Creative Moray

Film G short film comp

2011-12-07T14:37:00.000-08:00

Dear All,

Anyone interested in collaborating to produce a short for FIlm G comp? Deadline is in a months time and the short has to be in Gaelic. Well, it could even be a music video of sorts with subs.... No big deal really if you don't speak the language, they do offer support. Week before xmas is cool, or inbetween xmas and new yr is pretty quiet.

Give me a hollar, or come across to the Forum to discuss and start generating ideas.

Cheers,

Anna.

Culture Cafe

2011-10-04T09:20:00.000-07:00

This was discussed at today's CM meeting. Do any of the members have ideas for how we could host this event, before xmas? Could we incorporate food on film and also showcase our 5x5x5 legacy? Do any of our members have good links with food businesses? Please carry on the discussion in the Forum. We had an idea to perhaps use this to launch our website too.

---------------------------------------------

Are you interested in hosting the next Moray Culture Café?

The highly successful Culture Café pilot event was organised by
Bodysurf Scotland in conjunction with the Bakehouse Cafe, Findhorn in
June and the baton is ready to be handed on.

Thanks to generous support from HiArts, a budget of £500 - £600 is
available for the each of the next four Culture Cafés. Hosts are free to
spend the budget and organise the event as you see fit, providing it is
in line with our manifesto (attached) and a few basic priorities. There
is plenty of room to make it your own event and Bodysurf Scotland is
happy to advise and offer practical guidance as needed.
- Food is part of culture and quality food and drink is the perfect
accompaniment to any professional or social gathering. The next Culture
Cafés must be organised in conjunction with a local quality food and/or
drinks purveyor, with the aim of promoting local partnerships and
providing substantial sustenance to a deserving arts community.
- The venue, general style and flavour of event is up to you. It may
be a forum for debate and discussion (as the first one was), or it may
include a showcase of performance work, a film, exhibit, or cabaret.
Remember that a key aspect of the Culture Café is informal conversation
and networking.
- As hosts, you will take the lead in setting the agenda for the event,
although attendees should be invited to contribute discussion and
presentation topics prior to the event. Discussions can be in the form
of small groups, larger presentations, etc, and may lead to smaller
working groups at a later date.
- Entrance to the event should be free.
- Culture Café is a means to build links and partnerships with local
businesses, community and cultural organisations. Representatives from
these groups may be invited to attend.

If you are interested in hosting or want to sound out the possibility,
please contact Kresanna Aigner (Assoc Producer) or myself via the
Bodysurf Scotland email address, or call me direct.

We look forward to hearing your ideas and passing the baton on to the
next hosts.

Karl Jay-Lewin

Choreographer

Artistic Director of Bodysurf Scotland

+44 (0)77 913 77 181

www.bodysurfscotland.co.uk http://www.facebook.com/bodysurfscotland

Autumn - CM

2011-10-04T05:46:00.000-07:00

Dear All,

Just to bring your attention to keep visiting our Forum, where discussions will be taking place in order to push forward with creative projects:

creativemoray.freeforums.org

We are still trying to firm up our Mission Statement as an inclusive group. Please feel free to submit a suggestion in the Forum. Also, we are now focussing on creating a website and in discussion for creating a launch event.

Remember, if you haven't already, you will need to create a login for the Forum.

Cheers!

Anna.

FREE Community Group Activities

2011-10-04T05:02:00.000-07:00

FREE DISCOVERY SESSIONS FOR LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUPS

We run FREE sessions at Elgin Cathedral for community groups, an opportunity to
handle objects in interactive sessions with costume and free entry to Elgin
Cathedral. For more information please contact Elgin Cathedral on 01343 547171 to
book a session with the Local Learning Officer Jenny Ebdy.

You can choose from the following:

Science Rocks

Cathedral Life

Artist Workshop

We can also adapt our sessions to suit your group/timescale & needs.

Look forward to hearing from you.

Kind regards

Catriona Parmenter | North Learning Development Officer

__________________________________________________

Historic Scotland | Alba Aosmhor

Fort George, by Ardersier, Inverness-shire IV2 7TD

t| 01667 460 208

Catriona.Parmenter@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

Oct Update - Hello We're Back :)

2011-10-04T04:58:00.001-07:00

Dear All,

Thanks for bearing with us during our summer lull. The group met this morning at Moray College, fresh from the success of the 5x5x5 initiative for a debrief and ideas generation for new collaborative projects. I'm sure hon Chair Tom Duncan will be posting notes on the Forum, as per.

We really would like to re-engage with everyone. Fair to say there has been little updates on here for a few months, so apologies about that. But with winter upon us it's the perfect time to get busy beavering away on creative projects together.

If you are not already logged in to our forum, then we invite you to join and start collaborating! A link can be found under Forum heading on the right hand side.

Okay, that's all for now. Thanks.

Anna.

Cultural Enterprise July 2011 e-Bulletin

2011-07-19T13:09:00.001-07:00

CULTURAL ENTERPRISE OFFICE eBulletin

This month we welcome Andy Robertson to the hub and Susan Hayes to our
Creative Industry Adviser team and wish Starter for 6 Main programme
participants the best of luck with their pitches.

NEW! Adviser for Dance – Susan Hayes
Susan brings to our creative industry pool advice on: building a
career as a dancer or choreographer, venue relations, dance education,
audience development and support with business management specific to
dance. Susan has worked internationally as a dancer, choreographer and
producer. She promoted emerging Scottish artists for several years,
showcasing them in The Stamping Ground, as well as setting up a
company of 400 traditional Scottish dancers – The Tattoo Dance
Company – specifically for the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Susan has
worked within arts management for many years for dance, music and
theatre companies. She is currently setting up her own venture to
support artists and to manage commercial events/activities.

Our Creative Industry Advice sessions are subject to referral as
availability is limited. Call the Enquiry Line on 0844 544 9990 (local
rate) to discuss your requirements or email
info@culturalenterpriseoffice.co.uk.

NEW! Welcome to Andy Robertson – Operations Assistant
We are very pleased to welcome Andy Robertson in his new role as
Operations Assistant within the hub team. Since graduating from The
Glasgow School of Art with an honours degree in woven textiles in
2008, Andy has taken design work to Milan and has worked with
London/Berlin based lighting designer Stuart Haygarth. Andy also works
as Creative Assistant at Glasgow based fashion label ten30.

Vacancy – Part Time Marketing Assistant
We are looking for an enthusiastic and creative individual with an
interest and working experience of marketing and the creative
industries to join our team. The successful candidate will provide
support in the delivery of all aspects of the marketing mix and new
media developments. The closing date for applications is Thursday 28
July 2011 with interviews taking place week commencing Monday 15
August.

Thank you to John Heffernan
We would like to thank John Heffernan, our Operations Assistant, for
all his hard work and welcoming banter over the past year. We wish
John all the best for his work placement at the Venice Biennale and
future endeavours.

Our Information team provide comprehensive tools and resources to
assist you in starting or developing your business. This month from
our property section we look at the different ways to locate your
business, depending on your practical needs and sector. The following
resources highlight the steps required for obtaining and managing
premises.

Property Planning Guide
This guide clarifies certain issues you will come across when you are
looking to find, rent or buy premises to house your creative business.

Property Planning Worksheet
This worksheet helps you clarify what stage you are at with your
planning; whether you are looking to find, rent, buy or manage new or
existing property to house your business.

Where can I search for premises for my business / practice?

Enquiry Service: Do you have a question we can help you with?
If you have a question or would like to discuss a topic in more depth
call the Enquiry Line on 0844 544 9990 (local rate) to speak with our
Enquiries Officer or email enquiries@culturalenterpriseoffice.co.uk.
Please note we are open until 20:00 every Wednesday.

For details of upcoming Creative Industry and Business Events visit
our External Events section. Here is a selection:

Edinburgh - The Fringe Fair at Fringe Central
Thursday 18 August 2011, 16:00-19:00 and Friday 19 August 2011, 10:00-
13:00

Dundee - Creative Scotland: Roadshow & Investment Surgery
Wednesday 27 July 2011 09:30-13:30

Top Tip – Don’t Forget About Insurance
This month our Enquiries Officer, Janine Matheson, offers her top tip
on looking for a studio or creative workspace:

‘When you are looking to rent a studio for your practice or creative
business, insurance tends to be the last thing on your mind. It is
always useful to consider what type of insurance(s) you may need.
Firstly remember to ask the person you are renting the premises from
what insurance they provide within your agreement. A few questions to
ask yourself: will you be providing workshops in the space... (Public
Liability Insurance), will you be keeping equipment or works in the
space... (Contents Insurance), do you need more specialist insurance
for any activities? There are a few places you can explore for further
guidance such as your industry body, Business Gateway and the British
Insurance Brokers’ Association.’

Our free, specialist advice service offers businesses and
practitioners working within the creative industries the opportunity
to discuss and develop their ideas with an Adviser in a one-to-one
session.

Finance Advice Sessions: Fraser Campbell – Wednesday 20 July 2011
Advice Drop-in: Business Gateway (Glasgow) – Wednesday 27 July 2011

HMRC Advice Sessions – Friday 5 August 2011

Aberdeen & Grampian Advice Sessions – 20 July & 25 August 2011

Advice Sessions by Skype
As part of our ongoing service delivery, we offer Advice sessions with
any member of our Adviser team using Skype. Free to set up on your
computer or mobile phone, Skype allows you to share files and links
with the Adviser just like you would in person. So don’t let
geography get in the way of the advice you need, call the Enquiry Line
to find out more.

Like you we will be enjoying the summer and possibly a holiday so our
events programme will be quieter than usual during July and August,
leading into what promises to be a busy autumn. Keep an eye on the
Events section of our website.

Workshops

Glasgow – Starting Out
Thursday 1 September 2011, 13:00-17:00

Glasgow – Creating Contacts
Thursday 15 September 2011, 10:30-16:30

The Starter for 6 Main Programme (five months) and Starter for 6 Fast
Track (five weeks) run once a year and offer four enterprise training
sessions, peer mentoring, telephone coaching support and the
opportunity to pitch for up to £10,000 of investment.

Fast Track Deadline Fast Approaching!
With just over two weeks until the application deadline for the 2011
Fast Track Programme, view the list of participants from last year for
inspiration. Applications close at midnight on Friday 29 July 2011.

NEW! Starter for 6 Case Studies
Watch Kirsteen Stewart, Kirsteen Stewart Designs and Andrew Partridge,
Scotland Loves Animation describe their journey through the Starter
for 6 Programme in our two new case studies.

Best wishes
Cultural Enterprise Office Team

Cultural Enterprise Office,
50 Bell Street,
Glasgow,
G1 1LQ
Enquiry Line: 0844 544 9990 (local rate)
info@culturalenterpriseoffice.co.uk
www.culturalenterpriseoffice.co.uk

Chamber of Commerce July e-Bulletin

2011-07-19T13:08:00.001-07:00

Hello Members & Friends,

Please read on and act now if you are interested in the following events and
opportunities:

1. Scotland’s Food Trail and Scotland’s Gallery Trail
2. Member Benefits Update
3. Press & Journal Advert Opportunity
4. HMRC Courses
5. The Engineering Development Trust – GO4SET
6. Business Gateway Enterprise
7. Graduate Employment Survey
8. CM Design
You can now find us on Facebook and view images of our events:
http://www.facebook.com/moraychamber .
We are also on Twitter:
http://twitter.com/#!/moraychamber

1.Scotland’s Food Trail and Scotland’s Gallery Trail - PARTNERSHIP OPPORTUNITY!

Moray Chamber is now leading the way in publishing trails in support of our members
and partners and is now the operations partner for both the Food Trail and the
Gallery Trail. The Gallery Trail is now in its 7th year and the Food Trail in its
4th year. This is your opportunity if you are in the food and drink or art sector to
become a partner.
Each trail has an annual leaflet and www site, with distribution throughout the
north east of Scotland as well as at international events. Press coverage is regular
and the chamber hopes to build on this success. In addition all partners will be
featured in MPower Magazine the business to business magazine of Moray Chamber of
Commerce.
Events for throughout the year will be planned to help boost tourism.

To find more information on the trails published, click on your interested area of
choice below.
www.scotlandsgallerytrail.com or www.scotlandsfoodtrail.com

2011-2012 editions are in progress and if you are interested then please contact
Moray Chamber by e-mailing info@moraychamber.co.uk or telephone 01340 881226.

2. Moray Chamber of Commerce Benefits and Joining Information.
If you are not a member of the chamber this might be the perfect opportunity for you
to sign up!
Band A – 1-3 Employees - £150/Band B 4 – 50 Employees - £250/Band C 51-100 Employees
£300/Band D 101 -250 Employees £500.Band E Over 250 Employees £1,000 – Third
Sector/Social Enterprises/Charities £100. VAT is additional.

Just let me know which Band you belong to and I can raise an invoice so that you can
start to benefit from the following packages or go to www.moraychamber.co.uk to
download an up to date application form.
Once you become a member you will be eligible to participate in the Chamber Primary
Health Plan. A representative will personally visit you if required.
(www.westfieldhealth.com/chamber)

I can send you a leaflet about Chamber Legal Expenses Insurance which gives you
legal cover worth more than £670,000 FREE with your chamber membership. (Subject to
certain terms and conditions). In addition to employment related disputes the policy
cover up to £65,000 per annum for a solicitor, accountant of other professional to
represent your business in areas such as Inland Revenue & Tax Investigations.
Therefore if you want to find out more visit www.composite-legal.com/chamber

Existing member shave their own access to our chamber HR package. Interested friends
for July only can visit www.chamberhr.co.uk and log in using the following temporary
details.
Username – demo
Password – summer29

At Moray Chamber we have now launched our Business Mentoring programme (you don’t
need to be a member to join this!) and are in the process of matching up a number of
mentors and mentees so please let me know if you would be interested in
participating. A leaflet is available for your perusal. Andy Maxtone is the project
officer and you can e mail him at amaxtone@businessmentoringscotland.org

George McNeil, our president, represents the needs of our members on the Moray
Economic Partnership.

Member benefits also include a regular copy of this E Bulletin, MPower the yearly
magazine, an entry in MPower and Scottish Chambers yearly directory, affiliation to
Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce as well as discounted rates for advertising,
events and training throughout the year and the opportunity to attend Moray’s
largest black tie business dinner held in September every year. Member issues are
regularly fed into Scottish Chambers policy making documents and your views
represented at Scottish and UK Government.

3. Press & Journal Advertisement

The next Moray Chamber of Commerce advert is to be published on Wednesday 24h
August. If you are interested in advertising within our advert please contact
Seonaid MacRae by telephoning 01463 272288 or by e-mailing
invernessadvertising@ajl.co.uk

4. HMRC Workshops

The Moray Chamber of Commerce has been approached by a member of staff from HMRC in
Aberdeen, who is willing to run workshops/seminars for our members free of charge.
There are a number of different topics which they cover, all of which are listed
below. If you are interested in any of these, please e-mail info@moraychamber.co.uk
or telephone 01340 881226. As there are a few options please let us know which
workshop(s) you would like to attend and if a day or evening workshop would suit you
best.

1. A basic starter – This workshop covers the basics of setting up business and
explains TAX, NIC etc.
2. Business Expenses and Capital Allowances – What you can and cannot claim and why.
3. How to file online taxes – What goes where, how to register etc.
4. Basics of VAT – How to register etc.
5. Basic Payroll Workshop – Covers everything from taking an employee on to how to
run payroll systems, deductions etc.
6. Sick pay, Maternity pay, Paternity pay – The basics of these and what both the
employer and employee are entitled to.
7. Employers Paying Expenses – What expenses are to be covered.

5. Engineering Development Trust

The Engineering Development Trust, based at Strathclyde University, is running a
project called GO4SET (http://www.go4set.org.uk ) which engages 12-14 year olds
with the STEM subjects. Pupils work on a 10 week environmentally themed project in
conjunction with businesses. After a successful 2010/2011 in Moray, they would like
to expand on this. The launch date for this is yet to be confirmed, although it is
thought to be late September early October. They are looking for businesses in the
Moray area who would like to take part in this highly valuable project. If you would
like to be involved please telephone: 0141 548 4152 or E-mail:
scotland@go4set.org.uk

6.Business Gateway Enterprise Europe Network European Information Clinic

Interested in doing business or getting involved in R & D projects in Europe?
A one-to-one meeting with your local Enterprise Europe Network could unlock your
business potential.
What is the Enterprise Europe Network? The Enterprise Europe Network in Inverness is
your local support service to help Highland & Island businesses connect with the
European network.

What can we do for you?
We can explore potential European business and research opportunities, try and find
European suppliers and customers, look for European solutions to improve your
products and processes, obtain relevant contacts for you in Europe, carry out market
research, provide information on EU legislation, give support on public
procurement…and more!
If you are interested in doing business in Europe then please come and meet
Enterprise Europe for a one-to-one meeting to discuss how we can help.

How do I register?
1. Register on our website
http://www.enterprise-europe-scotland.com/sct/events/register.asp?eventid=1096
2. Email us a little bit about your business
enterprise.europe@highland-opportunity.com
3. We will contact you to offer a suitable time slot!

7. Graduate Employment Survey

The international education officer for Scotland, Helen O’Shea has asked us to pass
this on to our members. She would greatly appreciate any feedback!
The recent figures released by the Centre for Economics and Business Research shows
that 52% of last year’s university-leavers were unemployed or under-employed six
months after graduating. Given this increased competition for fewer graduate
vacancies, there has been an increased interest in the education sector in the role
international experience and co-curricular activity may play in the enhanced
employability of students who undertake such initiatives.
Funded by the Higher Education Academy, NUS Scotland is currently conducting a
survey into graduate employability focusing on two specific aspects that enhance
graduate attributes: international experience and co-curricular activity.
This Scottish-specific employer survey is the first of its kind to examine the
economic impact that international experience and co-curricular activity may have on
the lives of students who undertake them, specifically the impact on their future
job prospects post study.
This survey provides an opportunity for Scottish employers to indicate how important
they consider the acquisition of graduate attributes gained through international
study placements and co-curricular activity for their future labour force.
The survey can be filled in below:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/nusscotlandemployability

8.CM Design

Member company CM Design would like us to let you know they continue to offer a very
experienced Chartered Planning, Chartered Architect and Design team, between their
Elgin and Nairn offices, eager to serve your needs - Large and small. They offer a
free no obligation survey and advice. Visit their website at www.cmdesign.biz or
call their Elgin office on 01343 540020 or their Nairn office on 01667 300230.

Best Regards,
Rachael

Rachael Annand
Administration & Events Co-ordinator
Moray Chamber of Commerce
17 Victoria Street
Craigellachie, Aberlour-on-Spey
Moray
AB38 9SR
Tel: 01340 881 226

HI-Arts Awards 2011

2011-07-19T13:06:00.000-07:00

VISUAL ARTISTS AWARDS

In association with Creative Scotland and Highlands and Islands
Enterprise

Following the final deadline in May for the 2010/11 Visual Artists
Awards scheme, HI~Arts is pleased to announce an additional round to
allocate the remaining budget for the scheme for the financial year.

HI~Arts is offering two awards of up to £1,200 each.

All the normal criteria for this scheme still apply, but in addition
HI~Arts will be looking for evidence that the proposal will make a
significant and lasting difference to the creative and professional
development of the applicant. For example, it’s extremely unlikely
that an award would be made just to meet framing costs for an
exhibition. The applicant’s work should also be of a very high
standard.

Application should be submitted electronically to laura@hi-arts.co.uk
by 12.00 noon on Monday 8th August 2011, for projects starting no
earlier than 1st September 2011. Applicants will be informed of the
decisions of the Awards Panel no later than Friday 19th August 2011.

Full guidelines and application forms can be downloaded from:

July 2011 Update

2011-07-19T12:55:00.000-07:00

To All Creative Moravians,

Great apologies to those of you who have been coming back to visit this Blog, however, it has been neglected for sometime now and I feel after a meeting at Moray College today it was time someone made an update with regards to Creative Moray developments.

CM has now become a projects based outlet and we are not setting up anymore CM meetings unless they are to do with a specific project. At the moment Tom Duncan is spearheading a creative film/ music initiative with the help of a small fund from IdeasTap, which he successfully applied for. You can keep up to date with this here.

We do not wish to loose the momentum of interest in the arts and media, which we have built up over the last couple of years through contacts and networking, so please do keep coming back here from time-to-time.

Also, we wish to encourage ongoing ideas generation for creative ventures/ initiatives/ collaborations in Moray. I cannot stress enough, that we urge people to post these ideas here, in order to gain feedback or to start a collaboration. Not forgetting our Forum too, which is only open to members that sign up online. Please do log in frequently to utilise this useful tool. It could certainly help your business!

Well, that's all from me. Just a note to say that I attended a development/planning meeting for the next Moray Film Festival this morning, spear headed by Amanada Millen (Creative HI and GoNorth) and Anna Templeton (Moray College). There was support from other local filmmakers, the Moray Art Ctr and we are looking for ideas please! I'll post when the next meeting has been confirmed.

It would certainly be great to catch up with any of you guys as it feels like ages now and I'm sure we're all working on weird and wonderful projects. I'm always up for collaborating!

Best wishes,

Anna M.

ScreenHI News Bulletin April 2011

2011-04-13T07:34:00.000-07:00

It's all about the deadlines! There's a couple this week - don't miss out
on a brilliant opportunity for 4 days free training with MGEITF or if you
are in the market for it, the Inverness based vacancies with STUC.

What’s in this issue ++

- FREE TV training initiative - MGEITF - The Network
- STUC Job Vacancies in Inverness
- Women on Film - A competition from Sight & Sound
- Ping! Microwave Re-Open for Applications
- Grierson 2011 - The British Documentary Awards - open for nominations
- BBC Drama Writers Academy

FREE TV training initiative ++

MGEITF - The Network ++

Application Deadline – 15th April 2011

The Networkis the charitable arm of theMediaGuardian Edinburgh
International Television Festival. The Network is open to those aged 18
and over and provides the opportunity to attend four days of FREE training
in Edinburgh preparing delegates for a career in television. Supported by
the TV industry, The Network helps those who want to take their first step
in TV.

Successful applicants will get the opportunity to meet and work withthe
best TV talent from behind and in front of the camera and gives them a
comprehensive introduction to TV through masterclasses, workshops,
networking events and careers talks.

When? 25th to 28th August 2011

Highlights from last year include a masterclass with writer and creator
ofShameless, Paul Abbott and a research workshop with Charlie Brooker and
the team behindWould I Lie To You?

With the exception of travel to and from Edinburgh,everything else, from
accommodation and food to the actual workshops, is entirely free.
Applications are sought via the MGEITF website.STUC Job Vacancies ++

Scottish Trade Union Congress, Scottish Union Learning

ESF Development Officer (21 Hours)

£33,159 per annum (pro rata) Fixed term contract until 31st March
2012 (may be extended subject to funding)

Scottish Union Learning is seeking to recruit a Development Officer (part
time) to aid delivery of a European Social Fund (ESF) funded Project. The
core aim of the Project is to support trade unions in identifying the
collective learning and training needs that will improve the skills of the
workforce, and to broker learning provision to meet these needs. Based in
Inverness.

ESF Admin Assistant (14 Hours)

£23,550 per annum (pro rata) Fixed term contract until 31st March
2012 (may be extended subject to funding)

Scottish Union Learning is seeking to recruit an Admin Assistant (part
time) to support delivery of a European Social Fund (ESF) funded Project.
The core aim of the Project is to support trade unions in identifying the
collective learning and training needs that will improve the skills of the
workforce, and to broker learning provision to meet these needs. Based in
Inverness.

Further details and recruitment pack can be obtained from STUC, 333
Woodlands road, Glasgow G3 6NG by phoning 0141 337 8134, or by emailing.

Closing date for receipt of applications is 5pm on Thursday 14th April
2011Women on Film - A Competition from Sight & Sound ++

Application deadline 3rd May 2011

Following a stirring article, The Ladies Vanished, by film critic and
former Edinburgh Film Festival director Hannah McGill, which highlighted
the dearth of female film critics, Sight & Sound are inviting women
who are not already professional film journalists to enter a writing
competition.

Up for grabs is a year-long mentoring programme with one or more of Sight
& Sound's female journalists, plus a commission to write a longer
feature for their website.

Full information and details about how to enter here.Ping! Microwave
Re-Opens for Applications ++

Application deadline 3rd May 2011

Microwave is the award-winning, micro-budget, film-making scheme from Film
London and BBC Films with support from Skillset.

A unique 'training through production' scheme, Film London Microwave
provides funding, bespoke mentoring and training, supporting film-makers
from script to screen.

More information and how to apply here.

Grierson 2011 - The British Documentary Awards ++

Open for Nominations

The Grierson Awards commemorate the pioneering Scottish documentary
filmmaker John Grierson (1898 – 1972), famous for Drifters and Night
Mail and the man widely regarded as the father of the documentary.
Categories as follows:

Best Documentary on a Contemporary Theme – Domestic Best Documentary
on a Contemporary Theme – International Best Documentary on the
ArtsBest Historical DocumentaryBest Science DocumentaryMost Entertaining
DocumentaryBest Documentary Series Best Cinema DocumentaryBest Newcomer
Best Student Documentary The Trustees’ AwardThe timetable of
deadlines:

Qualifying period 1st May 2010 – 30th April 2011Closing date for
entries 18:00 hours, 1 JuneShortlist announced 1st AugustNominations
announced 19th SeptemberAwards ceremony 1st NovemberFor more information
on how to enter and the criteria follow the link.

BBC Drama Writers Academy ++

Applications for the 2011 BBC Drama Writers Academy opened on 7th April
and will remain open until 5th May 2011. Please see the BBC Jobs website
for an online application form.

Now in its seventh year, the Writers Academy is a major initiative aimed
at discovering and training the next generation of writers for BBC
One’s flagship shows: EastEnders, Casualty, Holby City, and Doctors.

The scheme works as an apprenticeship for writers. The first part involves
a three-month course taught by John Yorke, Controller of Drama. Writers
then complete a broadcast episode of Doctors, and if this is accepted they
then complete commissions on Casualty, Holby and EastEnders.

Entry requirements

You are eligible to apply if you have been paid to write for television,
film, radio, or theatre. Along with your online application form, you will
need to send in an original sample of your writing plus proof of a
professional commission. The online application forms can be completed
through the BBC Jobs website - after 11th April 2011.

That's us for now. Hope to see you at some of our events.

Thanks for reading,

Amanda Millen
Development Producer
ScreenHI

Moray Chamber Update

2011-03-29T18:17:00.000-07:00

Hello Members & Friends

What's the big idea?

Have you ever wanted to run your own business? Do you dream of being the next Alan
Sugar or James Dyson? Maybe you’ve pioneered a ground breaking product or invented
the next must have gadget.

“What’s the big idea” could help turn your business ideas into a commercial reality;
with a chance for one would be Moray entrepreneur to win an investment of up to
£30,000.
Based on a similar format to the hit TV series Dragons’ Den, “What’s the big idea”
is a competition where budding entrepreneurs are invited to pitch their big idea to
a panel of business leaders, in front of a local audience. Four finalists will
compete to win the £30,000 cash injection for their business, offered by a secret
Moray based investor.

Lesley Ann Parker, Chief Executive of Moray Chamber of Commerce, said: “As the home
of some of Scotland’s biggest brand names, including Baxters and Walkers, Moray has
no shortage of entrepreneurial spirit. ‘What’s the big idea?’ aims to build on this
success and support the next generation of entrepreneurs in Moray. This is an
exciting opportunity for aspiring tycoons to turn their business ideas into a
commercial reality. For our winner, it could mean the start of a successful new
venture that not only rewards their ingenuity, but also provides jobs and investment
for Moray.” The competition is sponsored by local law firm Ledingham Chalmers. Peter
Murray, a partner in the company, said: “What’s the big idea?” is a fantastic
opportunity for entrepreneurs to raise their profile and that of their product or
service. That combined with the cash available will make this a catalyst for many
2011 business plans. I wish all the contestants the best of luck.”

How to enter
The competition will be launched at Baxters, Fochabers, on Monday 28 March, from
3.00pm. Tickets are available from Moray Chamber of Commerce, priced £8 (members)
and £10 (non-members). Afternoon tea will be provided. Entry forms are also
available from Moray Chamber of Commerce. Email info@moraychamber.co.uk or call
01340 881226 for details. The deadline for entries is 18 May. The four finalists
will be selected on 25 May and invited to pitch their big idea to a panel of local
business leaders on 1 June.

East of Scotland Investment Fund (ESIF) - UPDATE

The above fund is now open to Sole Traders, Partnerships, LLPs and Limited
Companies. The East of Scotland Investment Fund (ESIF) is a consortium of nine Local
Authorities working together to provide loan finance to new and growing businesses
within the east of Scotland. The main aim of the fund is to encourage and support
the creation, development and growth of small and growing businesses within the east
of Scotland so that they will in turn be able to contribute to and strengthen the
local economy in terms of jobs, growth and wealth. Further information on criteria
and eligibility, along with application forms can be found at
www.eastscotinvest.co.uk/ The fund is managed on behalf of Moray Council and contact
details are: Craig Robertson - craig.robertson@highland-opportunity.com Or Lloyd
Cornfield - lloyd.cornfield@highland-opportunity.com

Moray Economic Strategy & Elgin – City Region for the future

You are invited to attend one of a series of seminars, hosted by the Community
Planning Partnership, taking place 5 - 7 April. Moray Economic Strategy encompasses
a broad range of initiatives and actions needed to diversify the area’s economy. The
Community Planning Partnership has commissioned consultants to produce
recommendations for this Strategy with a view to implementation over the next ten
years. For more information, please contact Pamela Harty (Planning and Development
Services) by email at pamela.harty@moray.gov.uk or by telephone on 01343 563265.

Earth Hour

In Moray we recognise the significance of climate change and welcome Moray Council’s
support of WWF’s Earth Hour 2011. We would like to give our members and friends the
opportunity to sign up to Earth Hour – taking place this Saturday, 26 March at
8.30pm. There are no commitments or costs associated – it is more of a petition to
show awareness. Thousands of companies and individuals around the world will be
turning off surplus electricity for one hour in an effort to reduce energy waste
helping protect our planet for the future. Please see link below if you would like
to support this: https://support.wwf.org.uk/earth_hour/index.php?type=business

Sale of Iconic whisky to aid Japanese quake and tsunami victims

Gordon & McPhail have decided to donate bottle No. 1 of Generations Glenlivet 70
Years Old to a special charity auction to raise money for the relief effort. All
funds will be paid to the Red Cross who will use them to help the Japanese people
recover from this devastating natural disaster. Bonhams Edinburgh, who are giving
their services for free, will deliver the special charity auction on Tuesday 29
March 2011 at 7.00pm GMT. The auction will be held at Bonhams 22 Queen Street,
Edinburgh and online at http://www.bonhams.com/eur/auction/19503/lot/1/

Tartan Ball, Saturday 2 April – last chance to book!

This will be the first official engagement of our new President George McNeil,
retail managing director of Johnstons of Elgin, who is the guest speaker. Tickets
are £30 and include a welcome drink sponsored by the Ugie House hotel where it will
be held, a three course dinner and unique raffle. Please email Linda Gorn at
kiltsandtextiles@btconnect.com for more information.

Kind Regards

Miss Lovat Hamilton
Administrator and Social Media Co-Ordinator to
Lesley Ann Parker, Chief Executive
Moray Chamber of Commerce

17 Victoria Street
Craigellachie
Aberlour-on-Spey, AB38 9SR

Tel: 01340 881 226

Moray Chamber Investment Pitch & ESIF Fund

2011-03-23T12:15:00.001-07:00

Book now to attend the launch of our ‘dragon’s den’ style, investment pitch event
aimed to introduce entrepreneurs to a potential investor with investment opportunity
of up to £30,000.
Four lucky entrepreneurs shortlisted will be invited to make a pitch on 1 June 2011
in front of a local audience and will be quizzed by a panel of business leaders. The
Moray investor wishes to remain anonymous, whose identity will only be revealed to
the winner.
Come to the launch for further information and to receive your application form. To
book, email info@moraychamber.co.uk Afternoon tea and coffee will be served at 4pm
with the opportunity for networking. Members £8/ Friends £10
Pitch Dates:
Monday 28 March - Hot Topic & Afternoon Tea
Wednesday 18 May – Deadline for receipt of applications
Wednesday 25 May – Deadline for final four candidates selection
Wednesday 1 June - Pitch event

East of Scotland Investment Fund (ESIF) – UPDATE from Business Gateway!

From March 2010 the above fund is now open to Sole Traders, Partnerships, LLPs and
Limited Companies for application.

The East of Scotland Investment Fund (ESIF) is a consortium of nine Local
Authorities working together to provide loan finance to new and growing businesses
within the east of Scotland. The main aim of the fund is to encourage and support
the creation, development and growth of small and growing businesses within the east
of Scotland so that they will in turn be able to contribute to and strengthen the
local economy in terms of jobs, growth and wealth. Further information on criteria
and eligibility, along with application forms can be found at
www.eastscotinvest.co.uk/ - The fund is managed on behalf of Moray Council and
contact details are as follows:

Craig Robertson - craig.robertson@highland-opportunity.com
Or
Lloyd Cornfield - lloyd.cornfield@highland-opportunity.com

Save the Date:

Friday 29 April – Whisky Supper
Monday 9 May - CIFAL - Counting Carbon Workshop
Saturday 9 July – Moray Chamber 10th Anniversary Celebration, Zorbing and Barbeque –
information and ticket price to follow

For further information please contact me at info@moraychamber.co.uk

Kindest regards

Miss Lovat Hamilton
Administrator and Social Media Co-Ordinator to
Lesley Ann Parker, Chief Executive
Moray Chamber of Commerce

17 Victoria Street
Craigellachie, Aberlour-on-Spey
Moray
AB38 9SR
Tel: 01340 881 226

ScreenHI goSURF & Wave Culture News March 2011

2011-03-23T12:14:00.001-07:00

We have an exciting opportunity that has just come up for a motivated and
ambitious filmmaker who can hit the ground running. Read on to find out
more....

...and calling all Radio podcasters for an opportunity at Wave North in
Thurso!

What’s in this issue ++

- Wave Culture - Filmmaker REQUIRED NOW!
- Wave North / goSurf Radio Podcasters

FILMMAKER REQUIRED ++

Wave Culture Project ++

Motivated and Ambitious Self-Starter Required for Creative Project in
Caithness and Orkney.

In collaboration with ScreenHI, HIE are seeking a filmmaker to create a
short film (maximum duration 10 minutes) to celebrate renewable energy, in
particular wave energy, the role it plays in the North of Scotland and how
it fits into a cool, modern, cultural society.

The backdrop for this project will be the renewable energy industry in
Caithness and Orkney, goSURF, Wave North and the O’Neill Cold Water
Classic International Surf Competition.

goSURF 11th - 16th April, Thurso

Wave North 9th - 17th April, Thurso

O'Neill Cold Water Classic International Surf Competition 13th - 19th
April, Thurso

EMEC, European Marine Energy Centre, Orkney

This is an ideal opportunity for a new or semi established filmmaker
wanting to further their experience and portfolio as well as developing a
profile within the Highlands and Islands. The turnaround is tight so an
immediate production start will be required. If you are interested ask for
more information here. Deadline for applications is Wednesday 30th March.

Wave North Festival, Thurso ++

9th - 17th April 2011 ++

++

As part of the O'Neill Cold Water Classic International Surfing
Competition held annually in Thurso, ScreenHI is delighted to announce we
are working with the local community in producing WAVE NORTH, or as we are
affectionately calling it, goSURF.

RADIO PODCASTING

Its getting closer but there is still time to apply.

We are looking for 6 intrepid radio producers to take part in a two day
radio packaging workshop starting Monday 11th April, followed by an
opportunity to complete your own audio package by the end of the week.
Full training in how to use recording equipment and editing software will
be given. Applications to Caithness Horizons.

SCREENINGS

Screenings of films made by Highlands and Islands filmmakers will be shown
throughout the week with a special feature screening on Friday 15th April
taking place in the centre of Thurso, outdoors! (weather permitting)

All events are free to attend though please do sign up for them
beforehand. More info can be found at Caithness Horizons Wave North
Facebook page.

That's us for now. Hope to see you at some of our events.

Thanks for reading,

Amanda Millen
Development Producer
ScreenHI

Mac Film showing at the Warehouse, Lossiemouth

2011-03-19T13:24:00.000-07:00

Film: The Turning Point - a return to community
Director: Alex Page

The age of cheap oil is over. See how this ecovillage community is preparing for a life beyond oil.
How can we turn the challenges of Peak Oil and Climate Change into an opportunity for a better world?

The Turning Point shows you how!
Shows real life examples of low carbon enterprises: It can be done!
Provides positive models of how to survive and thrive in a post-oil world"
Demonstrates what a resilient community can look like
Gives hope for a healthy future
Being screened at The Warehouse on Thursday 24th March 2010 - film starts at 7.00pm

ARTISTS' SUBMISSIONS

2011-03-17T16:35:00.001-07:00

Exhibit at Moray Art Centre – Invitation for Submissions

As Moray’s first and only public art gallery, Moray Art Centre provides
the wider Moray area with access to visual art exhibitions. The
exhibition programme features a broad programme of contemporary and
historical works of art from major public collections and from
individual artists and groups. The facility includes two excellent
gallery spaces for the exhibition of art as well as four artists studios
and three teaching studios.

Moray Art Centre is currently receiving applications from artists
seeking to exhibit. The Exhibition Committee meet six times per year to
review proposals. To be considered for inclusion at the next Exhibition
Committee meeting, artists are requested to submit applications,
according to the guidelines stated below, by Friday 29th April 2011.

Submissions will be considered using any theme or medium, although
there is limited capacity for exhibiting AV work. Artists can apply
individually or as part of a group. Please note that Moray Art Centre
does not acknowledge the receipt of proposals and will only contact
artists after the work has been considered and a decision made. Moray
Art Centre will respond by letter as soon as possible when a decision
has been made.

Please include the following in your submission:

Selection of artworks formatted as jpeg files on a non-returnable CD.
Original artwork will not be accepted. Please clearly label each
submission with artist’s name, title of work, date, media, approximate
size and price before commission if the work is for sale
A brief statement of practice
Current CV, including contact details

Please send submissions by email to exhibions@morayartcentre.org or by
post to Exhibitions Committee, Moray Art Centre, The Park, Findhorn,
Forres, Moray, IV36 3TA.

Further details about Moray Art Centre including our facilities can be
accessed on our website at http://www.morayartcentre.org/

Project-based entity

2011-03-17T05:11:00.000-07:00

Dear All,

It was decided during last night's meeting that the group will become a 'project-based' entity and meet less regularly. Currently, Tom is completing the Ideas Tap Top-Up Fund application and we are looking for 5 creative teams consisting of filmmaker, production designer/ graphic designer/ artisan to team up with a musician/ band to create a music video. The idea is that these mvids will be showcased at an event with live acoustic sets. This is an entrepreneurial venture for the Creative Moray Org and would like to encourage participation. On completion there will be scope to submit the mvids to showcase at the Go North festival aswell for increased exposure. This is a fantastic opportunity for local creatives!

We invite you to our Forum to get involved in production developments for this project. Please get onboard here;

http://creativemoray.freeforums.org/

Please do keep checking our Blog as we do hope to meet up to brainstorm for event ideas and other competitions which we could collaborate in. We hope that creatives identify that regular networking can open up sometimes 'hidden' opportunities and it's a great way to share skills, learn and pull on resources.

Kind Regards,

Anna.
Interim Secretary.

AESTHETICA MAGAZINE SHORT FILM & CREATIVE WORKS COMPETITIONS

2011-03-17T04:30:00.001-07:00

In addition to the Short Film Competition, we also run a Creative Works Competition,
which has categories for creative writing and artwork (including
sculpture, photography, ceramics and various artistic mediums). This is
now open for entries and I was hoping that you might also be able to let
your artists and networks through Moray Council know about this
opportunity?

The competition is a fantastic opportunity for both established and
aspiring artists to develop their reputations on an international scale
and all finalists are published in our sister publication, the
Aesthetica Creative Works Annual. I’ve included the full details about
the competition below and it would be fantastic if you could pass this
on to your mailing lists, many thanks again!

CALL FOR ENTRIES: AESTHETICA CREATIVE WORKS COMPETITION

The 2011 Aesthetica Creative Works Competition is now open for entries!
Aesthetica Magazine is inviting all artists, photographers, writers and
poets to submit their work into the Creative Works Competition, Now in
its fourth year, the competition is dedicated to celebrating and
championing creative talent across the disciplines and welcomes entries
from poets and writers as well as artists working in any medium,
including sculpture, textiles, photography, ceramics, paint, digital art
and more!
The Competition has three categories, Artwork & Photography, Poetry
and Fiction.
Winners and finalists are published in the Aesthetica Creative Works
Annual.
Winners of each category receive £500 prize money plus other prizes.
Entry to the Creative Works Competition is £10.
The entry fee allows the submission of 2 images, 2 poems or 2 short
stories.
The deadline for submissions is the 31st August 2011.
More guidelines on how to submit can be found online at
http://www.aestheticamagazine.com/submission_guide.htm

Many thanks for your time and I do hope that your contacts will be
interested in the opportunity.

Very best regards!

Bryony

Bryony Byrne
Marketing Officer
Aesthetica Magazine
PO Box 371
York
YO23 1WL
01904 479168
bryony@aestheticamagazine.com
www.aestheticamagazine.com ( http://www.aestheticamagazine.com/ )

Connect with Aesthetica on Facebook (
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/profile.php?id=1360358952&ref=profile
)| MySpace ( http://www.myspace.com/aestheticamagazine )| Twitter (
http://twitter.com/aestheticamag )

Keep up to date with arts and culture news on the Aesthetica blog at
aestheticamagazine.blogspot.com (
http://aestheticamagazine.blogspot.com/ )

IDEAS GENERATION WORKSHOP

2011-03-17T04:23:00.000-07:00

BUSINESS GATEWAY will be holding an IDEAS GENERATION WORKSHOP in Elgin on 24/25th March from 9.30 am - 5 pm. Please get in touch with Lynn Tel 01343 563634, or book your place by visiting them at 17 High St, Elgin.

Shared Docs

2011-03-16T07:03:00.000-07:00

Dear All,

I have now emailed links to the following Google shared docs for review/amend:

Draft Press Release and Office Space spreadsheet.

You can also access the link from a post in the Forum.

Kind Regards,

Anna.
Interim Secretary.

Next meeting Weds 16th March

2011-03-11T16:36:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone,

Just a friendly reminder to say our next meeting will take place at Brewers Fayre (Elgin) again this Wednesday from 6.30 - 8 pm (ish). Please email attendance/absence to anna@recitefilms.com, along with any items for Agenda. We look forward to seeing you there. Please note, we are happy to alternate days/times of the week to give everyone an opportunity to attend these meetings.

Best wishes,

Anna.
Interim Secretary

Next meeting is Tues 1st March

2011-02-24T16:48:00.000-08:00

Hi Guys,

Just a wee reminder that our next meeting is Tues 1st March, again from 6.30 - 8 pm (ish) at Brewsters, Elgin. Please can you email any items for Agenda to me prior, along with your attendance/absence. Thanks and please do pass the word around. Newbies are always welcome.

Cheers,

Anna.

anna@recitefilms.com

Portsoy Craft Soiree

2011-02-22T00:20:00.000-08:00

Friday 4th March, 7 till 9:30pm. A small group of artists and craftspeople will be gathering in the cosy and intimate atmosphere of Beggars Belief Coffee Cove, down by the Old Harbour in Portsoy to show, sell, and take orders for their work.

- Adrift, Wooden & Recycled Gifts, Susan Connon & Camille Rust
- Artinkulate, Decorative mini tiles, Anne Doble
- Doric Dragons, Polymer clay creations, Alita Porter
- Orwell& Goode, Screen printed textiles, Bronagh O'Kane & Zuzana Kerdova
- Pottery, Nic Whitehouse
- The Carvery, Chainsaw Sculptor, Garry Shand
- Watercolour Artist, Penny Rock
- Beading / Jewellery, Lee Wylie

Sandwiches will be provided and there will be coffee, muffins and shortbread to buy. Guests and artists alike are invited to bring their own wine to enjoy in the informal. relaxed lounge area of the venue.

Free admission.

72 Lanterns

2011-02-15T04:59:00.000-08:00

Proposed meeting - Tues 8.02.11 @ 6.30 pm

2011-01-25T09:44:00.001-08:00

Dear All,

Again, please email your attendance, along with any items for Agenda.

Please remember to login to our Freeforum, link down the right-hand side of this page. This way you can get involved in group debates and share info.

We are hoping to gain some press publicity during our next meeting, please follow the discussion on the Freeforum for ideas.

Thanks!

Anna.

Creative Culture Scotland Group

2011-01-25T03:14:00.000-08:00

Creative Culture Scotland

Nick Fearne has brought this to our attention. Worth a look!

Creative Moray on Facebook

2011-01-18T00:37:00.000-08:00

You can now find us on Facebook.com, please join us.

BECTU Training courses

2011-01-17T08:52:00.000-08:00

In partnership with the European Social Fund, BECTU are offering production training courses for media professionals in Scotland, i.e. First Aid for production sets and Data Imaging courses. For more info, please visit the BECTU site. However, as we are based in H&I Enterprise district, we are not eligible.

In order to request training in the Moray area / Inverness we must express an interest.

Please email: shortcoursescotland@bectu.org.uk and cc purquhart@stuc.org.uk.

Please show support.

Jan 2011 mtg

2011-01-10T07:19:00.000-08:00

A happy new year to all. I hope some of you managed to make the Chamber event today.

We are thinking to start off again with a meeting next Monday 17th Jan at Brewsters again, starting 6.30 - 8 pm. Please can you email me with attendance.

Thanks, I look forward to getting creative this year!

Best wishes,

Anna.

anna@recitefilms.com

Chamber of Commerce news

2010-12-04T09:13:00.000-08:00

Business summit - Ambitions for 2011, takes place at Horizon Scotland on Mon 6th Dec. Registration @ 10.30 am.

Please complete their online survey, which hopes to guage 'the mood' of local businesses as we embark on 2011 at:

http://www.newhorizon-media.co.uk/

Please also let your voice be heard and complete this survey, with regards to business impact as a result of the closure of RAF Kinloss and unknown future of RAF Lossiemouth at:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/NZVTJCZ

Save Lossie RAF Action Group have over 28,000 signatures on their petition and you can download more forms here to support their cause:

http://www.savelossie.org/updates/northern-scot-launch-petition

Nov meeting cancelled

2010-11-29T01:51:00.000-08:00

To All,

We thank you for your patience and due to weather restrictions, we have decided to reschedule this meeting. We will inform you via email and please watch Blog for updates. Thanks and enjoy the snow :-)

Nov meeting

2010-11-22T11:25:00.000-08:00

Hi Folks,

Our next Creative Moray meeting will take place on Tues 30th Nov @ 6.30 pm - 8 pm, in the upper bar area at Brewsters, Linkwood Way, Elgin IV30 1HY. (By McDonald's). Please forward items for Agenda & advise on attendance/absence for nos to me by 12 pm Fri 26th Nov (anna@recitefilms.com). I look forward to seeing you all there.

Best wishes,

Anna.

Interim Secretary.

Attention all Filmmakers, Musicians, Tour and Band Managers!

2010-10-25T01:13:00.000-07:00

Attention all Filmmakers, Musicians, Tour and Band Managers!

Wednesday 27th October 2010
The Ironworks
122b Academy Street
Inverness IV1 1LX

2pm-5pm
PRS for Music are running a seminar on music copyright. This can be minefield but Duncan McCrone and Andy Harrower will demystify this process.
Are you making short films but not sure what music you can or cannot use, and more importantly is there a cost?
Are you a musician/composer just not sure what to charge, if anything, for your creative talent on a short film, television programme or radio?
What rights should you sell/buy and what should you keep/not bother with?
What are rights and what do you have to do to 'clear' them?

If you've ever asked yourself any of the above this is a must-attend seminar for you.
We'll explain the difference in using commercial, library and specially composed music, and give an insight into blanket agreements, the latest developments with music and the internet and all will exemplified with over 20 years of music publishing experience.

Andy Harrower is Director of Broadcast Licensing at PRS for Music. Currently he is responsible for overseeing the licensing of TV and radio broadcasters in the UK, ensuring that PRS writer and publisher members are paid whenever their music is broadcast.
Duncan McCrone is Scotland's representative for PRS for Music. He looks after the songwriting and publishing community in Scotlahd and his office is the first port of call for anyone who either creates of uses music in Scotland.

5pm Networking Drinks

6pm Music Showcase with James Mackenzie (and the Aquascene)/Iain MacLaughlin
In advance of their split single, both James Mackenzie and Iain MacLaughlin will be doing a live acoustic set followed by some candid interview chat.

RSVP to Amanda Millen asap

Amanda Millen
Development Producer

Screen and Broadcast Industries for the Highlands and Islands
M: 07887 605 062

Screen HI and Creative Highland are funded by
Highlands and Islands Enterprise and ERDF

c/o Cowan House
Inverness Retail & Business Park
Inverness
IV2 7GF

www.hie.co.uk

Moray Chamber of Commerce - Smart Exporter Event

2010-10-23T11:17:00.000-07:00

Johnstons of Elgin has it, Walkers Shortbread has it, Forsyth Group has it,

Gordon & MacPhail has it and Hunted Cow Studios has it. Do you have SCOTTISH EXPORT

POTENTIAL?

Moray Chamber of Commerce is launching Scottish Export Potential.

This group will provide an opportunity for all types of business from manufacturers

to service providers from Moray and the north east to get together to discuss

export issues, network and share learning to help their business grow in a global

market. The first event will also launch Smart Exporter locally. This initiative is

supported by the European Social Fund (ESF) to help businesses export out of the

recession.

SMART EXPORTER

Smart Exporter is a range of support and training that is available largely free of

charge from Scottish Chambers International (SCI) and Scottish Development

International (SDI) and will be launched in Moray at Johnstons Heritage Centre &

Courtyard on Wednesday 10th November at 5.30pm so do come along whether you are

already exporting or whether you are just starting to think about it.  James Dracup

managing director of Johnstons of Elgin will give an inspirational talk about their

global experiences and some taster training sessions will be run on the evening by

SDI and SCI.  Private and exclusive Christmas shopping with 10% off on the evening

for attendees will take place at 7.15pm when drinks and canapés will be available

and art enthusiast Mark Gask of Gallery I will use this opportunity to show the

beautiful painting “Union Jack” by Scottish artist Jack Vettriano and talk about how

this image inspired the photograph to promote our networking platform. This original

and valuable painting will be on display for one evening only. Shopping will finish

at 9.30pm.

For the opportunity to meet with an export expert to discuss any immediate issues

that you might have then book a free place by phoning 0844 344 0000 or

e mail info@scottishchambersinternational.co.uk

Next Meeting

2010-10-23T06:13:00.001-07:00

We will be meeting with Jim Maxwell, co-op consultant from CD:Scotland, with a view to moving forward and becoming a legally binding co-operative that is limited by guarantee and goverened by members. Hence, attendance would be much appreciated.

Provisionally set for: Tues 2nd Nov, between 1 - 3 pm.
I'm awaiting confirmation of mtg space at Moray College. Please email me directly with your attendance by Monday 25th Oct.

Best,

Anna.
Interim Secretary.

anna@recitefilms.com

Business Gateway - Enterprising Moray Event 22nd Oct

2010-10-23T06:02:00.000-07:00

Thank you to those that helped out at yesterday's BGateway event: Angus, Emma and Ewen.

It was a well truned out event and proved useful in raising awareness about the group. We chatted to a number of local creatives, who have shown an interest in the group and now have details of the Blog. We also chatted to a number of prospective clients and I shall collate their details for the next meeting provisionally set for 2nd Nov from 1 - 3 pm...still awaiting attendance - please email me directly.

Rene Looper delivered a great seminar on using social media as a business tool, in which he highlighted the importance of having a fb and twitter page.

Best wishes,

Anna.
Interim Secretary.

anna@recitefilms.com

Moray Film Festival 2010

2010-10-21T16:10:00.000-07:00

Info now up @ http://www.morayfilmfestival.com/index.php/home

Next Meeting - urgent

2010-10-21T07:22:00.001-07:00

Dear All,

It's been brought to my attention that Jim Mawell of CD:Scotland (consortium co-op consultant) is going to be in Elgin on Tues 2nd Nov. This would be an ideal time to meet with him face-to-face, rather than a planned video call, in order to move the org forward into becoming a co-op.

Please advise if you can make this date between 1 - 3 pm and I shall organise accom in Elgin.

I hope to have a confirmed response by Mon 25th by the latest please.

Thank you for your support and interest in the group.

Anna.

Exhibition Space - The Venue

2010-10-16T03:33:00.000-07:00

The Venue is available for use. We are currently exhibitiing local artists work

in our bar area and we also have the big screen if it were needed to screen films.

If anyone has any questions or ideas for use please just get in touch with

Charis @ The Venue  4-6 South College street Elgin thevenueelgin@hotmail.co.uk

Business Gateway - showreel deadline

2010-10-15T08:25:00.000-07:00

To All,

If you wish to submit a showreel for the above event, please send directly to me asap. The deadline was 16th Oct. I only have 3 at the moment. This is a great opportunity to showcase the diverse creativeness within Creative Moray.

Also, we are still looking for reps on the day at Elgin Town Hall. Here is the proposed schedule, but more helpers would be great in order to spread the word at the event about our org:

Setup - Angus and Anna from 9.30 am
10am - 12.30pm - Angus and Anna
1 - 2pm - Emma
2 - 4pm - Ewen

Thanks!

Inverness Film Festival

2010-10-13T07:57:00.000-07:00

Lights, Camera, Action!
Welcome to the 8^th Inverness Film Festival - the biggest festival yet! I've worked hard to bring you a wide choice of films from different genres, directors and from across the world.

Highlights this year include ‘firsts’ from the UK in the shape of Gareth Edwards sensational Monsters, from Australia comes a slice of the dark side of Oz in David Michôd’s Animal Kingdom. From Hong Kong there’s Café Noir by the film critic turned director Jung Sung-Il and from Canada comes Jacob Tierney’s hilarious The Trotsky.

We have 15 Scottish and 3 UK premieres in the Festival this year – giving you plenty of chance to see these films first, and to vote on your favourite as a contender for the 2^nd Inverness Film Festival Audience Award. Last year’s award was won by Departures, directed by Yôjirô Takita. I imagine that Steve Dilworth’s wonderful sculpture is sitting on a mantelpiece in Japan right now, probably next to the Oscar that he won (the IFF award taking pride of place of course).

We’ll also be taking a good look at Asian cinema this year, with films including the Cannes Palm d’Or winning Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives from Thai director Apichatpong Weerasethakul and possibly the wackiest and one of the funniest films that I have ever seen; Symbol – a Japanese film by Hitoshi Matsumoto which truly has to be seen to be believed.

I’ll be around throughout the Festival and am always happy to chat. Just look for the stressed out bloke.

DOWNLOAD THE IFF BROCHURE HERE - then sit back and enjoy!

I hope to see you at the Festival!

PAUL TAYLOR, DIRECTOR

Our mailing address is:

Eden Court Theatre

Bishops Road

Inverness, Inverness-shire IV3 5SA

Glasgow School of Art to open in Forres

2010-10-13T03:30:00.000-07:00

http://www.hie.co.uk/about-hie/news-and-media/archive/glasgow-school-of-art-to-open-in-forres.html

Source: HIE, 7.10.10.

Co-operative

2010-10-08T16:07:00.000-07:00

Definition:

An autonomous association of persons united voluntarily to meet their common economic, social and cultural needs and aspirations, through a jointly owned and democratically controlled enterprise.

The purpose of a co-operative is to engage with outside business on behalf of it's members. Common goals could be:

joint application to grant bodies;
common suppliers;
buying/ selling;
joint marketing;
sharing premises...

Emma Cooper, Craig Robertson and myself were fortunate to attend today's 'Co-operative' presentation @ Horizon Scotland, hosted by Moray Chamber of Commerce and felt it was relevant to what we are trying to achieve with CM. I feel it would be beneficial for the group if Emma and I were to report our findings at the forthcoming meeting for discussion. I have made contact with Jim Maxwell of CDS (Co-operative Development Scotland), who are a support agency for co-operatives (free of charge) - based in Glasgow - but they are keen to provide advice and support and have many case scenarios, which we can identify with.

A valuable quote:

"Collaboration is no longer a 'nice-to-have'. In a tightening economic environment, collaboration is becoming a competitive necessity." Harper McLeod LLP.

Old Maps and New - Highlands and Islands Culture and the Economy 12th & 13th Nov

2010-10-08T16:05:00.000-07:00

Old Maps and New - Highlands and Islands Culture and the Economy

*Please note the unfortunate date clash of this event with Moray Film Festival *

A Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE)/Creative Scotland conference, celebrating the last and the next 20 years of communities and culture in the Highlands and Islands is to be held in Inverness in November.

In 1991 the newly-formed HIE organised a ground-breaking conference on the Social and Economic Impact of the Arts in the Highlands and Islands. Almost two decades on, and thanks to the agenda laid down by that conference, the cultural landscape of the area has grown beyond recognition.

Chris Higgins, head of culture and the third sector at HIE commented: “Much has changed in the 20 years since HIE organised its first conference to explore the social and economic importance of the arts to the region. Many parts of the Highlands and Islands now have access to levels of cultural and artistic provision undreamt of in 1991. Artists and cultural companies from the area are achieving national and international success. A report discussed then indicated that £1.34 million was generated by visitors to cultural events. Visitor expenditure for Highland 2007 was £6.1 million. ”

He added: “Faced with the prospect of shrinking resources we must nurture social entrepreneurship and look innovatively at models to grow creative activity in our communities. Bringing together the people involved in the sector will let us ask what the creative and cultural landscape of the Highlands and Islands will look like in 2020.”

The title of the upcoming conference to be held on November 12 and 13 is ‘Old Maps and New’, the title of a Norman MacCaig poem. The event coincides with the 100^th anniversary of the birth of the great Scottish poet whose heartland is acknowledged to be Assynt, in North West Sutherland. Included in the programme will be events to mark this centenary, organised in association with the Poetry Library in Edinburgh and Top Left Corner, the literature organisation based in Assynt.

The establishment of Creative Scotland as the leading cultural agency for Scotland now offers an ideal opportunity to look to the future. Andrew Dixon, Chief Executive of Creative Scotland, will be a keynote speaker at the event. He commented: “The value of culture and creativity to Scotland’s communities cannot be underestimated and developments in the Highlands and Islands have shown it adds socially, culturally and economically to the region. Creative Scotland will play a role in investing in ‘places’ around Scotland and I welcome the chance to be part of this future look at the cultural and creative strengths and sustainable models of development for the Highlands and Islands."

The conference programme will combine presentations, case studies, commissioned papers, debates and panel discussions. As well as Mr Dixon, speakers will include Willy Roe, Chair of Highlands and Islands Enterprise and Seona Reid, Director of Glasgow School of Art, who was a speaker at the original 1991 conference in her then role as Director of the Scottish Arts Council.

November 2010 also marks the 20^th anniversary of HI~Arts, the arts development agency for the Highlands and Islands, which was originally established by HIE, and whose early work was closely guided by the outcomes of the 1991 conference. HI~Arts is acting as coordinator of this event on behalf of HIE.

Booking for the conference will open on 30^th August, when a fuller programme will be available. To receive details of these booking arrangements, please e-mail HYPERLINK "mailto:info@hi-arts.co.uk"info@hi-arts.co.uk putting ‘conference’ in the subject line.

Thanks to Craig Robertson for forwarding!

Looking for Budding Film Makers

2010-10-07T04:12:00.000-07:00

Do you want to make your own films? Would you like to see your work on the big screen?

Moray Film Festival presents the ‘One Minute Film’ Competition. Your film should be based around the theme IDENTITY in One Minute. No technical excellence is required and the judging panel are looking to be entertained: good story, well told, engaging and exciting. No barriers, creative, original, a universal story.

This is your opportunity to shine. The winning film will be screened on the final evening of the festival being hosted by BAFTA in Scotland.

Your entry should be delivered to Moray Film Festival, c/o Anna Templeton, Moray College by Friday 12 noon on Friday 12^th November.

Note:

The Film Festival’s main events will run from 10^th to 12^th November, with a wide range of workshops and screenings, delivered by industry experts. Programmes and website will be available shortly. In the meantime, for further information, please contact Mairi McIntosh, telephone 01343 563493 e-mail mairi.mcintosh@moray.gov.uk

Next Meeting

2010-10-07T01:06:00.000-07:00

Date: Friday 15th October
Time: 13:30 - 15:00
Location: Moray Art Centre, The Park, Findhorn IV36 3TA

Next Meeting

2010-09-27T00:50:00.000-07:00

This meeting has been canceled, due to a large number of people not being able to make it on the day.

Date: Friday 1st October
Time: 13:30 - 15:00
Location: Moray College

Creative Moray Forums

2010-09-17T08:09:00.000-07:00

Just to let everybody know that I have set up a private forum for use by the members of our group.

http://creativemoray.freeforums.org

As I say this is a private forum and with the exception of the Introductions Area all other content is private and can only be viewed by our members. Please drop in and sign up. I'm on the look out for spammers so if your email address looks suspect... well I'll likely not let you in ;)

Issues for Agenda (Fri 17th Sept, 2010)

2010-09-13T08:23:00.000-07:00

Dear Members,

As acting secretary, please email me with your issues for agenda by midday Thursday.

Thanks,

Anna.

Next Meeting

2010-09-08T06:46:00.000-07:00

The next meeting of our group will be on Friday 17th September at Moray College, Elgin. The room is booked for 13.30, and we have the space until 15.00.

Please register at reception on arrival and you'll be directed to the room.

Please feel free to invite other creatives along, the greater the range of skills we have available the better this will be for all of us.

Film G: Directing Tutorials Inverness 11-12 Sept / Film Competition

2010-09-08T06:41:00.000-07:00

FILM-MAKING TUTORIALS
INVERNESS VOLUNTEER CENTRE

One-to-one tutorials with experienced professionals.
1.5 hour tutorials on the following topics:

Directing for Drama

Directing a Gaelic film for a non-Gaelic speaker

Visualising and designing your film

Applicants must submit a synopsis of their film when applying.
Participation is free but places are limited. Book NOW!

To register contact Helen:
01471 888513 - fios@filmg.co.uk
For more information visit our website at www.filmg.co.uk

Enterprising Moray - engaging with your business support network

2010-09-03T09:23:00.000-07:00

In follow up to today's unanimous vote in favour of our organisation being represtented at the forthcoming BGateway event to be held at the Elgin Town Hall on 22nd Oct (10am - 4pm), we are required to provide the following information by next Fri 10th - hence the need for urgency:

What we require from you –

- Please send us one paragraph (50-70 words) describing your organisation, and outlining how you can help Moray businesses to achieve their key objectives.
- Please send us your company logo in colour JPEG format
- Please advise if you require any additional equipment for your stand (e.g. tables, chairs, electrical sockets)
- Please confirm who will be hosting your stand
- Kay Giles will be in touch with you regarding any opportunities for promoting the event through your organisation (e.g. on your website, e-newsletters, posters)
- Can you offer any incentive for the attendees to come and speak to you at the event, rather than contacting your directly? E.g. 10% off membership if you join at the event, free consultation session, advice from a renowned specialist? We will then promote this offer in our event communication

It would be the perfect opportunity to showcase our talents at present and I would be happy to edit together a showreel of digital works for this event: beit a film promo, short film, video montage, music clip over stills etc....just ideas. It was agreed that this event would be a good platform to help raise our org's profile.

I am confident that we will be able to create a mission statement and brand in time for their print deadline. I look forward to hearing from people.

Equipment - we would need to hire/beg/borrow a screen/monitor and laptop for this event. Also, it may be a good idea to stagger attendance? There seems to be 13 members in total just now, possibly 2 people per hour (3 people for last hour)?

Thanks, I look forward to hearing from you.

Next meeting

2010-08-20T01:46:00.001-07:00

The next meeting of our group will be on Friday 3rd September in Room B5 at Moray College, Elgin. The room is booked for 13.30, and we have the space until 15.00.

Please register at reception on arrival and you'll be directed to the room.

Please feel free to invite other creatives along, the greater the range of skills we have available the better this will be for all of us.

Dog tag

2010-08-17T17:32:00.000-07:00

Hello resident members. Fortunately, I won't be attending the next meeting, due to work commitments (that's a good thing, as it means I am earning). In my absence, please accept the following 'dog tags' for debate, with my favourite first:

Reel Blethr
Digital: Blethr
Blethr sparks
Motion Blethr
Creatives Blethr

...you can see where I was going with this. I think it's important to capture our primary art (skill) and relate to Doric too - in support of our locale? Are other people in agreement with this too? I shall keep 'thinking' and scribbling logos too. Thanks, Anna.

A Statement of Sorts

2010-08-13T05:37:00.000-07:00

The Creative Industries is an important sector for development in Scotland. We have a vast pool of creative and inspirational people many of whom go completely unrecognized or who are forced to take other work because it is difficult for them to gain the recognition they need to push their talent into the professional arena.

We in Moray have chosen to take matters into our own hands by forming an association of like minded talented people who want to collaborate to gain recognition of their skills and make things happen for them.

Part of this new direction is to use web media to archive and showcase our many and varied talents, and that, in a nut shell is the purpose of this blog. This blog will be a central repository for links to our various works, to act as a showcase of our talents and portal through which companies and others can find us and access the abilities we have to offer.

There is more to come, soon...