As Manchester Film Festival 2021 kicks off, Alex King spoke to Manchester-based filmmakers Charlie Watts, Jason Wingard, Mike Ogden and Kieran Stringfellow about their films which are on show at the festival.
‘Financial impact has been absolutely devastating’: art venue managers and artists on the Covid crisis toll
To support struggling creative workers art organisations have joined forces to create the Greater Manchester Artist Hub. Many self-employed and freelance artists have been left without support by the government. Two artists tell of their Covid pandemic experiences.
Breathing life back into Tom Paine’s bones – graphic novel aims to resurrect neglected political reformer
Thomas Paine was a radical human rights and political reform advocate whose work inspired the American Revolution and the formation of a democratic United States.
Artist Paul Fitzgerald is determined to re-tell the story of this forgotten hero whose work still has valid lessons to be learned in these stormy times for democracies worldwide. Kickstarter campaign aims to get this graphic novel project over the finish line. Paul answers The Meteor’s questions on why he wants to graphically re-tell Tom’s story to a new audience.
Urmston couple launch Small Markets online platform for craft goods
The online marketplace built by Chris and Amy Monaghan of Urmston, Trafford, aims to provide a lifeline to the many craft artisans who are struggling to sell their goods due to lockdown restrictions.
The Factory arts venue faces huge funding shortfall
Originally costing £110m, The Factory arts centre is now expected to cost £186m and the project is currently tens of millions short of its target. Manchester City Council say they can’t fill the gap because of the dire financial straits they face due to Covid.
‘John Cooper Clarke meets Scroobius Pip’ – BODIES release Endless Summer EP
Manchester based BODIES new Endless Summer EP is reviewed by Ushiku Crissafulli: ‘A sensually immersive journey through the inner-city hip-hop experience’ with ‘pure Manc hip-hop vibes.’
‘Celebrating Syria: A Festival of Arts and Culture’ showcases Syria beyond the war- torn media depiction
Syria is the focus of this art festival, organised by Manchester charity Rethink Rebuild Society, which aims to provide an escape from the oppression of the pandemic and celebrate the culture and people of this currently troubled country.