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- Tasks: Create a short documentary film on local sports shoe history and interviews.
- Company: Bolton Museum, a hub for heritage and culture.
- Benefits: Up to £5,400 budget for the project, including fees and post-production.
- Other info: Collaborate with a sports historian and gain exposure in a prestigious setting.
- Why this job: Make an impact by showcasing local history in a high-profile exhibition.
- Qualifications: Experience in filmmaking and storytelling through visual media.
Freelance Filmmaker for Heritage Project, Bolton Museum
October 14, 2024
Bolton Museum is looking to commission a freelance filmmaker to create a short documentary film exploring the history of two local sports shoe manufacturers – Reebok, formed in Bolton in the 1950s, and Norman Walsh Footwear, established 1961. The film will also touch on the history of local running clubs and athletes, many of whom competed in shoes made by Reebok or Norman Walsh.
The filmmaker will work with the museum and a freelance sports historian to record interviews with key figures in the sports shoe companies and past and current members of the running clubs.
The finished version of the film will feature in a high‑profile exhibition at Bolton Museum in summer 2025.
Background
The project takes place from October 2024 – May 2025 and has a budget of up to £5,400, including professional fees for the film and post‑production, including editing.
Bolton Museum has been awarded funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund for a project that will link the story of Reebok, the global sportswear brand that was founded in Bolton, with the history of local running clubs and athletes.
Foster & Sons (later Reebok), established in Bolton in the early 1900s, designed some of the earliest spiked running shoes. The shoes were tested by members of local sports clubs before being taken up by elite athletes such as Harold Abrahams who won gold at the 1924 Olympic Games.
In 1961, an ex‑employee of Foster & Sons, Norman Walsh, set up his own sports shoe company in Bolton. Norman Walsh Footwear is now the only surviving traditional manufacturer of sports footwear in Britain. Its shoes are handmade by skilled craftsmen and women at its Bolton Factory.
The freelance filmmaker will work with the museum and a sports historian to identify subjects for the film, including key figures in the sports shoe companies and members of local running clubs.
Responsibilities
- Work with the museum and a freelance sports historian to agree an appropriate style/approach for the film and to identify subjects.
- Film interviews with sports shoe manufacturers and makers, and members of local running clubs and athletes. You will be assisted in this process by a freelance sports historian.
- Using the recorded interviews and other visual material, produce a short documentary film (approximately 20 minutes long) for screening in a high‑profile exhibition opening at Bolton Museum in July 2025. A version of the film will also be archived by the North West Film Archive.
Apply
For the initial stage of the process, we ask you to provide us with a short statement outlining how you would approach the project brief and examples of past work.
Closing date for submissions is Friday 25 October 2024.
Submissions will be reviewed with possible follow up questions in week commencing 28 October.
Successful applicant informed by Friday 8 November.
Please note that, because of the high numbers of submissions we are expecting, we will only be able to give limited feedback.
Please assume that you have not been selected if you have not heard by 8 November.
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Freelance Filmmaker for Heritage Project, Bolton Museum employer: Art In Liverpool
Contact Detail:
Art In Liverpool Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Freelance Filmmaker for Heritage Project, Bolton Museum
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to local filmmakers, historians, and even running clubs. They might have insights or connections that could help you land this gig. Plus, showing your enthusiasm for the project can really make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your portfolio ready! Make sure to showcase your best work that aligns with the heritage theme. Highlight any past projects that involved interviews or documentary-style filmmaking to show you’re the right fit for this role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview! If you get called in, be ready to discuss your vision for the film. Think about how you’d approach the storytelling aspect and what unique angles you could bring to the history of Reebok and Norman Walsh.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing applicants who take the time to follow the process. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Freelance Filmmaker for Heritage Project, Bolton Museum
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know the Project: Before you start writing, take a moment to really understand the project brief. Dive into the history of Reebok and Norman Walsh Footwear, and think about how you can weave that into your application. We want to see your passion for the subject!
Showcase Your Style: When outlining your approach, be sure to highlight your unique filmmaking style. Share examples of past work that resonate with the documentary format. We love seeing creativity, so don’t hold back on showcasing what makes you stand out!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your statement focused and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure you communicate your ideas effectively without unnecessary fluff. Remember, we’re looking for a strong vision that aligns with the project goals.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of everything. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining this exciting project at Bolton Museum!
How to prepare for a job interview at Art In Liverpool
✨Know Your Subject
Before the interview, dive deep into the history of Reebok and Norman Walsh Footwear. Familiarise yourself with their milestones, key figures, and contributions to local sports. This knowledge will not only impress but also help you frame your approach to the documentary.
✨Showcase Your Style
Prepare a portfolio that highlights your previous work, especially any documentaries or films that resonate with the project’s theme. Be ready to discuss your creative process and how you envision the film's style aligning with the museum's vision.
✨Engage with the Community
Research local running clubs and athletes who have a connection to the brands. Mentioning specific individuals or stories during your interview can demonstrate your commitment to capturing the essence of the community in your film.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the project brief and the museum's expectations. This shows your genuine interest and helps clarify any uncertainties, ensuring you’re on the same page regarding the film's direction.