Week 1
In our opening session we will explore the elastic space between experience and language, where thought and motivation arise. This will lead us to an exploration of the somatic, silence and space as a primary location for the flow and sedimentation of experience. How can we follow this line of inquiry into the body to make space for a new sense of relatedness to emerge. We will explore the possibilities for images to arise from this place and practices for responsiveness to them.

Week 2
Filmsong sharing

Week 3
In this session we will think about the parameters of the image and the word with particular emphasis on how this relates to memory. We will begin to explore the alchemical process of writing as emotional formulating - in what ways it retains feeling, and how it might embody loss. We will also begin to unravel the dimensionality of images and their making and reflect on our own position as viewers of cinema - the reciprocal process taking place between our perception and the presence of images themselves.

Week 4
Limitation of the image: working through memory, materiality and melancholia 

Guest speaker session and conversation.

Week 5
Filmsong sharing

Week 6
Mid-session break

Week 6
This week we will consider the ways in which writing relates to the unconscious and how structures for autobiographical language emerge through the intimate space of the journal. Reflecting on the films we will explore the fluidity and motion expressed through the production of images, as well as how their arrangement and an approach to sound can contribute to a rhythmic, layered and embodied film language.

Week 8 
Filmsong sharing and practice

Week 9
This week is dedicated to a one-on-one meeting to discuss a larger project idea for development.

Week 10
This session will focus on correspondence and letter writing as a means for transmission and reception of feeling. Dating from the 18th Century letter writing creates a space where the psyche can find form and be shared through the hands of the receiver. The letter creates a mobile impression of both emotional and physical landscapes, allowing us to inhabit spaces and feelings beyond our personal realm of experience. We will reflect on how correspondence and the form of the letter is explored through filmic space and consider its invitation for dialogue, friendship and connection.

Week 11

Guest speaker session and conversation.

Week 12

Filmsong sharing

Week 13
Language sketches a window into the relationship between the individual and society. In this session we will consider how storytelling can offer an exploration of agency that connects us more deeply to the collective through the creation of new systems of relating. We will explore our understanding of language, its limitations and (re)-arrangement to include visuality, editing and sound. What are the things we care about and worlds that we long for? How do we cultivate our voice to connect with the collective?

Week 14
Filmsong sharing

Week 15
Mid-session break

Week 15
In this week’s session we will consider writing beyond text. We will explore works that don’t always rely on a linear narrative, are impressionistic and create a subliminal and experiential film language. How can we convey a sensation through writing that moves beyond verbal language and dialogue? How do we write the non-verbal? This session places its focus on the exploration of sensation and the present moment through an alternative approach to writing.

Week 16
Filmsong sharing

Week 19
Our closing session will be dedicated to sharing work from the programme and reflecting on the experience. It’s an opportunity to consider what methods of practice were beneficial and to plan for sustained development beyond our meetings. 

The course cost is at a sliding scale from £400.00 - £600.00, and you are welcome to pay in installments. You can select this option at the check-out.

This course is open to all with an interest in filmmaking and writing practice. No prior experience is required. The course offers a context, structure and accountability for getting started or continuing and deepening your creative work.

A computer or tablet for joining and participating in sessions over zoom is required. In addition, a sound and image recording device will also be helpful in order to fulfill (the optional) creative prompts.

If cost is a barrier please get in touch, there are a number of full and partial scholarship places available.

Yes! All sessions are recorded, and are made available the following day.

We meet for up to 2 hours each week, and there will be weekly practices and readings shared. It is entirely up to you how much much time you wish to dedicate to studying outside of our sessions together.

You don’t need a specific project in mind. These sessions are open and intended to enrich your creative practice. If you already have something in process, you are welcome to workshop and progress the project through the sessions.

We offer refunds up until 7 days before the first class. After this time, we cannot offer refunds as the course is planned and payed for by the sale of tickets. With this in mind, please carefully assess your capacity before signing up.