Sinopticon - The request

Sensing Obscurity

              Erika Tan

What happens to symbols of cultural dominance when the world order shifts?

The moving image project seeks a post-colonial reclamation to the possibility of telling stories through the use of a multiplicity of narrative devices. The premise is that it is in the way that histories/stories are told that produces and re-produces untold stories, narratives and events. Set in Saltram House, an English Manor House (now National Trust property), the film takes place ‘some point in the not so distant future’, at a moment in time when Chinas ascendance as a global power has given rise to an opportunity to re-visit history differently. Using a mixture of documentary and narrative film tropes, the cut and paste aesthetics of hip-hop and chinoiserie; Saltram House, history as we know it under-goes a slippery transition in an attempt to remain relevant and shore-up its status as cultural capital.

This project is commissioned by Eliza Gluckman and is part of the Sinopticon www.sinopticon.org. It is a collaboration with Plymouth Art College (Gallery and Film Art Department), The National Trust, Saltram House, Plymouth Art Centre, Plymouth Museum and Art Gallery.

Practicalities: Information for crew

Dates: Filming takes place week of 2^nd – 6^th Jan 2012. There will be some prep involved and some post-production. Crew involved will need to be able to commit this time in full. (currently there is a further meeting and recce for selected crew on the 12^th/13^th December which will run through logistics, shooting plans etc. There might also be possible meetings on the 5/6^th Dec if needed.)

Expectations: Crew will be expected to be multi-tasking, professional in approach, responsive to direction but also be able to use their initiative.  They will also need to be honest about when they feel out of their depth; this is also a learning situation. They will need to understand and adhere to any protocols and Health and Safety regulations as set out by The National Trust (this is where we will be filming) and be aware at all times that the success of the project will be dependant on their behaviour, attitude, care, diligence as much as it will be dependant on their skills, creative approaches and organisational abilities. 

In return crew will be credited for the work and roles they have participated in. Daily travel costs from college to Saltram House and food will be covered. Depending on how many crew members we have etc, there may also be a small fee available, but this will be pretty minimal and won’t be confirmed till closer to January.