Newcastle-based creative industry development agency Northern Film & Media has struck a partnership with Channel 4 to launch a pilot programme designed to enable artists to develop narrative work after securing Arts Council funding.

The Artist’s Cut will see Northern Film & Media partner with Channel 4 to programme a series of developmental workshops aimed at producing two narrative pieces. Inspired by the recent success of films by directors such as Steve McQueen, Sam Taylor-Wood and Gillian Wearing, the initiative will be delivered with a view to developing longer form film or television propositions. 

Participants will undertake an intensive mentoring programme covering storytelling, cinematography, casting, directing, distribution and marketing strategies. Confirmed contributors include leading script editor and former Film4 head of development Kate Leys (The Full Monty, Four Weddings and a Funeral, Trainspotting), Channel 4 commissioning editor for arts Tabitha Jackson, producer Samm Haillay (Better Things, Self-Made) and Susie Wright, Channel 4’s media project manager for creative diversity.

The Artist’s Cut follows in the footsteps of Film4ward – the Northern Film & Media and Film4 film talent development initiative that has resulted in four North East filmmakers producing feature packages. The Artist’s Cut will provide an opportunity for North East artists to break into film and is designed to build on Channel 4’s creative diversity drive.

Northern Film & Media previously invested in Self Made – the directorial debut from Turner Prize winning artist Gillian Wearing. Self Made was shot in the North East and co-produced by Newcastle-based indie Third Films. The film was released theatrically and has shown at leading contemporary art galleries across the globe. 

For more information and to apply