apply here ONE TO ONE CAREER SESSIONS - BOOK A SLOT “These sessions are like a secret guidebook – all the stuff that you need to know but no-one ever tells you.” This one hour session looks at where you want to be in the film and television drama industries and what you need to do to get there. We look at your CV to make sure it is industry focussed and then identify who you need to get it to and when. Cost £150+vat.  All details and how to apply here TP. MEMBERSHIP Applications open once a year - deadline 19th May 2024 The TP. Membership is an annual membership scheme which offers support and resources to those who have engaged in our Industry Sessions, training courses and networking sessions. A community of physical production industry freelancers - from trainees to HoD's - who are invested in expert-led training and supportive networking within in the film industry. All details and how to apply here

It’s almost officially Spring and it certainly feels like we are taking a step forward. We are seeing more job alerts and being asked for recommendations for crew which is a great sign. It may still be a while before everything is up and running, but it definitely feels brighter. If you are not working, keep busy – it really helps – and get outside and top your vitamin D doses up now - it will stand you in good stead in the months to come! WHAT WE'VE BEEN UP TO We delivered our 5 day Introduction to Art Department course for Film London’s Equal Access Network last week – working with people looking to transfer from other creative industries. A really great group who were so keen to learn. Thanks to Film London for asking us to work with them on this. We also ran our Petty Cash Buying Course with The Classic Prop Hire Co – always a great day. And we had a first – a presentation of a Tudor kitchen with accompanying music! Thanks to Sara and Joe for all their support. TOP TIP Patrick Rolfe joined us for our Industry Session this month and gave a great piece of advice – Be the master of the step you are in before you step forward again. So, so true. Take your time, observe and learn – a career is a marathon. THINGS WE HAVE BEEN ENJOYING We often talk of how important it is to see UK independent films in cinemas – and now you can do it for free! The BFI is supporting Escape to the Cinema, a platform to promote British films with a limited distribution. You can book to see one film per month for free! So now there are no  excuses…. Graphics Union has been doing an A – Z of stamps on insta! Gorgeous, detailed reference material or just the perfect spot for philatelists! If you are in the market for a new coffee/cold water travel mug – look no further! This one is great – holds more than most, keeps the temperature for up to 7 hours and has a brilliant no spill function – perfect for cars, trains, recce buses, markets  etc. INDUSTRY SESSIONS & COURSES POOR THINGS - PRODUCTION DESIGN - Saturday 13th April 10-11.30 Zoom James Price and Shona Heath have had resounding award success this year for their Production Design on Poor Things. Join us to hear about their very special collaboration. Cost £50 +vat All details and how to join here NETWORKING ZOOM - 17th April 7pm-8pm Zoom Open to all, this is a great opportunity to catch up with industry friends, old and new, ask questions and get some guidance FREE Sign-up here GOOGLE SUITE, MIRO BOARDS AIRTABLE - 23rd, 30th April, 7th May 7.30-8.30pm This is extremely beneficial for sudden responses to schedule and script change, job sharing and for those working across multiple sets and locations. Cost £95+vat. All details and how to apply here OVERVIEW OF THE ART DEPARTMENT - 7th May 10:00-12:30 Zoom Perfect for graduates and New Entrants, this 2 hour session examines all the different job roles and art department teams, how they work together and what you need to succeed in them. We also discuss CVs, portfolios and who to call for work and when. It is full of advice for anyone starting out or wanting more information. Cost £125+vat  All details and how to apply here INTRODUCTION TO SET DECORATING - 14th May 10:00-12:30 Zoom Are you looking to work in the Set Decorating team on features and HETV dramas? Or would you like to know more about it before you decide where you are best suited? This Introduction to Set Decorating session will help answer your questions. Perfect for graduates and New Entrants. Cost £125+vat.  All details and how to apply here ONE TO ONE CAREER SESSIONS - BOOK A SLOT “These sessions are like a secret guidebook – all the stuff that you need to know but no-one ever tells you.” This one hour session looks at where you want to be in the film and television drama industries and what you need to do to get there. We look at your CV to make sure it is industry focussed and then identify who you need to get it to and when. Cost £150+vat.  All details and how to apply here MENTORING NETWORK May 2024 - Applications are now open! The TP. Mentoring Network is a modular programme for people coming into, or moving up a grade in, physical production departments. It provides a range of information, workshops and one to one sessions to ensure mentees are industry-ready and armed with the right contacts and knowledge to progress their career in Feature Film and HETV. Cost £275 +vat Details here

ONE DAY Industry Session - Saturday 9th March 10-11.30 Zoom One Day has quickly become a TV classic, garnering some of the best critical acclaim in years - 5 stars across the board. If you have been enjoying the phenomenon of Emma and Dexter and want to learn about the challenges of designing episodic television, spanning 2 decades, come and meet One Day's Production Designer Patrick Rolfe at our next Saturday morning Industry Session. Patrick is one of the industry’s leading Production Designers with nearly 30 years of working in the Art Department on a wide range of feature films and tv dramas. His credits include One Day, The Swimmers, Four Weddings and a Funeral (2019) and Yesterday. All details and how to sign up here TOP TIP Put the effort in now to get ready for work – production levels are  picking up; make the most of having time to get prepared so you are ready to go when the call comes. Sort your kit, service your car, go to the dentist, freeze batch cooked food. It really does make a difference. THINGS WE HAVE BEEN ENJOYING Awards season is well and truly up on us and the BAFTAS certainly showed that cinema is thriving. Great to see so much UK talent celebrated at all of the award shows so far – long may it continue! BSC Expo – it’s always good to see what’s new in camera and a reminder of the challenges and issues on set departments face. One panel focused on working with the art department, with DPs, operators and gaffers acknowledging the enormous input of the design teams. Always good to hear departments acknowledging and celebrating other departments work. Knoops hot chocolate. Late to this because so few hot chocolates are actually any good. But these! If you like hot chocolate, this is well worth the excursion! Especially during this weather. COURSES KEEPING TRAINING COSTS LOW We are conscious that everyone is operating in challenging financial times, which is why we have ensured that all of Talking Point courses are eligible for ScreenSkills bursaries. If your application is successful, you can get up to 80% of the course fees back. This makes a significant difference. The application form is here - please allow 4 weeks for it to be processed. CV, PORTFOLIO & NETWORKING - 29th February 10:00-11:30 Zoom Suitable for new entrants, graduates and anyone in need of a refresher! This is the time to get prepped, tidy up your CV and Portfolio and engage in networking opportunities as possible. Cost £30+vat Sign-up here FILMBASE - UPDATE ON THE INDUSTRY - Friday 1st March 13:15-13:45 Zoom Join Kathy Heaser and Helen Johnson to discuss, 'Why is it still so quiet?', 'When is it going to get busy?' And most importantly, 'How long are we going to be waiting?' Discussing all the issues that could be causing the slow pace in the industry at the moment, and what to potentially expect for the coming months. All details and how to join here PROPS COURSE - Applications Open - Deadline 1st March We are running our renowned Props Course again in April. The course covers everything you need to know to start successfully as a trainee in the Props team. This is a modular programme, with the workshops taking place on Zoom and finishing with a full-day workshop session. Cost £425 + VAT Details here Deadline 1st March INTRODUCTION TO SET DECORATING - 5th March 10:00-12:30 Zoom Are you looking to work in the Set Decorating team on features and HETV dramas? Or would you like to know more about it before you decide where you are best suited? This Introduction to Set Decorating session will help answer your questions. Perfect for graduates and New Entrants. Cost £125+vat.  All details and how to apply here PETTY CASH BUYING at CLASSIC PROP HIRE CO - 19th March 09:00-17:30 One of our most popular workshops, based at Classic Prop Hire, is the perfect starting point for anyone wanting to work as a Junior Petty Cash Buyers on feature films and HETV dramas. Whether you are looking to move into the role, or have done so recently, this workshop will answer your questions and give you an opportunity to practice your skills. Cost £225+vat. All details and how to apply here OVERVIEW OF THE ART DEPARTMENT - 27th March 10:00-12:30 Zoom Perfect for graduates and New Entrants, this 2 hour session examines all the different job roles and art department teams, how they work together and what you need to succeed in them. We also discuss CVs, portfolios and who to call for work and when. It is full of advice for anyone starting out or wanting more information. Cost £125+vat  All details and how to apply here ONE TO ONE CAREER SESSIONS - BOOK A SLOT “These sessions are like a secret guidebook – all the stuff that you need to know but no-one ever tells you.” This one hour session looks at where you want to be in the film and television drama industries and what you need to do to get there. We look at your CV to make sure it is industry focussed and then identify who you need to get it to and when. Cost £150+vat.  All details and how to apply here

WHAT WE'VE BEEN UP TO We regularly hold our Talking Point Industry Sessions on Zoom on Saturday mornings which are a brilliant opportunity to hear from the most established and experienced industry professionals. They are not just for trainees and juniors; they are open to everyone in the industry who is interested in learning from the very best and investing in their own professional development. You get to listen and examine their work but you are also invited to ask questions. This ensures the Session is as meaningful for you as possible. And you can network (either via the chat or use the opportunity as a hook for future real-life events). It’s a great way to start the weekend and we started the year with two amazing Industry Sessions in January... SFX Our first guest was SFX Supervisor and 2nd Unit Director Chris Corbould, who talked us through some of the amazing effect sequences used in Inception, No Time to Die and The Dark Knight. He explained how his department collaborated with the art department in each production and the level of detail that is required to create these exceptional shots. It was breath taking and mind boggling in so many ways and an amazing insight into this world, particularly as Chris was so generous and candid in sharing his experiences. WONKA We were then joined by Set Decorator Lee Sandales looking at his work on Wonka. There is so much intricate detail and hard work in these sets and it was fascinating to hear how the chocolates, cherry blossom tree and Galleries were brought to life. The session was as uplifting and joyous as the film. Thanks again to Lee for joining us and being so generous with his time and insights. Our next Industry Sessions programme is launching soon.... Architects into Film We recently wrapped up our Architects into the Art Dept course, with a networking brunch at the BFI. Participants spent time with established industry professionals who looked at their portfolios and course work, giving their feedback and guidance. Huge thanks to all of them. This group of new assistants not only have the technical drawing skills but are also now fully aware of how the industry works, how the art department teams collaborate and what will be expected of them on a film production. They also come with funding for paid placements on features that are paying into the Skills Fund. Definitely something for Supervising Art Directors to bear in mind when crewing up! We wish them all the very best with next steps and look forward to seeing them out there soon. TOP TIP Read and acknowledge emails! Yes, WhatsApp is quick and easy but people are still sending emails.  Check your inbox and check your junk folder! And if someone has sent you information, offered feedback or a suggestion, acknowledge that you have received it. Don’t give them extra work having to chase your response. THINGS WE HAVE BEEN ENJOYING The Films. So many films to watch and catch up on and this does feel like a bumper year. Too many good ones to list but a great time to see as many as we all can – and preferably at a cinema, where they are intended to be seen. We need to support cinemas more than ever and this is the ideal time. One of our mentees Alberto Achar (Petty Cash Buyer) does an annual commentary on the award season, looking at who he thinks will win and who should win. Always worth a look to see if you agree. Every year we all intend to watch more films, read more books, go and see more art. Director Steven Soderbergh compiles a list of everything he consumes each year – it may make you feel slightly inadequate, or not, but it’s an interesting read. COURSES COURSE FEES & BURSARIES After much thought and deliberation, we have made small increases to the cost of our courses. The Industry Sessions will remain the same. We have been mindful of the pressures and extenuating circumstances freelancers have faced over the past 3 years and have held our prices during this time. We have also run several Industry Sessions at subsidised costs to enable our training to be accessible to all. The good news is that we have secured ALL of our training courses and sessions to be eligible for bursaries from ScreenSkills. Therefore, if you need extra and continued training to help you secure work please do look at applying for a bursary - if your application is successful, it will cover up to 80% of the course costs and travel and accommodation from outside London. Bear in mind, the application process can take up to 4 weeks. PETTY CASH BUYING at CLASSIC PROP HIRE CO - 19th March 09:00-17:30 One of our most popular workshops, based at Classic Prop Hire, is the perfect starting point for anyone wanting to work as a Junior Petty Cash Buyers on feature films and HETV dramas. Whether you are looking to move into the role, or have done so recently, this workshop will answer your questions and give you an opportunity to practice your skills. Cost £225+vat. All details and how to apply here Deadline 16th February PROPS COURSE - Applications Open - Deadline 1st March We are running our renowned Props Course again in April. The course covers everything you need to know to start successfully in the Props team. This is a modular programme, with the workshops taking place on Zoom and finishing with a full-day workshop session. Cost £425 + VAT Details here Deadline 1st March INTRODUCTION TO SET DECORATING - 12th March 10:00-12:30 Zoom Are you looking to work in the Set Decorating team on features and HETV dramas? Or would you like to know more about it before you decide where you are best suited? This Introduction to Set Decorating session will help answer your questions. Perfect for graduates and New Entrants. Cost £125+vat.  All details and how to apply here OVERVIEW OF THE ART DEPARTMENT - 27th March 10:00-12:30 Zoom Perfect for graduates and New Entrants, this 2 hour session examines all the different job roles and art department teams, how they work together and what you need to succeed in them. We also discuss CVs, portfolios and who to call for work and when. It is full of advice for anyone starting out or wanting more information. Cost £125+vat  All details and how to apply here ONE TO ONE CAREER SESSIONS - BOOK A SLOT “These sessions are like a secret guidebook – all the stuff that you need to know but no-one ever tells you.” This one hour session looks at where you want to be in the film and television drama industries and what you need to do to get there. We look at your CV to make sure it is industry focussed and then identify who you need to get it to and when. Cost £150+vat.  All details and how to apply here

ScreenSkills funded programmes for new entrants We have been busy working with two groups of new-to-the industry freelancers, all looking to get into art department positions. We have been looking at what working in the industry is like, how it is structured, different job roles, CVs and portfolios and what you need to do to succeed. These courses are funded by ScreenSkills and come with some paid placements on HETV dramas and feature films shooting in 2024. If you are crewing up and interested in trainees who can hit the ground running and come with up to 10 weeks salary payment, let us know! Props Course The Props Course wrapped last week after 6 weeks of looking at everything you need to know to make a successful start in dressing, standing by and stores. Fun was had with kits, goldfinger, dirtydown and fablon – huge thanks to everyone who was involved and has supported this training. Prop Master Ben Johnson Petty Cash Buying at Classic Prop Hire Company We ran another successful Petty Cash Buyers course at Classic Prop Hire Company – lots of information about the role and a deep dive into Classic, Seasons Textiles and Number Eight. Huge thanks as always to everyone at Classic Prop Hire Company for their guidance, expertise and support. Photo credit: Classic Prop Hire Company by Molly Tebbutt TOP TIP If someone sends you information – production documents, course information, event details, advice or anything at all, acknowledge it! Say thank you and that you have received it. It takes a moment to be polite – always good- and lets them know that you have it. A simple action that carries a lot of weight! THINGS WE HAVE BEEN ENJOYING Well, it’s December so we can officially start eating festive treats. Let’s start with Waitrose mince pies with the crumble topping…..this could be a contender for best mince pie ever……(we acknowledge that this could be contentious!) 174hz sound frequency app – this app plays music aimed at getting you to a relaxed and calm state. This will certainly be useful as we head to weeks of potential frazzle! It can also be used for pain relief and aids better sleep…..win win. Fresh air. Getting out and about in the daylight; we are Autumn fans! And it’s good to stock up on Vitamin D in readiness for the festive season and New Year. It looks like it will be significantly busier…so a good way of preparing yourself for working in the winter months. TRAINING COSTS - BURSARIES All of our sessions and courses are eligible for bursaries from ScreenSkills. If your application is successful, it will cover up to 80% of the course costs and travel and accommodation from outside London. Please bear in mind that the application process takes up to 4 weeks (sometimes longer) and we will need your payment prior to the course delivery. NETWORKING EVENTS NETWORKING ZOOM - Wednesday 13th December 7.30-8.30pm Our last one of the year! Join, share news, stay connected! Everyone welcome. Sign-up here TP MEMBERSHIP Festive Drinks- Saturday 9th December 3-5pm Looking forward to seeing our Membership cohort for some Christmas cocktails at our last meet up of the year! INDUSTRY SESSIONS WORKING WITH SFX with Chris Corbould - 13th January 10:00-11:30 Zoom Chris Corbould has been one of the industry’s leading SFX Supervisors with credits including No Time to Die, Star Wars (eps7 and 8), Spectre, Skyfall, The Dark Knight, Inception……the list goes on! Chris will be joining us to talk about his career, SFX and how the SFX teams collaborate with the Art Department teams to create those incredible sequences. Cost £50 +vat 25% discount for TP Members Bursaries available from ScreenSkills All details and how to apply here WONKA with Lee Sandales- 27th January 10:00-11:30 Zoom Lee Sandales is one of the industry’s leading Set Decorators, with credits including Wicked, The Batman, Star Wars – episode7, Rogue One and 1917. Lee will be joining us to talk about how he approaches his work, his career from being an Art Dept Asst to Head of Department and his experiences on Wonka. Cost £50 +vat 25% discount for TP Members Bursaries available from ScreenSkills All details and how to apply here COURSES OVERVIEW OF THE ART DEPARTMENT - 19th December 10:00-12:30 Zoom Perfect for graduates and New Entrants, this 2 hour session examines all the different job roles and art department teams, how they work together and what you need to succeed in them. We also discuss CVs, portfolios and who to call for work and when. It is full of advice for anyone starting out or wanting more information. Cost £75+vat All details and how to apply here INTRODUCTION TO SET DECORATING - 16th January 10:00-12:30 Zoom Are you looking to work in the Set Decorating team on features and HETV dramas? Or would you like to know more about it before you decide where you are best suited? This Introduction to Set Decorating session will help answer your questions. Perfect for graduates and New Entrants. Cost £75+vat. All details and how to apply here ONE TO ONE CAREER SESSIONS - BOOK A SLOT! “These sessions are like a secret guidebook – all the stuff that you need to know but no-one ever tells you.” This one hour session looks at where you want to be in the film and television drama industries and what you need to do to get there. We look at your CV to make sure it is industry focussed and then identify who you need to get it to and when. Cost £125+vat. All details and how to apply here

It seems so much has been going on over the last month whilst we waited for positive news from SAG-AFTRA. And now it has finally come! There will hopefully be a long-awaited gear change over the next few weeks. Here is what we’ve been up to and what is to come. WHAT WE'VE BEEN UP TO Set Dec Summit The feedback we have had from the Set Decorating Summit has been overwhelmingly positive. It was so good to see so many people there, new and old friends, and have a chance to listen, learn and catch up. And eat tasty food courtesy of Gourmet Location Catering (if anyone is looking for a film caterer!) Feedback and resources from the event have been sent out this week. If you didn’t feedback yet, please do – all experiences are well received! Portfolio Session - We had a great Portfolio Session on Saturday, where 12 people had a chance to get one to one feedback on their work. Huge thanks to Senior Art Director, Rod McLean and Senior Set Decorator, Kathryn Pyle who were both informative and inspirational in equal measure. We will be holding another of these sessions in the New Year – dates to come soon! TRAINING COSTS - BURSARIES All of our sessions and courses are eligible for bursaries from ScreenSkills. If your application is successful, it will cover up to 80% of the course costs and travel and accommodation from outside London. Please bear in mind that the application process takes up to 4 weeks (sometimes longer) and we will need your payment prior to the course delivery. TOP TIP Make the time count – as productions come back, crew will need to be ready - so make this last bit of quiet time count. Get those CVs and portfolios in good shape, be ready to start cold-calling and talking to people, sort your kit out and clear some space on your inbox, hard-drive and drop box…..do all the boring jobs now and then you are good to go! THINGS WE HAVE BEEN ENJOYING Community Concentration Sessions – perfect for those times when you have task based projects to complete (or actually even jobs at home) but just can’t get started or keep putting them off. Or procrastination looms! This is a 3hr silent zoom session – you keep your camera on but sound muted and get to work. It’s basically a way of getting on with it. Does help, especially for those mundane jobs you put off forever. And if you get really stuck and need project management help, you can get support too. Haramaki – the seasons have shifted and it’s certainly getting colder. So time to get the haramaki out! For those who aren’t familiar, these are Japanese cotton core warmers – you wear them under your clothes and they trap the warmth of your body in. Perfect for draughty workshops, yoga, getting warm after swimming and general cold days. Japanese culture believes that keeping the kidneys warm furthers well-being and prevents colds…..definitely worth a try! We have a discount code – TALK23 which gets 10% off. Parkin and all things ginger spiced cake – tis the season! If you are also a fan, check out www.horshamgingerbread.co.uk and https://www.grasmeregingerbread.co.uk ARCHITECTS into ART DEPT IN FILM - November / December Are you a qualified architect or architect graduate looking to transfer your skills into the film industry? This programme will help you use your existing skills in a new, creative environment. There are 4 online sessions looking at all aspects of working in the art department on a feature film, a chance to engage with established freelancers and a networking brunch with art department professionals. A FREE programme, supported by the ScreenSkills Film Skills Fund with contributions from UK film productions. Cost FREE All details and how to apply here Deadline 15th November! COURSES PETTY CASH BUYING at CLASSIC PROP HIRE CO - 1st December 09:00-17:30 One of our most popular workshops, based at Classic Prop Hire, is the perfect starting point for anyone wanting to work as a Junior Petty Cash Buyers on feature films and HETV dramas. Whether you are looking to move into the role, or have done so recently, this workshop will answer your questions and give you an opportunity to practice your skills. Cost £175+vat. All details and how to apply here OVERVIEW OF THE ART DEPARTMENT - 19th December 10:00-12:30 Zoom Perfect for graduates and New Entrants, this 2 hour session examines all the different job roles and art department teams, how they work together and what you need to succeed in them. We also discuss CVs, portfolios and who to call for work and when. It is full of advice for anyone starting out or wanting more information. Cost £75+vat All details and how to apply here INTRODUCTION TO SET DECORATING - 16th January 10:00-12:30 Zoom Are you looking to work in the Set Decorating team on features and HETV dramas? Or would you like to know more about it before you decide where you are best suited? This Introduction to Set Decorating session will help answer your questions. Perfect for graduates and New Entrants. Cost £75+vat. All details and how to apply here ONE TO ONE CAREER SESSIONS - BOOK A SLOT “These sessions are like a secret guidebook – all the stuff that you need to know but no-one ever tells you.” This one hour session looks at where you want to be in the film and television drama industries and what you need to do to get there. We look at your CV to make sure it is industry focussed and then identify who you need to get it to and when. Cost £125+vat. All details and how to apply here INDUSTRY SESSIONS WORKING WITH SFX with Chris Corbould - 13th January 10:00-11:30 Zoom Chris has been one of the industry’s leading SFX Supervisors with credits including Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, No Time to Die, Star Wars (eps 6 and 7), Spectre, Skyfall, The Dark Knight Rises, Inception……the list goes on! Chris will be joining us to talk about his career, SFX and how the SFX teams collaborate with the Art Department teams to create those incredible sequences. Full details and applications to be released next week.

It’s starting to feel more Autumnal now – and the light chill in the air certainly matches the recent mood and temperature of the industry. Although, it is certainly cheering to finally see some positive steps forward from the WGA and AMPTP. Now, fingers crossed that the SAG AFTRA negotiations follow suit and productions can start coming back. That may still take a little time – so do keep taking up any opportunity to reach out and network – connection to others is so critical in the downtimes. It really does make a huge difference. WHAT WE'VE BEEN UP TO We have enjoyed some great industry sessions with Art Director, Rod McLean and Graphic Designer, Annie Atkins and another successful Petty Cash Buying Course at The Classic Prop Hire Company . TRAINING COSTS - BURSARIES All of our sessions and courses are eligible for bursaries from ScreenSkills. If your application is successful, it will cover up to 80% of the course costs and travel and accommodation from outside London. Please bear in mind that the application process takes up to 4 weeks (sometimes longer) and we will need your payment prior to the course delivery. TOP TIP Keep Busy. It’s hard at the moment – especially when it’s been so long with no work - but try to use the time to get ready; declutter your kit, stock up, tweak that CV, network, comment on people’s insta posts and engage! People really do notice and remember. THINGS WE HAVE BEEN ENJOYING Our Networking Drinks! Such a great night catching up with new mentees and industry friends. The London Centre has enormous scale models of London, walking tours of London architecture and models of upcoming planning permission – great to get a sense of the architecture of London and how the space of the city is evolving. The onset of Autumn – yes warm weather is lovely, sunshine is life but London in 30 degree heat not so much. Welcome to the rain and breeze – it heralds stomping walks through crunchy leaves, cosying up with hot chocolates, baked potatoes and lots of good TV! SET DECORATING SUMMIT - 14th October 09:30-17:30 Hosted by Filmbase, Talking Point and The Classic Prop Hire Company for all Set Decorating Crew. A day of collaboration and discussion on key issues such as rates, the strikes, department hierarchy and roles, flexible working, sustainability, bullying and harassment among others. Details and tickets here INDUSTRY SESSIONS ZOOM NETWORKING - Tuesday 10th October 7pm-8pm Everyone welcome. Come and say hello and stay connected! Register here. PORTFOLIO SESSION - Saturday 4th November 10:00 - 13:00 BRIGHTON An opportunity to get your portfolio up-to-date and showcase your skills and talent with advice and guidance from leading industry practitioners! Senior Art Director, Rod McLean and Senior Set Decorator, Kathryn Pyle will lead the session and give one-to-one advice and guidance. Cost £35 + vat . All Details and how to apply here COURSES & WORKSHOPS OVERVIEW OF THE ART DEPARTMENT - 4th October 10:00-12:30 Zoom Perfect for graduates and New Entrants, this 2 hour session examines all the different job roles and art department teams, how they work together and what you need to succeed in them. We also discuss CVs, portfolios and who to call for work and when. It is full of advice for anyone starting out or wanting more information. Cost £75+vat All details and how to apply here INTRODUCTION TO SET DECORATING - 2nd November 10:00-12:30 Zoom Are you looking to work in the Set Decorating team on features and HETV dramas? Or would you like to know more about it before you decide where you are best suited? This Introduction to Set Decorating session will help answer your questions. Perfect for graduates and New Entrants. Cost £75+vat. All details and how to apply here PETTY CASH BUYING at CLASSIC PROP HIRE CO - 1st December 09:00-17:30 This full-day day workshop, based at Classic Prop Hire, is the perfect starting point for anyone wanting to work as a Junior Petty Cash Buyers on feature films and HETV dramas. Whether you are looking to move into the role, or have done so recently, this workshop will answer your questions and give you an opportunity to practice your skills. Cost £175+vat. All details and how to apply here ONE TO ONE CAREER SESSIONS - BOOK A SLOT “These sessions are like a secret guidebook – all the stuff that you need to know but no-one ever tells you.” This one hour session looks at where you want to be in the film and television drama industries and what you need to do to get there. We look at your CV to make sure it is industry focussed and then identify who you need to get it to and when. Cost £125+vat. All details and how to apply here

WHAT WE'VE BEEN UP TO We’ve been busy developing and confirming a new slate of courses for the Autumn (more on those soon hopefully!) and trying to see as many of our mentees, trainees and juniors as possible. We’ve also had some great catch ups with senior freelancers and HoDs – seeing people over the summer has been one of the very few glimmers of silver lining amidst the current strike situation. From all of these meetings, we are acutely aware of how challenging this shutdown is. We will continue hosting our networking events online and in real life as often as we can - our community is important and the core of everything we do. We are always mindful of that and very keen to support the people we work alongside. Coming onto a zoom call for an hour to say hello to friends, new and old, can really help – so if you would like to join, please do come along to the next one. TRAINING COSTS - BURSARIES All of our sessions and courses are eligible for bursaries from ScreenSkills. If your application is successful, it will cover up to 80% of the course costs and travel and accommodation from outside London. Please bear in mind that the application process takes up to 4 weeks (sometimes longer) and we will need your payment prior to the course delivery. TOP TIP More of a call to action this month and a chance to change and shape the industry we work in. And work hard for. There are two online documents circulating that you will have seen on social media but everyone should be aware of: the petition to government to create an income support scheme for freelancers affected by the strikes the requested input for the government inquiry examining the challenges faced by UK feature film and HETV drama. They are looking at what needs to be done to maintain and enhance the UK as a global production destination and how the independent sector can be better supported. You can submit evidence until the 19th September. Opportunities for freelancers to be heard are rare – so when we have the chance to use our voice, we need to do so…..please use the links above to add your thoughts. THINGS WE HAVE BEEN ENJOYING The Christmas episode of The Bear (S2) was unquestionably one of the most stressful but incredible pieces of television drama ever produced. Will be hard to top that one….(although The Morning Show is back in September…..!) Summer reading…..reading feels different in the summer doesn’t it? Maybe because we make/have time….although the pile of guilt inducing books to read hasn’t diminished….let us know what we should be adding to it though! The Film and TV Charity has released more funding for those facing financial hardship. Please make use of these grants if you need them. There are also lots of financial resources available on their site. INDUSTRY SESSIONS NETWORKING ZOOM FOR ALL - Tuesday 5th September 7:00-8:00pm Come and say hello and stay connected. Register here ART DEPARTMENT BREAKDOWN - BLADE RUNNER 2049 - 9th Sept 10:00-11:30 Rod McLean, one of the UK’s most established and experienced Art Directors, will look at how the Art Department, Props, Set Decorating, Lighting, SFX, Vehicles, Stunts and Construction all worked together to create a set and environment that worked for all of these departments and enabled them to achieve what was scripted. Via Zoom. Cost £50+vat All details and how to apply here GRAPHICS for FILM - Saturday 16th September 10:00 – 11:30 zoom Annie Atkins is a Dublin-based graphic designer for the film industry who has created graphic props and set-pieces for multiple Oscar-winning-and-nominated films. Her credits include the animated feature The Boxtrolls, Stephen Spielberg’s Bridge of Spies and West Side Story, and Wes Anderson’s Isle of Dogs, French Dispatch, and The Grand Budapest Hotel – the latter went on to win the Academy Award for Best Production Design. Cost £50+vat. Full details and how to apply here COURSES & WORKSHOPS OVERVIEW OF THE ART DEPARTMENT - 7th September 10:00-12:30 Zoom Perfect for graduates and New Entrants, this 2 hour session examines all the different job roles and art department teams, how they work together and what you need to succeed in them. We also discuss CVs, portfolios and who to call for work and when. It is full of advice for anyone starting out or wanting more information. Cost £75+vat All details and how to apply here INTRODUCTION TO SET DECORATING - 28th September 10:00-12:30 Zoom Are you looking to work in the Set Decorating team on features and HETV dramas? Or would you like to know more about it before you decide where you are best suited? This Introduction to Set Decorating session will help answer your questions. Perfect for graduates and New Entrants. Cost £75+vat. All details and how to apply here ONE TO ONE CAREER SESSIONS - BOOK A SLOT “These sessions are like a secret guidebook – all the stuff that you need to know but no-one ever tells you.” This one hour session looks at where you want to be in the film and television drama industries and what you need to do to get there. We look at your CV to make sure it is industry focussed and then identify who you need to get it to and when. Cost £125+vat. All details and how to apply here

WHAT WE'VE BEEN UP TO Our TP Industry Session on Designing Barbie was nothing short of pure joy! Sarah and Katie were both incredibly generous with what they shared and discussed and it was amazing to see their creative process from script to screen. That and all the pink made for a very upbeat and inspirational start to the weekend – huge thanks to them again. TRAINING COSTS - BURSARIES All of our sessions and courses are eligible for bursaries from ScreenSkills. If your application is successful, it will cover up to 80% of the course costs and travel and accommodation from outside London. Please bear in mind that the application process takes up to 4 weeks (sometimes longer) and we will need your payment prior to the course delivery. TOP TIP Get organised! If you're not working, now is the time to get organised. Declutter your inbox, work on your portfolio, update your database of contacts, reach out to people and catch up, sort your reference photos and keep learning. Production will come back and you will be busy again - use this time to get fully prepped. THINGS WE HAVE BEEN ENJOYING Barbie. Obviously. No words needed. But a note to acknowledge what it, Oppenheimer and Mission Impossible : Dead Reckoning have all done for the cinema in the last 2 weeks. Let’s hope this is the start of a proper resurgence. Tippex Mini Pocket Mouse – these are our favourite bit of office stationery at the moment. Perfect for those who don’t like scribbles in notebooks and diaries – and they work every single time, even when the document is on a wall. Love! (and currently on a 2 for 1 offer here) Anya Hindmarch has created new ice cream flavours for The Ice Cream Project, at Anya Village until 27th August. Your go to parlour for Branston Pickle, Petits Pois, Warburton’s Crumpets and Ribena…… INDUSTRY SESSIONS GRAPHICS for FILM - Saturday 16th September 10:00 – 11:30 zoom Annie Atkins is a Dublin-based graphic designer for the film industry who has created graphic props and set-pieces for multiple Oscar-winning-and-nominated films. Her credits include the animated feature The Boxtrolls, Stephen Spielberg’s Bridge of Spies and West Side Story, and Wes Anderson’s Isle of Dogs, French Dispatch, and The Grand Budapest Hotel – the latter went on to win the Academy Award for Best Production Design. Cost £50+vat. Full details and how to apply here COURSES & WORKSHOPS MANAGING PERSONAL FINANACE - 15th August 7.30pm-8.30pm Zoom If you would like information on savings, pensions, tax and how to manage freelancing long term, this TP Session is for you! Cost £20+VAT. All details and how to apply here OVERVIEW OF THE ART DEPARTMENT - 7th September 10:00-12:30 Zoom Perfect for graduates and New Entrants, this 2 hour session examines all the different job roles and art department teams, how they work together and what you need to succeed in them. We also discuss CVs, portfolios and who to call for work and when. It is full of advice for anyone starting out or wanting more information. Cost £75+vat All details and how to apply here PETTY CASH BUYING at CLASSIC PROP HIRE CO - 15th September 09:00-17:30 This full-day day workshop, based at Classic Prop Hire, is the perfect starting point for anyone wanting to work as a Junior Petty Cash Buyers on feature films and HETV dramas. Whether you are looking to move into the role, or have done so recently, this workshop will answer your questions and give you an opportunity to practice your skills. Cost £175+vat. All details and how to apply here INTRODUCTION TO SET DECORATING - 28th September 10:00-12:30 Zoom Are you looking to work in the Set Decorating team on features and HETV dramas? Or would you like to know more about it before you decide where you are best suited? This Introduction to Set Decorating session will help answer your questions. Perfect for graduates and New Entrants. Cost £75+vat. All details and how to apply here PROPS TRAINING COURSE - OCTOBER/NOVEMBER Applications are nowl open for this 6 part training course looking at all aspects of working in the Props department on a large scale production. The course will now start October, 5 sessions on Zoom and one workshop day in Brighton. Cost £375+vat Full details and how to apply here ONE TO ONE CAREER SESSIONS - BOOK A SLOT “These sessions are like a secret guidebook – all the stuff that you need to know but no-one ever tells you.” This one hour session looks at where you want to be in the film and television drama industries and what you need to do to get there. We look at your CV to make sure it is industry focussed and then identify who you need to get it to and when. Cost £125+vat. All details and how to apply here

Hope June has been productive/relaxing/Glasto filled! It’s still pretty quiet out there work wise but the next few days will hopefully bring a SAG update and a better sense of where we will be in July/August. If it’s been a struggle financially or mentally, the Film and TV Charity are well placed to help. Please do reach out. WHAT WE'VE BEEN UP TO We had a thoroughly inspirational TP Industry Session with Alison Harvey who took us through her process of set decorating The Crown. Such an impressive amount of detailed work. As one participant noted, " I love the quality and calibre of these sessions. It really is the perfect way to learn from the best in the business." Huge thanks to Ali for joining us, sharing her beautiful work and highlighting such good work practices. INDUSTRY SESSIONS ACTION PROPS BUYING - Saturday 22nd July 10:00 - 11:30 Zoom Lizzie Bravo will be joining us to discuss the role of the Action Props Buyer. She will be talking to us about her journey into this position, the productions she has worked on, the day to day challenges and the skills and knowledge you need to succeed. We will also be looking at her processes for research, budgeting and presenting information to Heads of Department. Cost £50+vat. Full details and how to apply here DESIGNING BARBIE - Saturday 29th July 10:00 – 11:30 zoom Where do you start with designing and set decorating a feature film of Barbie? We will be joined by Production Designer Sarah Greenwood and Set Decorator Katie Spencer who will talk about what drew them to the project in the first place, their design process on this job, the challenges and solutions during prep and the shoot, working with other craft departments and choosing those shades of pink! Cost £50+vat. Full details and how to apply here UPCOMING COURSES & WORKSHOPS INTRODUCTION TO SET DECORATING - Thursday 20th July 10:00-12:30 Zoom Are you looking to work in the Set Decorating team on features and HETV dramas? Or would you like to know more about it before you decide where you are best suited? This Introduction to Set Decorating session will help answer your questions. Perfect for graduates and New Entrants. Cost £75+vat. All details and how to apply here OVERVIEW OF THE ART DEPARTMENT - Thursday 27th July 10:00-12:30 Perfect for graduates and New Entrants, this 2 hour session examines all the different job roles and art department teams, how they work together and what you need to succeed in them. We also discuss CVs, portfolios and who to call for work and when. It is full of advice for anyone starting out or wanting more information. Cost £75+vat All details and how to apply here PROPS TRAINING COURSE - September Applications will open on 10 July for this 6 part training course looking at all aspects of working in the Props department on a large scale production. The course will start in September, 5 sessions on Zoom and one workshop day in Brighton. More info on the website. Full details and how to apply here ONE TO ONE CAREER SESSIONS - BOOK A SLOT “These sessions are like a secret guidebook – all the stuff that you need to know but no-one ever tells you.” This one hour session looks at where you want to be in the film and television drama industries and what you need to do to get there. We look at your CV to make sure it is industry focussed and then identify who you need to get it to and when. Cost £125+vat. All details and how to apply here MENTORING NETWORK - APPLICATIONS CLOSED Thank you to everyone who applied to the Network in this round – it was extremely difficult to shortlist but we are delighted to have a new cohort starting next week…..more on them soon! TOP TIP This month’s top tip is Don’t be Afraid to Ask. You need to ask the questions to get the right information and information is key. Too often, people are anxious about asking – and certainly, you need to think about your question and pick your moment! – but questions are good! Questions help us find out, clarify and prioritise. They help us perform better. So don’t be afraid to ask. THINGS WE HAVE BEEN ENJOYING Best Intentions (BBC) was a powerhouse of performance from Sharon Horgan and Michael Sheen. Very hard subject matter dealt with so sensitively in Jack Thorne’s script, with really well detailed emotional moments. Also great to have the political impact on disability issues highlighted on screen with such finesse. Insta reels can bring much needed moments of uplift, particularly when it’s all horribly relatable – current faves are @jen_and _dawn_tittingabout, @big_fat_greekmother (her teen texts are perfect for those living the teen dream) and @lukehamnett Ferrero Rocher ice cream lollipops. No explanation required.

How is everyone doing? It’s still considerably quieter than usual in the land of large-scale production and possibly will be for some time. The impact of the WGA strike, possible DGA and SAG strikes and personnel changes at some of the studios continue to ripple through our industry, causing some uncertainty. We will know whether negotiations have been successful, and whether the other strikes will take place, towards the end of June. But either way, it will certainly be a quieter summer than we have seen for some time. It can be extremely challenging managing a freelance career in uncertain times - mentally as well as financially. Reach out to people - a friendly chat can be hugely beneficial. The Film and TV charity are also a great help for further advice and guidance. If you’re not working, it is the perfect time to upskill – an obvious one for us – but when productions get greenlit and start to crew up, they will have the pick of the crop. So make sure you are as up to date and knowledgeable as you can be. And network at every opportunity! WHAT WE'VE BEEN UP TO We had a fascinating discussion with Set Decorator Alice Felton (Mickey 17, Cruella, The Favourite) at our most recent TP. Industry Session. The focus was on how Set Decorators work with technical teams, particularly VFX, SFX and Camera. We covered everything from lighting plans to identifying the correct period net curtain for Roger Deakins to create his light and shadow magic. Huge thanks to Alice for being so generous with her knowledge and experiences – as one participant noted afterwards, “that was so meaty!” It really was! UPCOMING COURSES INTRODUCTION TO SET DECORATING - Thursday 8th June 10:-00-12:30 Zoom Are you looking to work in the Set Decorating team on features and HETV dramas? Or would you like to know more about it before you decide where you are best suited? This Introduction to Set Decorating session will help answer your questions. Cost £75+vat. All details and how to apply here SET DECORATING THE CROWN - Saturday 10th June 10- 11:30 Zoom As filming on The Crown has come to an end, we are delighted to be joined by Supervising Set Decorator Alison Harvey who set decorated all 5 seasons of the acclaimed series. Cost £50+vat. Full details and how to apply here OVERVIEW OF THE ART DEPARTMENT - Thursday 15th June 10:00-12:30 Perfect for newcomers, this 2 hour session examines all the different job roles and art department teams, how they work together and what you need to succeed in them. We also discuss CVs, portfolios and who to call for work and when. It is full of advice for anyone starting out or wanting more information. Cost £75+vat All details and how to apply here FLORISTRY WORKSHOP with AMANDA WILLGRAVE - Sat 24th June 07:00-12:30 We will be running a half day workshop with leading Film Florist Amanda Willgrave (Chevalier, The Little Mermaid, Wonka, Cruella) at the London Flower Market. Details here Cost £350 inc VAT eligible for bursaries from ScreenSkills. If your application is successful, it will cover up to 80% of the course costs and travel and accommodation from outside London. TECHNICAL DRAWING with ROD MCLEAN - Sat 1st July Brighton 10:00-12:30 Learning how to prepare or read a technical drawing is a key element for working in all the art department teams – you may not have to create them, but knowing what to look for and finding the relevant information is an important part of the job. Rod McLean is one of the UK’s most established and experienced Art Directors. He has over 35 years experience of working on a wide range of features, with credits including Wicked, Jurassic World: Dominion, Empire of Light and Wonder Woman 1984. Cost £125 +vat Full Details here DESIGNING BARBIE - Saturday 29th July 10:00 – 11:30 zoom Where do you start with designing and set decorating a feature film of Barbie? We will be joined by Production Designer Sarah Greenwood and Set Decorator Katie Spencer who will talk about what drew them to the project in the first place, their design process on this job, the challenges and solutions during prep and the shoot, working with other craft departments and choosing those shades of pink! Cost £50+vat. Full details and how to apply here MENTORING NETWORK - APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN! The current round are meeting their mentors and taking their next steps in the industry. Really looking forward to seeing what they get up to next – and a very special shout out to Chelsea, our graphics mentee, and a big welcome to her new baby Kaylin! Cost £225+vat. All details and how to apply here ONE TO ONE CAREER SESSIONS - BOOK A SLOT “These sessions are like a secret guidebook – all the stuff that you need to know but no-one ever tells you.” This one hour session looks at where you want to be in the film and television drama industries and what you need to do to get there. We look at your CV to make sure it is industry focussed and then identify who you need to get it to and when. Cost £125+vat. All details and how to apply here TRAINING COSTS - BURSARIES All of these courses are eligible for bursaries from ScreenSkills. If your application is successful, it will cover up to 80% of the course costs and travel and accommodation from outside London. It is a great way of meeting costs when you are not working and we are happy to write the reference letters for applicants. We always endeavour to keep out course costs as low as we can. When we can make the courses free, we do so - we want to be as inclusive and easily accessible as we can be. Granted, it’s not always possible - so please do make the most of the industry bursary scheme. TOP TIP During covid, VFX Supervisor Andrew Whitehouse passed on some great advice which is just as resonant now as it was then. Whether it's working on your portfolio, building your contact database, making films, taking photos....it all helps. "Get a daily routine of working going and just make stuff. Don't be too analytical, just keep doing it. Some of it will be good, some less so, but now is the time to do. Reflecting upon it can come later when you're feeling more grounded." THINGS WE HAVE BEEN ENJOYING Congratulations to Justine Triet, the 3rd woman to win the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival with Anatomy of a Fall. Nothing like having Jane Fonda throw your certificate at you as you forget to take it! Florian Gadsby is a ceramicist and watching his reels on insta is the ultimate relaxation tool. His focus is on the process of making a simple bowl or the ritual of using a beautiful mug. He has a book coming out soon too,By My Hands. Solero – the sun is out and is this still the perfect seasonal ice cream? It will take a lot to usurp it….and don’t come at us with your Feasts and Nobbly Bobblys….no competition.

Spring is in the air! Loving the birds in the morning and the lighter evenings but there is a fair amount of uncertainty too. It does still feel quieter out there than it has done in previous year’s. And the WGA strike will certainly be having an impact, particularly for the streamers and studios but for the independent sector too. Time will tell how big and how long that impact will be. But – there are still productions working, there will hopefully be more larger shows being greenlit in summer and if nothing else, it is a gentle reminder that freelance work is not permanent, there are always ups and downs and you do need to save for the downtime. Boring but true. And if you aren’t working – remember that it’s not personal! Lots of people in the same boat – use the time wisely! We have had some amazing sessions and courses this month and are looking forward to some equally exciting ones coming up…. Petty Cash Buying Course at Classic Prop Hire Co. We worked with 10 soon-to-be junior petty cash buyers with the fantastic team at Classic Prop Hire Co. this week. They toured Classic, Number 8 and Seasons, learnt about the role and it’s responsibilities, financial paperwork and did a practical buying exercise. Looking forward to hearing how they get on with next steps. Photos Molly Tebutt INDUSTRY SESSIONS We ran two Industry sessions in April – Production Buying on Location, live from Morocco with Eva Onsrud and Molly Blake and Location Intentions with Matt Kerly. Both were so informative and inspirational – huge thanks as always to our guest speakers. UPCOMING COURSES INTRODUCTION TO SET DECORATING - Thursday 8th June 10:-00-12:30 Zoom Are you looking to work in the Set Decorating team on features and HETV dramas? Or would you like to know more about it before you decide where you are best suited? This Introduction to Set Decorating session will help answer your questions. Cost £75+vat. All details and how to apply here SET DECORATING THE CROWN - Saturday 10th June 10- 11:30 Zoom As filming on The Crown has come to an end, we are delighted to be joined by Supervising Set Decorator Alison Harvey who set decorated all 6 seasons of the acclaimed series. Cost £50+vat. Full details and how to apply here OVERVIEW OF THE ART DEPARTMENT - Thursday 15th June 10:00-12:30 Perfect for newcomers, this 2 hour session examines all the different job roles and art department teams, how they work together and what you need to succeed in them. We also discuss CVs, portfolios and who to call for work and when. It is full of advice for anyone starting out or wanting more information. Cost £75+vat All details and how to apply here FLORISTRY WORKSHOP with AMANDA WILLGRAVE - Sat 24th June tbc 07:00-12:30 We will be running a half day workshop with leading Film Florist Amanda Willgrave (Chevalier, The Little Mermaid, Wonka, Cruella) at the London Flower Market. Cost and full details to be released soon. Spaces will be limited. Register your interest: andrea@talkingpointfilm.co.uk DESIGNING BARBIE - Saturday 29th July 10:00 – 11:30 zoom Where do you start with designing and set decorating a feature film of Barbie? We will be joined by Production Designer Sarah Greenwood and Set Decorator Katie Spencer who will talk about what drew them to the project in the first place, their design process on this job, the challenges and solutions during prep and the shoot, working with other craft departments and choosing those shades of pink! Cost £55+vat. Full details and how to apply here ONE TO ONE CAREER SESSIONS - BOOK A SLOT “These sessions are like a secret guidebook – all the stuff that you need to know but no-one ever tells you.” This one hour session looks at where you want to be in the film and television drama industries and what you need to do to get there. We look at your CV to make sure it is industry focussed and then identify who you need to get it to and when. Cost £125+vat. All details and how to apply here TOP TIP Juliet Stevenson said something recently that resonated with us and some of our participants….”always listen to criticism but don’t let it destroy you.” Such good advice – sometimes it’s constructive and helpful, other times it’s not - so don’t carry it with you. You don’t have to! THINGS WE HAVE BEEN ENJOYING Weightless by Marcuni Union – we read some research recently outlining how this piece actively lowers cortisol levels, so a good one to have access to at the end of one of those days. Drawing is free is a great online art platform – each Monday morning and evening they chose a track, a pose and you draw for an hour. Great for practicing those rusty drawing skills or starting from scratch. Wild bluebells are so beautiful and emerging everywhere but are short lived. So head to a wood or park near you and be awed by nature.