About

My path into film exhibition started in 2019. I had become jaded and felt stiffled in my previous career. I wanted to engage in work that allowed me to express myself in more creative ways.

In the time between jobs, I would attend film screenings and local festivals but it was not lost on me that it was not easy to view films that I could relate to in both mainstream and independent cinemas. On the occasion I did find something suitable, said event would often take place during times that lots of working people would not be able to attend and in spaces that were not always welcoming to all. I felt frustrated by the fact that this exhibition practice ensured that art continued to be accessed by the same types of people who historically, have always been catered to.

My curiosity was piqued and I wanted to understand the journey a film takes before it reaches audiences and learn about who makes the decision to screen particular films. I pondered on the wider access barriers for audiences.

I began volunteering at film festivals as a way of answering the questions I had, and took advantage of the added perk of watching lots of films.

The excitement of the festival environment lit the fire and solidified my interest in the exhibition space.

My journey continued when I obtained a place at the Barbican via the Independent Cinema Office’s (ICO) FEDS scheme which supports new entrants into the industry.

My work supporting the continuation of the Relaxed Screenings and development of Senior Community Screenings allowed me to look at audience development and the removal of barriers from a different angle.

I am currently undertaking project work by programming films / planning events that lean into key interests of mine and increase community engagement with film, whilst reflecting on the human condition. Blog writing in my mind, is another, yet more personal medium through which I can explore such interests and indulge in my own curiosity.

The idea of using the exhibition of film as a reflective and learning tool is so exciting to me. I hope to continue to grow in the sector.