Wednesday 3rd – Friday 5th September 2025

Elevation Handmade Film Workshop | 10:00–16:00 each day.

(Final screening at Elevation Film Festival on Sunday 7th September)

Location: Notch Studio / Patchwork Studios, Maker Heights, Cornwall

Step into the unexpected with Notch Studios and Elevation Film Festival at Maker Heights - a place where creativity runs wild and mistakes are part of the magic.

Over three immersive days, this hands-on, collaborative workshop invites you to dive into the world of experimental filmmaking, working with Bolex film cameras, analog film and hand processing the results. Whether you're a curious beginner or a seasoned creative, you'll be encouraged to play, explore, and push boundaries — no pressure, no perfection, just pure artistic discovery.

Ticket Price: £20 for the full 3-day workshop experience, book here.

Facilitators:

• Tom Kirkman (Notch Studio, experienced filmmaker)

• Dr Richard Ashrowan (Alchemy & Elevation Film Festival, experimental filmmaker)

• Dom Moore (Notch Studio, experienced photographer)

• Patrycja Loranc (Seaing-Hearing member, experimental filmmaker)

• Chris Stacey (MA in Theatre and Sound, radio DJ) 

🎧 Day One – Introduction to Experimental Film and Sound

The day begins with a welcome and overview of the workshop, followed by a guided tour of Maker Heights. Richard Ashrowan introduces experimental filmmaking, exploring approaches beyond traditional narrative structures. In the afternoon, Tom Kirkman leads a practical session on sound recording, covering equipment use and creative techniques. Participants will then head out to record their own audio in the surrounding area.

🎬 Day Two – Concept & Cinematography

In the morning, Richard Ashrowan and Tom Kirkman guide a creative ideation session to help participants develop concepts for their films. In the afternoon, they introduce 16mm filming techniques using Bolex cameras. While some attendees operate the cameras, others document the process with behind-the-scenes footage. Participants rotate through roles including camera operation, lighting setup, and documentation.

🧪 Day Three – Editing & Experimental Techniques

With footage and sound in hand, participants work with Tom Kirkman, Richard Ashrowan, and experimental film artist Patrycja Loranc to cut and develop their films. The session includes hands-on editing and opportunities to physically manipulate the 16mm film for a distinctive finish. The final piece will be prepared for screening at the Elevation Film Festival’s Sunday evening finale.

🌟 Includes:

• Access to all three full-day workshops (10:00–16:00, with a 12:30 lunch break)

• All materials and equipment (sound, film, processing)

• Light refreshments (please bring your own lunch)

• Mentorship from professional artists and filmmakers

👥 Who Should Attend:

Open to all levels, but ideal for emerging filmmakers, artists, and anyone curious about experimental film, sound, and processing methods.

📩 Booking & Enquiries:

Book your place here!

Website: www.makerheights.org.uk/elevation-film-festival-2025

Email: hellonotchstudio@gmail.com

Terms & Conditions

Cancellation Policy: Tickets are non-refundable. In the event of unforeseen circumstances leading to cancellation by the organizers, participants will be notified and refunded in full.

Participant Responsibilities: Participants are expected to engage respectfully and responsibly throughout the workshop. All equipment must be handled with care, and instructions from facilitators must be followed. Please ensure you arrive on time and keep the schedule.

Use of Recorded Materials: By attending the workshop, participants consent to the use of any recorded materials (audio, video, or photographs) for promotional and archival purposes by Notch Studios and Elevation Film Festival.

Health & Safety: Participants must adhere to all health and safety guidelines provided during the workshop. Any medical conditions or accessibility needs should be communicated in advance to ensure appropriate accommodations.