Creative Times - News

£5m available for collaborative creative industries projects

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

The Technology Strategy Board is to invest an indicative £5m in a programme to help digital content creators and rights holders realise and maximise the commercial return potential from their intellectual property (IP).

Opening in March 2009 the programme is looking for proposals to develop applications that can be deployed across the digital content sector to extend market opportunities and promote the commercial exploitation of IP for content creators and rights holders. Projects can include development of new business models; applications for improving access to collecting revenue from content; solutions to broaden access to content; and the development of tools to support new value chains, among others.

There will be two levels of application for projects above and below £100k in value, but in each case there must be clear collaboration between a number of organisations or institutions. To find out more go to [www.innovateuk.org](http://www.innovateuk.org) or register at to be able to download the necessary documents.

Affordable art for all

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Mooch is showing lots and lots of original work in the run up to Christmas. The aim is to bring the price with reach of everyone which is why "Mooch collectibles" were introduced to offer smaller framed work from £30.

Pop along to the gallery on Oldham street and you just might find a present for someone that will make you look thoughtful and caring. And they need never know.

NHS pitch win for Bourn Design

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Bourn design have been picked to redesign the Stepping Hill Hospital website. The board were very impressed with the online solution, so much in fact that the new online brand style that was set will now influence the offline branding including internal communication.
It's the 5th win for Bourn in this, their 1st year, Creative Director Mark Stringer was pleased "we are working very hard on each and every project that we set our sights on and its resulted in referrals and reorders causing a very fast growth of business in our 1st year"

Liquid Capture Tiger

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Onitsuka Tiger, the legendary Japanese sports heritage brand, is teaming up with liquid for a top secret project. Due to the highly classified nature of what we are doing we can’t release any details at present but, needless to say, it’s an extremely exciting and original project.

Onitsuka Tiger is famed for its original ideas and epoch defining techniques, both in terms of the products it makes and the way that it’s marketed - only last year they brought the first ever trainer vending machine over to London. Liquid is delighted to have the chance to work with them and maintain their tradition of producing original and innovative ideas.

And, while we can’t say anything now, we do promise that we will tell you all about it as soon as we possibly can - when everything will become clear.

href="http://www.liquidsolution.co.uk/enewsletter/newsletter004/onitsukatiger/index.htm">www.liquidsolution.co.uk

Indie Quarter's Countdown to Christmas

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Starting on 20th November design blog, IndieQuarter.com will be counting down to Christmas by featuring a stocking filler every week day. All of the items will be under £15 and made by independent designers, makers, artists and crafters.

If you're a designer / maker and would like to be involved please apply at www.indiequarter.com/featured.php and make a note in the Stocking Filler box. There is no charge for inclusion.

This slot will run right up to 20th December, which is the last UK 1st class posting date.

For further details and to apply go to www.indiequarter.com.

IndieQuarter.com is owned and managed by Vanilla Storm Limited.

Terence Davies podcast for NFN

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Littlestar is producing a monthly series of podcasts for the Northern Film Network on filmmkers and filmmaking in the north west.

The latest is an exclusive new podcast with British director Terence Davies. Maria Gabriella spoke to Terence before a screening of his latest film Of Time and the City at FACT.

Download the interview in mp3 or m4a at
http://littlestar.tv/northern-film-network-podcasts/

Festival Consortium Successfully raises standards for UK Outdoor arts towards 2012

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Cohesive approach brings a new
platform for national touring and an

unparalleled opportunity for British artists

9 dynamic British companies and artists commissioned and supported
in 2008
x.trax Manchester success

A strengthened sector towards 2012

New partnerships with local authorities to be sought

Without Walls is a consortium of 7 of the UK's most significant street arts festivals: x.trax Manchester; Winchester Hat Fair; The Bristol Do; Brighton Festival; Norfolk and Norwich Festival; Greenwich + Docklands International Festival; Stockton International Riverside Festival.

A pioneering and compelling organisation, Without Walls is a new model for the strategic presentation and development of outdoor performance in the UK, successfully helping to strengthen both the landscape and profile of the festival arts sector.

With Arts Council England support, the consortium has created a touring platform to provide an unparalleled opportunity for new and emerging British Street Arts. A total of 9 dynamic companies and artists (details below) have been commissioned and supported by Without Walls to perform across the 7 member festivals in 2008.

This multiple platform opportunity is helping to build career paths for British artists, launching some of the best work from the UK onto the world stage and raising the bar in the sector through innovative collaboration and investment in new talent and ideas.

Working together, the Without Walls festivals, including x.trax Manchester, are increasing cohesion for the street arts sector, helping to develop the British arts economy and to promote the best of British culture overseas. By creating a more secure environment in which new work can flourish and be developed the partnership is strengthening the street arts sector towards 2012.

Manchester’s x.trax hosted 8 of the carefully selected Without Walls commissioned companies this summer. Considered to be the UK’s most important international showcase festival, x.trax has welcomed over 2000 delegates from 36 countries since 1997, with 76% of performing artists going on to receive further national and international bookings.

“Without Walls has made a terrific impact on the company; it was a crucial opportunity to take such a new piece of work to lots of festivals in one season and it is wonderful to be playing to such large and appreciative audiences. We are reaching more people than we typically do in venues.” Tim Tubbs, Without Walls commission 2008

Outdoor arts are now being recognized for their ability to encourage change, to engage and bring together communities and to shape a sense of place and identity. Outdoor arts are uniquely democratic: free, accessible and suited equally to both distinct and shared cultural expression.
Through building closer working relationships with local authorities, Without Walls has the capacity to develop sustainable partnerships and help put outdoor work at the centre of our national cultural life.

Next year as we enter the four years of the Cultural Olympiad the Without Walls consortium are looking to extend the partnership to include selected local authorities and other partners to work with on specific commissions and presentations that will provide participating cities local engagement, a sense of being part of a national project and international profile.

In the context of the 2012 Olympics, organisers of major events will have every opportunity to call on artists based in this country to deliver iconic, transformational moments.

The chair of Without Walls is Bradley Hemmings, the director of Greenwich + Docklands International Festival. He says: “We currently have an incredible opportunity for UK street arts. Since 2007 we have been working to raise the standards and quality of street performance in this country, and recent Arts Council England investment is supporting pioneering new work and emerging artists and initiating a new era of creative growth. The winners will be both audiences and artists. The revitalised circuit of festivals across England is now well placed to meet the exciting challenges of 2012 and the Cultural Olympiad.”

Michael Eakin, Executive Director of Arts Council England, North West said "Without Walls is a brilliant example of leaders in a sector coming together to create something which is greater than a sum of all of its parts and which couldn't have happened without them working jointly in this way"

Supported by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.

DMEX connects TV professionals with Digital Media companies

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Northwest Vision and Media, working with The White Room, are offering Digital Media companies a unique opportunity to host an experienced TV professional.

DMEX (the Digital Media Exchange) aims to exchange skills and knowledge between the two sectors - through paid 4-week placements that are also supported by mentoring and professional development. Companies already on the scheme are making use of television scriptwriters, directors and producers.

The scheme will continue until March 2009, though places are limited, so if you’re a Northwest-based digital company or TV professional (with 3 years+ experience) and you’re interested in taking part, email Phil Birchenall at dmex@visionandmedia.co.uk

This activity is funded by the Digital and Media Skills Programme, delivered by Northwest Vision and Media in partnership with Skillset, and supported by the North West Development Agency.

LOVE created 2008 BBC Children In Need packs

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Manchester, Friday 14th November 2008: Creative agency LOVE designed the 2008 BBC Children In Need fundraising pack. The BBC charity aims to send out 300,000 packs in English or Welsh to UK schools, previous donors and other requests.

LOVE, who has a strong relationship with BBC Children in Need, redesigned the packs to be engaging and inspiring in keeping with the strap-line ‘Do Something Different’. The creative agency considered what the charity does and created three separate books, plus a fundraising scratch card, sticker sheet, sponsorship form along with a personalised paying in letter. The booklets are:

What we Do: outline all the work BBC Children in Need does throughout the year and importantly where the donations go;

How you Do: offers top fundraising advice on how to make events successful and effective, the booklet folds out into a handy wall planner;

Fun stuff to Do: features what inspiring activities groups, schools, individuals and workplaces did last year to raise money. This booklet also features the BBC Children in Need and partner merchandise.

The fundraising packs have been mailed out since September and will continue to be sent out right up until the main event today Friday November 14.

LOVE have also designed a follow-up thank you mailing with personalised keepsake certificates.

BBC Children in Need, Campaign and Fundraising Manager, Liz Woodham said; “This year’s fundraising pack not only provides the tools and inspiration for the public to Do Something Different to raise money on our behalf, but it represents the thousands of disadvantaged children and young people around the UK whom we are able to support because of the generosity of our fundraisers, donors and partners each year.”

Subscribe by 21 November to receive CREATIVE Times

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

2008 has marked a new era for the UK’s first journal for the Creative Industries, with the launch of creativetimes.co.uk and a new way of keeping up-to-date with what’s happening in our creative community.

We at CIDS are currently working on the December edition of CREATIVE Times, packed with news, features, interviews, expert know-how and opinion. But, you need to subscribe by 21 November to receive it. There are two ways to ensure you continue to have Creative Times delivered through your letterbox:

You can create a profile for your business or organisation to add to the CREATIVE Times directory and receive a complimentary copy of each edition of CREATIVE Times as part of
the package. A profile allows you to showcase your portfolio of work to potential clients and partners and post your own news, events, vacancies and opportunities straight to the site – it’s also the easiest way to get your business into CREATIVE Times e-news and CREATIVE
Times print. Annual subscription for a profile is just £30.

You can subscribe to receive a years supply of CREATIVE Times (four editions) for just £10.

Had a login for the old CIDS website? You can use it to log into the CREATIVE Times website and up-date your details.

Already registered with the CREATIVE Times website? Login and follow the instructions to Create a Profile or Subscribe to the print version of CREATIVE Times.

CIDS is a not-for profit limited company. Any surplus income is invested back into our services to support the creative industries.

If you have any problems subscribing please email web@creativetimes.co.uk

Strictly digital...

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Underwraps Event Choreography are a leading UK company renowned for supplying creative dance and entertainment concepts. Having enjoyed a successful working partnership with HGA on live events, Underwraps asked HGA to redesign their website to provide a suitable online showcase for their exciting talent.

HGA produced a clean intuitive design, including large-scale colourful background images that deliver the visual movement and energy associated with Underwraps. Video showreels were incorporated into the site, to give viewers a sense of the excitement and atmosphere the Underwraps team deliver.

HGA also designed a 4-page leaflet to support the launch of the new site, making good use of the stunning photography featured on the site.

Going forward HGA will be expanding the site, with emphasis on the inclusion of new high quality video which will further emphasize the movement, colour and entertainment Underwraps provide.

“I am delighted with what the team at HGA have done for the Underwraps website so far,” said our client. “They have grasped the essential elements of what we do as a company and have conveyed that with their fantastic design and imagery. Throughout the design process they kept me continuously updated and I felt that they really listened to feedback and responded accordingly. We’ve had a great response to the new website already and now I can’t wait to see the next phase!”

Take a look at the site at http://www.underwraps.co.uk

For further information and to see how HGA can put some life back into your online presence call Michael Wiggins on 0161 776 7042 or email mwiggins@hgacreative.com

Wellings Report on University IP published today

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Back in March, the UK Secretary of State for Innovation Universities and Skills, John Denham, invited the Vice Chancellor of Lancaster University, Paul Wellings to look at the issue of university intellectual property and research benefits. The question posed was "how universities should manage their IP for their own benefit and the wider economy". This work was one of a number of external contributions to a broader Higher Education Debate.

Paul Wellings report has been published today, for details and links to the report site click here.

Feel free to post your reactions to this report or up-load any other related material to the IP forum.

World Traveller Lorelei Loveridge Launches New CD 'Bakhoor'

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

UK Album Launch of Bakhoor By Lorelei Loveridge

Saturday, November 29—7 PM
Nexus Art Café, Northern Quarter, Manchester
Corner of Dale and Oldham Streets, M1 1JW
Free and all ages welcome.

Lorelei Loveridge lived for 11 years in Saudi Arabia, pre and post 9/11, and loved it. She experienced religious zealots, compound invasions, a terrorist chase, earthquake, tsunami, war in Lebanon, crazy drivers, nutty expats and more, and survived to tell the tales in story and song.

Her physical, personal, and musical journey is documented in Bakhoor, a 4-year, 15-song album project recorded in India, Canada and Saudi Arabia. It features some of the finest players from across the globe including Brian Hughes (producer of Loreena McKennitt), Harry Manx and Lester Quitzau.

A contemporary acoustic songwriter who draws comparisons with Tracy Chapman and Joni Mitchell, Loveridge pairs a passionate political sense with an understanding of the complex personal stories that go beyond politics. Loveridge and Canadian producer Rob Hewes have woven the sounds of tabla, oud, darbuka, Tibetan overtone chants, violin, bazouki, Latin/African/slide blues guitar into a richly-textured, multicultural tour-de-force. While "Home is Where the Heart Is"—a song about the pain of a mother and her Palestinian daughter—is the first single off of the album, U.S. songwriter and guitar legend Dick Wagner says this of Loveridge and Bakhoor: "Her vocals are hauntingly emotive, her songs are beautifully structured folk/pop creations and her musicians are world-class interpreters of her musical vision…The brilliant 'Oh, India' sets the tone and atmosphere for this musical journey…a journey you won't forget. I personally love Lorelei's music and recommend it to all seekers of sophisticated yet accessible music."

Orderly Bazaar Records & Publishing celebrates the UK release of the album with a 'majlis' or Saturday night sit-in at the arty, cozy, tea and cake serving Nexus Art Café. Lorelei Loveridge will be joined by her very special band plus special guests Zoe Mulford of the U.S. (award-winning American singer-songwriter), Rosie Smith of Cornwall, U.K. (multi-instrumental performing/recording artist), and lisa b of Canada (queer spoken-word poet), while Dave Puller of Manchester, U.K. (poet/writer/performer and satirist) hosts the evening. Adding to the ambience will be Arabesque music between sets and a slide show of Lorelei's travel photography.

This may possibly be the last major UK performance of 2008 and 2009, as Loveridge has signed to management in India/UAE and Canada and looks forward to taking Bakhoor back to some of the places that inspired it.

Prosper NW - Match Funding Available

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Design Initiative, a specialist regional development agency, is looking for partners in the North West to apply for funding to support the development of creative businesses in their area.

Through our Prosper NW project, Design Initiative has the ability to offer Arts Council funding to deliver an opportunity for professional development - such as a seminar or a workshop or maybe something less traditional such as an evening social with keynote speaker or perhaps a web based learning opportunity? The subject matter or theme covered will deliver a learning opportunity to the benefit of the creative economy and increase employability and sustainability.

To date, Prosper has delivered business outputs for local agencies working in Carlisle, Kendal, St Helens, Knowsley, Frodsham, Bolton, Preston, Macclesfield, and Stockport.

All the administration, marketing and logistics of Prosper will be taken care of by Design Initiative. Timings can also fit in with any other initiatives you may have planned or are hoping to schedule for next year.

This funding is limited to one partner per North West sub-region (Merseyside, Greater Manchester, Cheshire, Cumbria, Lancashire). The funding will be given on a first come, first served basis to match £1500-£1700 per partner.

Deadline for reply: Friday 21st November 2008

Contact Alex Lamb on 0161 834 3722 or email her: alex@designinit.org.uk

www.prospernw.org.uk

Free Intellectual Property Advice

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Own-it North offers a free online enquiry service for anyone looking to get answers to their Intellectual Property questions, so if you’re stuck in a position where you’re looking for help, then we are the people for you.

We will be running IP Clinics with our lawyers on Monday 1st December, so if you need help on a pressing issue or have a specific IP question, contact our specialist advice team who, if appropriate, will refer you for a free 1-to-1 advice session with a leading law firm.

Go to www.own-it.org/advice and follow the instructions to get your IP and business questions and issues answered, consulted or discussed.

New Studios at AWOL for 2009

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

AWOL Studios plans to expand onto a new floor in 2009 and is taking deposits and registering interest now. Its new location in Hope Mill has been so popular that Studios have been oversubscribed!

Artists love the secure private spaces, the central heating, the large free car park, plus the big windows, 24 hour access, and large lifts, so they are going to build more which should be ready early in the new year.

Come and join us at the AWOL Studios Open Studio event on 5th December (See Events section), and see what we have done so far, and take a peak at the space we plan to develop.
Contact Phil Walton at philwalton@aol.com or 07968 361 506.

Christmas by Colour

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Is it that garish pink colour of your Auntie’s lipstick or the golden brown crust of a freshly baked mince pie?

Frustrated at the plethora of Christmas reds, whites and greens those pesky designers at Raw Design Studio are exploring what colours people really associate with their Christmas.

Whatever colour sums up Christmas for you, let us know and you could become part of our pantone inspired Christmas poster.

Visit www.christmasbycolour.co.uk to join in the festivities.

Inspiral's business support portal

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

"Help Kick-start your start-up Business"

In a challenging economic climate every new business needs all the help it can get to succeed. Their chances of success will be greatly enhanced in October with the launch of the new Inspiral business support portal.

Sheffield based Inspiral is the UK's leading provider of specialist support to startup businesses having assisted over 500 businesses to start to trade in the past three years.

Inspiral is launching a ‘one-stop-shop' business support portal for aspirational entrepreneurs. Enter a virtual world of practical advice from leading experts and valuable tools to help kick-start your startup business and share your experiences and tips with other successful entrepreneurs. Submit your ‘Elevator Pitch' and get it rated by the Queen of Pitches.

The NEW Inspiral business support portal features:
• Access to business advice from experts in their field
• Exclusive network of likeminded entrepreneurs
• Specially commissioned startup guides
• Exclusive video interviews with experts and entrepreneurs
• The ultimate online tool kit:
o Web builder
o E-commerce
o Virtual office
o Email marketing

All for a very affordable monthly subscription.

Inspiral Managing Director, Phil Shankland, says "The new Inspiral portal is a response to what all our startup clients said they wanted - access to expert advice, helpful tools to grow their business and a vibrant community of likeminded entrepreneurs."

Pre register your interest at www.inspiral.biz

‘Arctic Monkeys At The Apollo’ DVD on sale now!

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Inspiral have co-financed the recently released ‘Arctic Monkeys At The Apollo‘ film and DVD - with a novel distribution and promotion strategy. Working in partnership with the band's management company, Warp Films and Creative Sheffield the team sought to emulate the Arctic Monkey's initial success of turning a business model on its head and creating a new route to market, this time on the big screen.

Phil Shankland said: "The meteoric rise of the Arctic Monkeys through the internet effectively called time on the music industry's stranglehold over the release of new music. We worked together to devise a way of turning the world of cinema on its head and open the door to new generation of film producers who would be traditionally locked out of the mainstream by the multi-million pound distribution industry."

The initiative saw the film distributed to 40 cinemas nationwide and 25 others in cities across Europe for a one night only screening followed by a worldwide DVD launch.

Check out http://www.arcticmonkeysattheapollo.com to buy your DVD now!

Creative Futures

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Join us at Manchester Town Hall 18 - 19 November 2008 for a unique networking event for new creative talent with leading industry companies and high profile NOISEfestival.com curators such as Badly Drawn Boy, Stella Vine, Noki and Wayne Hemingway.

Over 30 creative and media organisations are set to attend, including MTV, BBC Radio, Zaha Hadid Architects, Warp Films, Big Active, Graham & Brown Wallpapers, Magnetic North, Ten Alps, Computer Arts, Super Super, Amelia’s Magazine…and many more to be confirmed at www.NOISEfestival.com/CreativeFutures

This special two day event hosted by the online arts showcase NOISEfestival.com will feature:

Portfolio reviews – ‘One to One’ sessions with NOISE curators – No nonsense career advice – Dream Job placements – Debates – Open acoustic stage – The Best of NOISE 2008 showcase – Live blogging – Media exposure

The event will be presented as an ‘Indoor Festival’ inside the historic Great Hall and Reception Room, and will feature customised tents from NOISE artists, four individual portfolio review areas and a seminar/workshop space. Mr Scruff will also be providing refreshments from his festival tea tent.

The event is part of the NOISE Dream Jobs scheme, which was launched by Chancellor Alistair Darling in June 2008. The scheme brokers work placements for the best NOISE artists in creative companies at the top of their field. Previous Dream Job placements include MTV Brazil (Trailer Animation), MacKinnon & Saunders (model makers for Hollywood Director Tim Burton) and Hemingway Design (Architecture & Product Design). NOISE Dream Jobs for 2009 will be announced during the Creative Futures event.

The VIP Opening Event and Press Launch at Manchester Town Hall on Tuesday 18th November 2008 from 18.00-20.00 features NOISE curators and their selected talent, including Badly Drawn Boy and his top choices from the Music category and Noki’s NHS (Noki’s House of Sustainability) catwalk mash-up of the best NOISE Fashion.

The ‘Creative Futures Manchester’ event is FREE to attend. For the best chance of a ‘One to One’ meeting with a top professional, talent needs to pre-register before Sunday 16th November 2008. Latecomers can still register at the event.
To attend you need to:

1) Be 25 and under
2) Sign up as an artist at www.NOISEfestival.com
3) Bring 4-6 examples of your work Creative Futures

Manchester is funded by Manchester City Council and supported by Council Leader Richard Leese.

NOISEfestival.com is an Arts Council and NWDA-funded biennial online arts showcase, which has so far reached 6,000 young artists. NOISE Executive Producer Denise Proctor set up the Manchester-based national charity in 2005 and is available for interviews.

“There are many creative economy schemes that focus on traditional routes from education into employment, and fail to help young people break into the area of the creative industry that’s relevant to them. The NOISE ‘Creative Futures’ networking event is open to young creatives regardless of education and background – and our work placement partnerships with leading innovative organisations ensure that the best young artists get the right practical experience on their CV.”
Denise Proctor, Executive Producer, NOISEfestival.com

The first NOISE Festival in 2006 received 5,000 submissions. The 2008 Festival received over 9,000 submissions in categories including Music, Fashion, Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, Moving Image, New Media, Product Design, Architecture, Photography and Word.

“Every case is different, but in the end young artists need to invent themselves and be with people of their own age and try and establish a new generation. That’s why I like NOISEfestival.com, as it’s a little push to encourage people to establish their own voice.”
Norman Rosenthal, former Head of Exhibitions at the Royal Academy of Art

“I think in every design commercial area, whether it’s graphic, architecture, fashion, every year there’s a new wave of designers coming though colleges and art schools. I think it’s really important for these guys to come through and enter competitions like this for their work to be seen by others, by their peers, by potential employers. For me just being involved in that, if we can give them a little bit of advice and encouragement it can only be a good thing.”
James Sommerville, ATTIK Design

“I think that a fast track to fame is what people think is acceptable these days, and it’s amazing that it’s worked for people. NOISE is the other side of the coin – these people are genuinely into creating music, or anything in all the other fields of the arts, and I think that’s why NOISE is interesting to someone like me, because it’s actually promoting real talent and people that wouldn’t go on the X Factor, people that would rather do it their way.”
Badly Drawn Boy

For more information, high resolution images or broadcast video material please contact Gavin Bower on 0161 237 9009 or pressoffice@noisefestival.com

Reading Room picks up 2 prestigous DADI awards

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 00:00:00 +0000

The team at Reading Room Manchester walked away with two of the most coveted Dadi Awards at last Friday’s award ceremony held in Leeds.

The agency fought off stiff competition to win ‘Best Technical Innovation’ for their highly accessible Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) website. Their own creative director Kirstie Buchanan cheered on by a large Reading Room contingent was also presented with the Creative of the Year award.

The awards were organised by national magazine ‘The Drum’ and are designed to celebrate the achievements of digital agencies outside of the M25. The prestigious awards ceremony was held on at the Armouries in Leeds and was attended by some of the biggest names in new media. Judges for the awards included; Phil Jones Managing Director, Real Time Consultancy, Jon Williams, Executive Creative Director, Grey Advertising and Patrick Baglee, Executive Creative Director for EHS Brann.

To see more information about the awards click here http://www.dadiawards.com

Seeking the best of the digital Northwest

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Northwest Vision and Media works on behalf of the TV, Film, Radio, Digital and Games industries in the Northwest to grow a world-class media economy within the region. We provide strategic leadership, help to build businesses, we develop skills and talent, encourage and invest in production and inspire audiences.

We’ve partnered with six of the region’s leading web and interactive companies to offer paid placement opportunities lasting six months, backed up by mentoring and one-to-one support, up-to-the-minute training in both production and professional skills, and more.

We are looking to place people who demonstrate high potential – they could have a great portfolio of layouts and web pages done at college or university, or you could be a bedroom coder doing incredible things under their own steam.

With the help of these host companies we can build on that potential through extra training and mentoring to prepare you for this fast-moving industry.

Successful candidates will get:
A tax-exempt training allowance of £1200 per month – comparable to the best entry-level salaries in the industry
An experienced, impartial mentor you can call on for careers advice, guidance and support
On-the-job training, plus structured training arrange by Northwest Vision and Media on the key skills for the industry, including networking and “soft” skills, business awareness and project lifecycles, and extra training on key packages and technologies
Further opportunities to join the networks and gain the knowledge that give you the edge as a creative, digital professional

How to Apply

To apply for this scheme candidates MUST:
Live in the Northwest of England – Cheshire, Cumbria, Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Merseyside
Have no more than 12 months’ PAID experience in the industry
Not currently be in full-time education

Full details, application form and role profiles can be found here:
http://www.visionandmedia.co.uk/page/new-entrant-digital-placements

Application deadline is currently set at 7th November 2008.

This activity is funded by the Digital and Media Skills Programme, delivered by Northwest Vision and Media in partnership with Skillset, and supported by the North West Development Agency.

Reform Creative win four-way pitch

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Manchester design consultancy, Reform Creative, have won a four-way pitch to produce a key publication for the University of Derby’s Faculty of Arts, Design and Technology.

Aimed at potential undergraduate and post-graduate students, the 48-page brochure will be used as ‘secondary-stage publication’ for distribution to students after they’ve read the prospectus.

The brochure will perform a range of functions in a distinctive visual way using high quality design, photography and production values. These functions include:

• Promoting art and design-based courses at the University
• Showcasing the best work of recent students and highlighting graduate success stories
• Guiding people to the Faculty website pages
• Giving an insight into life within the Faculty
• Highlighting the support given to students hoping to go into the creative industries

Reform took a quirky design approach with careful thought about the materials, photographic style and production treatments used for the publication.

Elated at this new business win, Reform’s Creative Director, Paul Heaton, commented:

“Our offbeat approach is very much in keeping with the highly creative work produced by the students at Derby. Naturally, we’re delighted to win this key piece of business which will hopefully form the basis of a long-term relationship with the University.”

Echoing Paul’s thoughts, the University’s Web and Publications Manager, Lucy Temple, said:

“We were really excited by Reform’s concepts and impressed with the amount of thought and effort that had been put into their pitch. We’re looking forward to working with them to produce a distinctive publication that will really showcase the creativity and success of our University.”

Call for Digital Media companies

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Host a TV professional within your Digital Media Company
Northwest Vision and Media are working with The White Room on an innovative cross-platform project that will pay TV professionals to work with some of the region’s leading Digital Media companies.

Digital Media Exchange (DMeX) links the experience and skills of traditional media freelancers and employees with the new markets and innovation of the region’s best Digital Media companies. It offers a unique opportunity for Digital Media businesses to work with, and learn from, established professionals from the television industries, sharing skills and knowledge between both sectors.

As part of the scheme, Digital Media companies across the North West will be able to host a TV professional for 20 days - based on their own requirements. So far, companies have requested a script-writer for a viral campaign, a drama writer and producer for a multi-platform drama, a director for a machinima ?lm, and a scriptwriter for a social networking project.

Placement timescales are ?exible; they can be hosted onsite or work remote; and can be for discreet projects or integrated into a team for the duration of the placement.

If you would like to host a placement, please contact Phil Birchenall on 07710 888 550 or via - with a brief ‘job description’, an outline of the skills/person you’re looking for, and when you would like the placement to take place.

The programme is running until March 2009, however, places are limited so register your interest
now!

About Northwest Vision and Media

Northwest Vision and Media works on behalf of the digital and creative industries in the Northwest to grow a world-class digital and creative economy within the region. We provide strategic leadership, help to build businesses, develop skills and talent, encourage and invest in production and inspire audiences. Find out more at www.visionandmedia.co.uk

This activity is funded by the Digital and Media Skills Programme, delivered by Northwest Vision and Media in partnership with Skillset, and supported by the North West Development Agency.

London 2012 begins the search for mascots

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0100

- Creative agencies sought to design and develop mascots

- Agencies expected to develop plans to include public engagement

The London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) today began the process of creating mascots for the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games in 2012 by inviting the creative industry to register interest in designing what will become some of the key visual icons of the London Games.

The mascots will be brought to life in many different ways, including in toy form, on clothing, in film and animation, on the gaming and digital platforms and in physical form. London’s design will reflect the ‘best of British’ and reflect the London 2012 brand – ambitious, bold and creative.

LOCOG is seeking industry recognised creative services companies – or consortia – which specialise in the development, launch and marketing of this kind of product. Interested parties are being urged to seek further information and details of how to apply online at [www.london2012.com/business](http://www.london2012.com/business). The first stage of the process is to register on the CompeteFor website, which is the online ‘dating agency’ for matching potential suppliers with Games-related business opportunities. Launched at the beginning of 2008, CompeteFor allows for an open and transparent procurement process and enables businesses to have access to all relevant business opportunities between now and 2012 – for both LOCOG and the ODA.

Key to a successful application will be demonstrating public involvement or engagement in the mascot development. The successful agency will also be expected to develop a full marketing and communication plan to support the launch of the mascot. Both the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games will have separate and distinct mascots.

From ‘Waldi’, the stripey Daschund which was the first official mascot from the Munich Games in 1972, through to the ‘Fuwa’, the five mascots of the Beijing Olympic Games, mascots have played an increasingly important role in the delivery of a Games. The introduction of a mascot is one of the highlights in the journey to the Games and now plays a vital role in raising revenue, as LOCOG seek to raise the £2bn required to stage the Games in 2012.

London 2012 Commercial Director Chris Townsend commented:

“Those of us lucky enough to go to Beijing this summer saw first hand the magic of the mascots – whether it was the soft toy version, entertainment at a venue or simply photo opportunities at the airport. They help set the tone for the Games and we’re very excited about kicking this process off today. Fun and games aside, the mascot programme will be a key component of our licensing plan and will be a strong revenue driver as we seek to raise the £2bn required to stage a Games in 2012.

This country is home to – in my view – the world’s best creative industry and this is an opportunity for them to play a key role in making the Games both memorable and a great success.”

Chinese Arts Centre appoints Sally Lai as new CEO

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Chinese Arts Centre is delighted to announce that Sally Lai has been appointed as our new CEO.

Following an MA in Contemporary Art Curation from Goldsmiths and work at Arts Council England, Sally was Curator at Chinese Arts Centre from 2002 to 2005. She left to take up a fellowship on the Clore Leadership Programme and has since undertaken a number of roles as a creative consultant and curator. This has included working for the Cultural Olympiad, London 2012, Arts Council England and curating a number of projects. Most recently she has been working as Assistant Director and Head of Programmes at firstsite. Her advisory roles have included acting as a Specialist Advisor to Visual Arts Department of the Scottish Arts Council, an Action Group Member of Mission, Models, Money and was a member of Culture Northwest. She is also a Fellow of the RSA and alumni of the Stanford Executive Programme for Leaders in the Arts.

Sally Lai: “I am excited to rejoin Chinese Arts Centre and look forward to leading its development; maximising its potential, building on its strong foundations and international standing, whilst keeping artistic practice at its heart.”

Albert Cheah, Chair: “The Board of Directors are absolutely delighted with the appointment and look forward to Sally Lai leading Chinese Arts Centre into a new and exciting future!”

Reach BCS encourage local talent.

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0100

The Reach BCS ‘Boss’ Aftab Ali was featured in the Rochdale Observer newspaper this month, giving recognition to the company’s policy of encouraging the development of fresh local talent. In line with this, the ranks at Reach have grown to now include the brilliantly-titled ‘Leaky’ from Balderstone High School in Ribble Valley, an aspiring young web designer and all-round nice chap.

As a local company with a focus on local business interests, Reach BCS is not only focused on creating the best websites for local companies, but also in playing an active part in the ongoing development of Rochdale’s interests and reputation. With the ongoing development of Rochdale town centre and the upcoming 2011 Metrolink rail connections to Manchester, Reach hopes that the Lancashire town will again become the thriving hub of industry it was in the 20th century, albeit perhaps with fewer mills and a few more technology companies!

Pinky launches new exhibition in Manchester

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Pinky takes us on a Psychedelic Trip with two sugars as he lands at Cup Gallery in Manchester this Autumn with his new show Turn On. An Art Happening for the people from this colourful British Artist.

A graffiti writer, pop artist and art zine kid since the late 80’s it’s been a busy year for Pinky so far with the success of his summer solo show Love Is The Drug at the renowned Ink_d Gallery in Brighton and his hit Shoreditch Installation The Crunch.

Plus!, blowing up at this years Dreweatts Urban Art Auction and rocking it at Banksy’s recent Cans Festival in London. But there’s plenty more to come from this versatile Artist who has created works for everyone from Justin Timberlake and Skint records to customising Darth Vader for George Lucas.

Turn On to Pinky’s dazzling use of paint, colour and iconography. Turn On to shimmering freestyle papercuts, surreal prints and bugged out, large scale watercolours. Turn On to an artist who grew up in the North and was influenced by Manchester’s musical vibrations rolling over the Pennines. Turn On to waves, raves, electric apples, skulls, owls and radiating suns. Turn Up the brightness and Turn On to Pinkyvision.

From 29th October - 28th December 2008

Dates Announced for bTWEEN09

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0100

bTWEEN the UK’s best interactive media forum will take place 10-12 June 2009
Hosted by FACT, Lverpool & MOSI, Manchester

Full details will be revealed over the coming months at bTWEEN.co.uk

b.TWEEN is the future of conferences: an industry gathering with networking, honest peer exchange and business at its core

bTWEEN09 will take the event to it’s fifth year and on offer will be a huge raft of opportunities for indie creatives. Including real commercial briefs from big brands with commercial commissions worth thousands of pounds

Details of the inspirational three day action packed programme designed to break down barriers between speaker and delegate through galleries, presentations, conversations, one to ones, keynotes, pitches with feedback and workshops will also be unveiled very soon
_
b.TWEEN is a must-attend event for those who matter in the media industry
re-visit this years sessions here:

click on any session title to watch & listen again
_
The bTWEEN Mapping Creativity opportunity to win a
£25,000 commission continues:

_
Seed | Share | Sell with the bTWEEN community at bTWEEN.co.uk

Introducing DMEX - the Digital Media eXchange

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0100

The White Room to lead DMEX - An Innovative Media Exchange Programme for the North West.

The White Room, a consultancy agency specialising in the creative economy, are celebrating their first year of trading after securing a prestigious contract with Northwest Vision & Media.

Working with NWV&M, The White Room will deliver Digital Media eXchange (DMeX) for TV and Digital Media Companies across the North West. DMeX will connect senior professionals from the
television sector with digital media companies - through paid placements, mentoring and collaborative digital projects. The programme will incorporate a series of cross-platform training sessions, workshops and masterclasses from digital experts across the UK.

Participating freelancers will include television producers, directors, editors and scriptwriters who will work closely with host companies operating in gaming, animation, online media and a number of cross-media and platform projects.

Speaking of the win, The White Room’s MD Andy Lovatt said; “We’re delighted to have won this contract and to be working with NWV&M on this innovative project. With rapid market convergence and the developments around Mediacity:uk, there is a real demand for digital skills in the TV sector and TV expertise in the digital sector. This project will accelerate that skills crossover and with it bring new opportunities to ex-
plore new markets and business growth.”

Lynn Kelly from NWV&M is keen to deliver a scheme that has been in development for a number of months. “This project should make a real difference to both the TV and Digital sectors in the North West. We have some great talent in both sectors and this project will bring them together in new, exciting and
innovative ways.”

Recruitment of the digital companies and TV freelancers will commence in October. To register your interest please email Phil Birchenall at

Further Information:

The White Room

The White Room Creative Economy Consultancy was established in 2007 by Andy Lovatt (former Head of Creative Industries at North West Development Agency) and Andrew Melchior (formerly Digital Manager with EMI Commercial Markets). The team were recently joined by Phil Birchenall, previously Service Manager at Manchester’s Creative Industries Development Service.

The White Room recently won the national contract to deliver Commitment 13 of the Creative Britain Strategy - identifying best practice for creative business support across the UK. Since its foundation, The White Room has completed strategic development work for The Open University, In The City Music Conference, Foundation Degrees Forward, DTI and DCMS.

The White Room also represents a number of critically acclaimed artists operating within the creative sector including the photographers Andrew Brooks, Kevin Cummins, Natalie Curtis and ‘Best of Manchester’ award winning conceptual artist Naomi Kashiwagi.

[www.thewhiteroomcec.com](http://www.thewhiteroomcec.com)

Northwest Vision and Media

Northwest Vision and Media works on behalf of the TV, ?lm, radio, digital and games industries in the Northwest to grow a world-class media economy within the region. We provide strategic leadership, help to build businesses, develop skills and talent, encourage and invest in production and inspire audi-
ences. Find out more at www.visionandmedia.co.uk

Northwest Vision and Media is funded by the UK Film Council, the Northwest Regional Development Agency, European Funds, Skillset, local, city and council authorities across the region.

Reach BCS donate monthly eShot for The New Children’s Hospital Appeal

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Reach BCS has recently completed the free design and distribution of an online newsletter as part of our help towards the Many Hands campaign, aimed at generating £25,000 funds through local businesses for The New Children’s Hospital Appeal.

The appeal aims to raise a total of £20m, with the intent of creating parental accommodation next to Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital so parents can be with their sick children. The appeal also hopes to fund expensive specialist equipment for the new, state-of-the-art building, which should hopefully be completed in 2009.

Bassmedia lauch aerial video and photography service.

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Bassmedia will be lauching an aerial video and photography service using UAV (un-manned aerial vehicle) at the interative marketing event at http://www.interactivemarketingshow.com/
The aerial platfrom can be used inside and outside and used to gain aerial footage for many applications from surveying to press media.
Please see www.bassmedia.net for applications or come down to the show on 4th and 5th Nov.

Uniform strike Gold with Roses Award!

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Design consultancy Uniform struck gold last night at the Roses Design Awards winning the gold award for the best Corporate Identity category for their work on the Ceri Hand Gallery. The award follows the silver they received for the same work at the Fresh Awards in September.

The Roses Design Awards celebrate excellence in the design and architecture industry outside of the M25. The only Liverpool agency to scoop a gold, Uniform were up against the likes of True North, Like a River and B&W Studio.

The consultancy’s brand and identity work for the Ceri Hand Gallery has received praise from the industry since the gallery opened its doors in July. It is the largest commercial, independent gallery of contemporary art in the UK outside of London. Uniform was commissioned to create a brand for it which was rolled out across a number of touch points and marketing materials including stationery, exhibition brochures, launch invites, gallery signage, bespoke plinths and ongoing advertising.

Subscribe now to receive the next edition of CREATIVE Times

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0100

We at CIDS are currently working on the December edition of
CREATIVE Times. If you’ve not done so already, you need to go to creativetimes.co.uk and subscribe to receive the next edition.

CREATIVE Times, the UK’s first journal for the creative industries has provided you with news, features and expert know-how for over three years. This year marked a new era for the publication, as CIDS launched [creativetimes.co.uk](http://www.creativetimes.co.uk)

If you would like to continue to receive the printed version of CREATIVE Times there are two ways you can subscribe:

• If you’re a business or organisation you can create a profile to be added to the [CREATIVE Times directory](http://www.creativetimes.co.uk/directory). This allows you to showcase your work, promote what you do and post unlimited content to the site. As a profile holder you will receive a complimentary copy of CREATIVE Times. Annual subscription for a profile is just £30.

• If you’re an individual and want to keep up-to-date with what’s happening in you can subscribe to receive CREATIVE Times only. Annual subscription for CREATIVE Times is just £10.

If you’re a registered user of [creativetimes.co.uk](http://www.creativetimes.co.uk) log in and follow the instructions to create a profile or subscribe to the printed version of CREATIVE Times. If you’ve not already registered on creativetimes.co.uk, go to the website and follow the instructions to register for free, before subscribing.

If you have any problems subscribing please email

Code ComputerLove helps carex reach hundreds of UK Schools and parents

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Antibacterial hand cleansing brand Carex, part of the PZ Cussons stable, is using online marketing and its website to maximise the impact of its 2008/9 Carex Hands Up For Hygiene campaign.

Digital marketing agency Code Computerlove has introduced a number of new web features at www.carex.co.uk/HandsUpForHygiene/
to support the highly successful initiative, that’s now in its 3rd year.

Aimed at pre-school practitioners and parents, Carex developed Hands Up for Hygiene in association with education and health professionals to help children understand the importance of handwashing in a fun and memorable way. For pre-school practitioners, the guide provides activity suggestions that link to the six areas of the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum; and for parents and other carers there are activities and songs that are easy to adapt for fun play based learning at home.

Carex is expanding the campaign for 2008/9, new features to the site include the ability for schools to apply to have a ‘lightbox’ that shows up hidden dirt and bacteria for a week. Schools can also view a video clip showing how the lightbox works and children’s reactions to it on the site.

Carex will also be launching an online forum so parents and teachers can share their own ideas on how to get children to wash their hands and think about the importance of hygiene. Plus there are a number of new activities, more songs, video clips of activities and a handwashing chart that parents and teachers can download for use in schools or the home.

Carex brand manager Vikki Brunning said, “The website is a great way to communicate our campaign to core target audiences and increase their interaction with the brand. Previously, we’ve relied on traditional mail outs and printed packs, but the web allows parents and teachers to download the resources they want. This not only enables us to reach a larger number of teachers, parents and carers in a more cost effective way, but also gives us more flexibility in how we present the information in a more impactful way, be it a music, video clip or PDF.

“Adding the user generated content is also a fantastic way to get people more involved and interacting with each other and the brand.”

Code was appointed as Carex’s digital agency in January 2008.

-ends
Code Computerlove is a full service digital marketing agency offering website design and build, and online media and marketing services. Formed in 1999, Code currently employs 55 people at its offices in central Manchester.

Over the last few years, Code has won a total of 39 industry awards. So far in 2008, Code has been voted North West Digital Agency of the Year – The Drum and UK’s number Number One UK Digital Agency for ROI in Revolution Magazine’s Client Survey. Code’s client list includes HMV, Waterstone’s, Kimberly Clark Corporation, PZ Cussons, Crown, Lex, Brother, First Transpennine Express, Premier Foods, NUS and Hillary’s. Visit www.codecomputerlove.com for more information.

For further information please contact:
Katie Moffat, Code PR, tel: 07866 723626 or email: katie.moffat@codecomputerlove.co.uk

Business Link's tools to tackle the crunch

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0100

With daily reminders from the world’s media of the unstable global financial climate, North West businesses are increasingly concerned about the impact of the credit crunch on their companies.

Business Link Northwest, the information, advice and support service for businesses, has rounded up its best online resources for helping businesses beat the credit crunch at www.businesslink.gov.uk/northwest/creditcrunch to make support and advice quick and easy to access.

The site focuses on two main areas – managing finance and increasing efficiency. It features a wide range of advice from managing cash flow to improving a business’ environmental policy. It also offers an extensive range of resources to help businesses plan, prepare and protect themselves against a financial downturn.

Sue Warburton, Digital and Creative Industries Sector Manager comments: “With the current economic climate, businesses will be thinking about finances and how the credit crunch might impact on them directly.

“Our Digital and Creative team is equipped with industry knowledge and business experience and is available to meet face to face to help identify and tackle any problems early on. Businesses can feel reassured help is available and we urge all businesses to make use of this free and impartial service.”

Businesses can also access further guidance by contacting Business Link Northwest on 0845 00 66 888. The Business Support Team are on hand to help you review the performance of your business. They can also identify key issues and actions to help you achieve your goals and broker you to relevant business support.

For more information on Business Link Northwest visit www.businesslink.gov.uk/northwest or call 0845 00 66 888.

Chinese Arts Centre launches season celebrating British Chinese arts

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Chinese Arts Centre's season of UK-based artists of Chinese descent opens on Thursday 9 October with the launch of 21 : Discussions with artists of Chinese descent in the UK, a new publication which profiles 21 leading UK-based Chinese artists and examines the development of British Chinese arts through the experiences of the artists and curators who have helped shape it.

21 will launch at the preview of Interval II by Suki Chan, a beautiful video installation which explores our relationship to the built environment. Chan uses time-lapse to capture the movement of shadow and light over a cast iron pier on the coast of northwest England and a tradtional Hakka roundhouse in southwest China.

The season continues with Chinese Arts Centre Breathe resident artist, plaster sculptor Philippa Hadley and First Step exhibition by UK-based artist Sin Yi Law whose delicate crayon drawings attempt to express the joy of food.

The season marks a commitment to Chinese Arts Centre's original aim - to create visibility for Chinese artists in the UK. The Centre was established in 1986 by a group of British Chinese artists frustrated that their work wasn't programmed by maintstream galleries. The Centre now works internationally to raise the profile of artists of Chinese descent both in the UK and around the world.

21 Launch / Preview Interval II by Suki Chan
Thursday 9 October 5.30 - 7.30pm
Artist Talk 5.30 - 6pm

Refreshments served

RSVP info@chinese-arts-centre.org

Code Computerlove to handle Digital Drive For Skin Bliss

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0100

PZ Cussons has tasked digital marketing agency Code Computerlove (www.codecomputerlove.co.uk) with developing a digital presence for its new innovative Imperial Leather skin bliss moisturising shower lotion, which hit the shelves this month.

Code will begin by creating a branded home page (www.skinbliss.co.uk) to support the product’s initial launch and help collect data. A new, “all singing, all dancing”, site will then be produced to support the recently launched £1.5m marketing campaign.

Code Computerlove was appointed as PZ Cussons’ rostered digital marketing partner following a competitive pitch in January 2008. This latest task for Imperial Leather comes on the back of ongoing digital work for Cussons’ Carex and Original Source brands. Both brands have exciting new consumer sites going live this summer.

Heather Boden, brand manager for Imperial Leather, said: “Skin bliss is a really innovative and exciting new product that offers us a fantastic opportunity to continue to grow our shower share and appeal to new consumers. Feedback from the trade has already been excellent, as has the initial consumer reaction.”

“Our digital presence will help us to extend our communication and dialogue with consumers (primarily women), enhance awareness and educate consumers about the products benefits. Code is working up a digital marketing strategy that will centre around a consumer facing website, as well as other online tactics.”

The new site will highlight the product’s USPs including the fact that moisture is locked into the skin using unique Moisturelock TM technology. This technology works by using an ultra mild cleansing system to gently cleanse without stripping away your skins precious natural oils and helps skin seal in its natural moisture leaving no greasy residue. The result is skin is noticeably, and touchably soft, smooth and supple after just 5 days

-ends-
Code Computerlove is a full service digital marketing agency offering website design and build, and online media and marketing services. Formed in 1999, Code currently employs 55 people at its offices in central Manchester.

Over the last few years, Code has won a total of 39 industry awards. So far in 2008, Code has been voted North West Digital Agency of the Year – The Drum and UK’s number Number One UK Digital Agency for ROI in Revolution Magazine’s Client Survey. Code’s client list includes HMV, Waterstone’s, Kimberly Clark Corporation, PZ Cussons, Crown, Lex, Brother, First Transpennine Express, Premier Foods, NUS and Hillary’s. Visit www.codecomputerlove.com for more information.

Photography agency bounces back

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Contact Digital, Commercial and Creative Photographers based in Manchester, have recently relocated to new premises at Universal Square, Devonshire Street, Ardwick. Manchester

The company received a huge setback at Christmas 2007, when thieves broke into their previous premises in Ancoats. The criminals stole everything the fledgling company owned, cameras, studio lighting and computers – an estimated total value of over £12,000.

Despite this Contact Digital have attracted several new clients this year, including HBOS PLC, Transform Medical Group and Cobra UK. They are now taking on bigger jobs in the fields of Advertising and Corporate work, working with all new cameras and computers.

With a new website due to go live this week, and great new offices to work from, Contact Digital are looking to put the break-in behind them and move forward to new success.

Please visit www.contactdigital.co.uk for more details.

Design Symposium Site Now Live: Book Tickets Now

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Liverpool's biggest-ever design conference 'Liverpool Design Symposium' is now taking bookings from its new website

It is supported by industry body the Design Business Association and educational charity D&AD, as well as by Merseyside creative industry bodies Design Initiative and Merseyside ACME. Merseyside ACME Director Kevin McManus said:

"The Liverpool Design Symposium will help show that the design sector in Liverpool is maturing and getting more competitive. In the last few years, Liverpool design companies, such as those involved with the Symposium, have been holding their own nationally and internationally. Hopefully the rest of the country will sit up and take notice."

Mr McManus said the symposium also aimed to show local businesses that they did not have to go to Manchester or London to find top design talent. He added:

"One of the messages we are trying to get across at ACME is the strength of the design offering in Liverpool and the region. We've already got some great companies here and we need to get that message across locally and nationally. Local people are perhaps unaware of what we've got."

Liverpool Design Symposium will be held on October 23 at St George's Hall, Liverpool. For more information visit

Manchester design blog to sponsor Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Manchester based design blog IndieQuarter.com is delighted to be sponsoring the Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair.

"It’s such an important event for independent designers and for the North," says IndieQuarter.com editor Jenny Hudson, who started the blog back in 2005. “There’s such a wealth of talent in the UK and we’re excited about seeing it here in Manchester.”

The Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair is the region’s first large selected fair where original contemporary craft can be bought and commissioned directly from some of the UK’s most talented designer-makers. Held in the elegant setting of The Manchester Grammar School from 23rd-26th October 2008, it will showcase an irresistible mix of ceramics, jewellery, interior textiles, fashion accessories, glass, metalwork, wood, furniture and more with prices ranging from £10 to £10,000.

“This is the first fair of its kind to be held in the region,” says Jenny, “And we’re delighted to be involved from the outset. IndieQuarter.com will be sponsoring the prize for Best Stand. ”

IndieQuarter.com is a UK based blog about independent designers, makers, artists and crafters. The blog features designers from a wide variety of disciplines, with everything from up and coming fashion labels, ceramics and textile designers to contemporary art, photography and jewellery.

Follow a fashion designer through a day in their life, or listen to a selection of podcasts featuring artist interviews. Guest writers from PR companies and even CosmoGIRL’s fashion editor have ‘popped in’ to offer tips and advice to budding entrepreneurs.

Indie Quarter was launched in 2005, and was created by web design company, Vanilla Storm. Visit ww.vanillastorm.com for more information.

PRWD Secures Six Figure Software and Usability Contract

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Digital usability agency PRWD are to work with C&O Powder Coatings, moving them from paper tracking to a fully integrated software system as part of a strategy to double C&O’s turnover in the next five years.

C&O, a Merseyside based family run business, has pledged to invest a six-figure sum with Manchester based PRWD to create a custom-built application, simplifying processes throughout the business.

The system will transform their internal management process from ordering and job tracking to stock control and customer management. The switch from paper to digital is forecast to improve production line efficiency by at least 25%.

PRWD will implement the new User Centered Designed system over a two-year period, adopting a phased delivery approach and working alongside C&O to ensure successful software integration.

The new business for PRWD signals their expansion from e-commerce projects to internal management systems. MD Paul Rouke commented, ‘At PRWD we can adapt to our clients - our skills in developing user and results driven software are just as applicable to business modernisation and internal systems as they are for e-commerce solutions.’

C&O recently invested around 15% of annual sales into world class machinery and moved to shift patterns to ensure that the business was as cost effective as possible.

Arthur Holmes, MD of C&O Coatings says: “We have an ambitious plan for growth over the next five years and every aspect of the business is being reviewed in detail to ensure we reach our target. The custom built system developed by PRWD is part of our on-going commitment to the growth of the business.”

PRWD was established in 2006 and they specialise in online user experience and software development. Alongside software development they provide user centred design, customer experience and information architecture consultancy. Clients include JD Williams, CDMS and Additions Direct.

Website: www.prwd.co.uk
Usability blog: www.paulrouke.co.uk
Best practice e-commerce: www.ucdcommerce.com

C&O Powder Coatings, established in 1985, services a broad range of sectors. Originally founded in the North West they now extend far beyond the region. It delivers powder coating services which is an environmentally friendly and cost effective method of applying paint to a variety of metals, including aluminium and galvanised steel components

Website: www.candocoatings.co.uk

Littlestar/myvp film at Labour Party Conference

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Labour Party Conference event

The documentary 'Who Do You Think We Are' is to be screened at The Labour Party Conference here in Manchester on the 22nd October. The film produced by young people with the help of the Littlestar team gives an insight into the prejudices and misconceptions young people face today.

Littlestar is a creative media company based in Manchester - four short films produced by Littlestar are now on permanent exhibition at the Imperial War Museum North.

[www.littlestar.tv](http://www.littlestar.tv)

Len Grant delivers Focal Point: Lecture

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Photographer, Len Grant was the special guest at the latest instalment of Focal Point: Lectures.

Grant captured the audience’s attention with tales of his projects, illustrated by his work including readings from some of his publications.

From his first commission: Salford’s New Era: Faces of Change and his excitement at “actually being paid to press the shutter” to his recent projects in East Manchester, Grant stressed that it’s the “people not the architecture” that have been central to his work. As a documenter of regeneration projects such as New Islington, he felt he was able to “tell the real story” and highlight the social impact of change.

Grant also offered some helpful hints for newbie photographers, emphasising the importance of deciding what kind of photographer you’re and who your customer is.

“I was really impressed by the quality of the seminar and the speaker. It was hugely enjoyable and beneficial”, said Photographer, Karin Bareman.

Keep up-to-date with CIDS events by registering with the
[CREATIVE Times website](https://www.creativetimes.co.uk/myaccount/users/new) and opting-in to receive our monthly e-newsletters.

For more information on Len Grant go to: [www.lengrant.co.uk](http://www.lengrant.co.uk)

Record labels get Un-conventional.

Sun, 14 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0100

A new music industry event featuring Huw Stephens (Radio 1), Andrew Dubber (New Music Strategies), Dave Cooper (In House Press and Melodic), Stephen Bass (Moshi Moshi), Caroline Elleray (Universal Music) and over thirty of the most cutting edge innovators and opinion leaders of the current scene, will take place this October in Salford.

The event, under the banner of ‘Un-convention’ is specifically aimed at the grass roots of the music industry, and looks to stimulate debate and ideas around how those at the forefront of new music can adapt and prosper.

Inspired, rather than intimidated, by new leaps in technology, a collective of independent record labels, promoters and musicians have sought to put together a forum for like-minded people, to discuss new ideas and future opportunities.

For two days, and three nights, ‘Un-convention’ will look at all aspects of the modern music industry, with discussions on the future role of record labels, the renewed emphasis on live performance, how to gain exposure across all forms of media, and also a look at some of the most innovative ideas and business models around.

It is an opportunity to network with others trying to find new and exciting ways of working with music. Un-convention is for DIY and small independent labels, self-releasing artists, promoters and venues, record stores, distributors, photographers, journalists, designers & PR, and anyone else with an interest in the future of the music industry.

A core value of Un-convention is that it is inclusive and accessible to everyone. It is an event very much aimed at people working at the coalface of music. It is as much about participation as it is learning; it’s about asking questions and sharing experience. Un-convention is running a blog so participants can have there say on what should be discussed at the event. The blog can be found at www.unconvention.wordpress.com

Un-convention will take place at the Sacred Trinity Church, Chapel Street, Salford, M3 5DW, with the opening night on Sunday 5th October 2008, the event will run until the evening of Tuesday 7th of October 2008.

The daytime events will see panel events, networking and acoustic performances, whilst the evenings will showcase some of the most exciting new music around.
Full event passes are currently available at £18.

For more information visit www.unconvention.wordpress.com

HighContrast gets naked with Gok Wan

Sat, 13 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0100

The king of transformations, famous for his Channel 4 programme ‘How to look good naked’, Gok Wan was filming his new show on location in Manchester’s Victoria Baths last Monday. Gok is on a nationwide search to find the most diverse beauties in Britain today – whether they be curvaceous, slim, tattooed or tanned, pierced, freckled, busty bombshell or kooky cool, unconventional beauty or model material.

The show presented by Gok Wan and Myleene Klass was putting the brave contestants through a series of challenges, one of which was to have their true selves revealed on camera. Everything that girls arm themselves with to look beautiful including clothing, jewellery, hair products, accessories and makeup was literally blasted off with a fire hose to reveal what was underneath.

HighContrast were commissioned to shoot the 25 fabulous females taking part. Headshots were taken as they arrived in the morning all ‘glammed-up’ and ‘dressed to impress’, and then again later having had all their makeup removed to uncover their natural beauty.

Our photographer Ed Stemp commented “There was never a dull moment when Gok was around – he’s such a mischievous character, entertaining all the girls and crew with his antics. Even though some girls found the whole experience quite emotional, Gok’s sound personality and passion for true natural beauty put the girls at ease. We worked quickly while being filmed, and ensured we captured great shots of the girls, even without the help of makeup or accessories.”

The show, produced by Maverick TV will be broadcast on prime-time Channel 4, sometime mid-October.

For more information about HighContrast, please visit www.highcontrast.co.uk or call Ed on +44(0) 845 838 8661

Photodocumentary commissions - introductory rates

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0100

This September Bec is offering special introductory rates for organisations and institutions who require photo documentation work - covering events through to portraiture.
Previous clients have included Urbis, Design Initiative, and the Whitworth Art Gallery.

Please contact mail@becgarland.com for outline of special rates and CD of sampled work.
www.becgarland.com

‘Proof is in the Eating’- Fudge’s Culinary Success

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Food lovers descended on Bolton in their droves at the end of August, to sample the culinary delights of the Bolton Food and Drink Festival - following a highly successful campaign created by the NW brand and digital agency, Fudge.

This has been the first year that the Festival has taken on an identity of its own – previously being part of the Manchester Food and Drink Festival, traditionally held later on in the year.

Fudge developed a fun, highly visual multi-media promotional campaign based on the strapline ‘Its Tasty Up North,’ to generate mass consumer interest and participation in the event.

David Eccles, Fudge’s MD explains; “Despite the previous success of the Festival over the last few years, it was vital to create a massive buzz around this year’s event, as there was to be no spin-off to be had from the Manchester Food and Drink Festival, as has happened historically.”

The campaign certainly did its job – with major footfall being seen at all the cookery demo events, at the Farmer’s Market and in the city’s eateries.

For further information on the Festival go to www.visitbolton.com/foodanddrinkfestival

For more information on Fudge see www.fudgestudios.com.

-ends-

Press information:-
Anthea Fosti, Zeus Public Relations Limited
www.zeuspr.co.uk
email: anthea.fosti@zeuspr.co.uk
Tel: 01270 883720 / 07971 437042

University of Manchester unveils low-cost texturing application

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0100

And it gets better: they're planning to release it for free, too

In researching architecture graphics software, the boffins at the University of Manchester have stumbled on a new low-cost method for generating game environment textures - and they plan to give it away once it is finished.

The team says they can create detailed textures using just a digital camera and their proprietary software.

As long as the camera in question has a flash, the app can get to work, comparing two pictures - one with a flash and one without, and working on the assumption that the brightness of a surface is related to its 3D position.

According the developer, the naked eye can't tell the difference between laser scanned images and their cheaper creations.

Team member Dr Mashhuda Glencross told the [Manchester Evening News](http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/business/s/1065919_time_for_lara_to_get_real)"It's a really low cost and easy way to get depth information.

"We plan on releasing it as a free application from our web page as the technique has already been presented at a top conference.

"It has attracted attention from a computer games company and a firm that was creating a dome projection movie for planetariums about Mayan civilisations.

"We initially developed the technique for the architecture industry, where it would be used for visualising buildings and adding surface detail for increased realism.

"There is also potential for it to be used in movies."

SOURCE: [Develop](http://www.developmag.com/news/30466/University-of-Manchester-unveils-low-cost-texturing-application)

Bridging the Gap: Future Documentary Development Workshops

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0100

Bridging the Gap: Future Documentary Development Workshops in September

Scottish Documentary Institute is pleased to announce outreach workshops in Inverness, Norwich, Nottingham and Manchester to encourage submissions to our annual Bridging the Gap short documentary film competition from across the UK. We will be showing examples of past Bridging the Gap work, explain the aims of the scheme and how to improve your chances to be short-listed. Please bring along an idea for a short documentary and learn how to develop and focus your treatment.

This year we’re looking for ideas for ten minute short docs on the theme of “Future” - the submissions deadline is 3 October. More information and guidelines on www.docscene.org from 4 Sept 2008.

Manchester Workshop
Venue: Manchester Cornerhouse
70 Oxford Street, Manchester, M1 5NH, UK
Date: Fri 19 September 2008
Time: 14:00 -17:00
Cost: Free but please RSVP to: Rebecca Day r.day@eca.ac.uk stating which venue you’d like to attend.

Tutor: Derek Murray
After working in independent TV production, Derek participated in the first Bridging the Gap scheme on graduating from the Northern Media School. He is author of ‘Defying Gravity’, an influential report on the North West film industry, commissioned by North West Vision, and has lectured on the film industry for post graduates at the University of Salford whilst working as an independent producer and director. He lives in Liverpool.

Hosted in Manchester with kind support by Northwest Vision and Media