Freelance Filmmaker - Bookmarked: Thirsk 2026

Job Summary

Rural Arts is seeking an experienced filmmaker to create a short film based on our Bookmarked: Thirsk 2026 project. The Project runs from September 2026 – April 2027.

Job Description

Rural Arts is seeking an experienced filmmaker to create a short film based on our Bookmarked: Thirsk 2026 project. The Project runs from September 2026 - April 2027. We would like the filmmaker to be present at our launch weekend and also at
events/workshops throughout the project. The other dates are to be set in discussion with the filmmaker. This is our flagship project funded through the Vibrant and Sustainable High Street Fund.
We are looking for a filmmaker who is not just creating a film about the project, but one who becomes engaged in community. Specifically, we want the selected artist to:
Be present at the launch weekend (11 - 13 September 2026). Additional dates throughout the project to be agreed with the individual.

Job Requirements

This is an exciting opportunity for a creative freelancer with experience of filmaking, working both indoors and outdoors. We would like to record and tell the story of Bookmarked as it unfolds across Thirsk in The Courthouse, Rural Arts and at our partner venues: Thirsk Community Library, The Ritz Cinema, White Rose Book Cafe, Community Works, James Herriot Museum and Thirsk Tourist Information. The film and footage captured will be a lasting legacy from the project. The film will also be screened at the end of the project.

Project Timeline
-Film Proposal/ brief to be co-created with Rural Arts throughout September 2026
-Bookmarked launch Weekend: 11th - 13th September 2026 - must be available
-Filming & Editing: throughout project until April 2027
-Reels and short clips to be delivered throughout the project. Minimum 5.
-For final film Edits & Revisions Complete: May-June 2027 - to be discussed.
-Final Film Delivered: by end of June 2027
-Film Premiere: Date TBC
-Touring: TBD

Job Responsibilities

Throughout the project, we envisage the filmmaker not just to film but to:
- Build a relationship with the venues
- Observe and capture footage of the events and group interactions including artist residencies.
- Record soundbites, informal conversations, interviews, or other material
- Consider how the project might be represented and include partners in the final film
- Final film to be up to 6-10 minutes in length

Useful Links

Job Overview

Job Title: Freelance Filmmaker - Bookmarked: Thirsk 2026
Salary: Under £10K
Hours: Part time
Artform: Charity
Role: Creative
Contract: Hybrid
Closing date: Fri, 21 Aug 2026
Location:

Yorkshire

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Job: Freelance Filmmaker - Bookmarked: Thirsk 2026

Organisation: Rural Arts

Postcode: YO7 1QS

How to Apply

Please send the following to [email protected] by 5pm on Friday 21 August 2026:

- A short statement (maximum 400 words) outlining your approach to this brief and describing a similar marketing project you have successfully delivered.
- Examples of previous work, including film clips.
This can be:
film clips/showreel links to your portfolio, your website,and/or social media accounts showcasing your work.

Alternatively, you may submit a video application (maximum 5 minutes) covering the same information.

About Rural Arts

Rural Arts is a charity that delivers inspiring and inclusive creative opportunities that enrich lives and connect communities.

We provide over 400 events and activities each year at our community arts centre in Thirsk, which is also home to an award-winning café, an artisan shop and rooms to hire.

We programme 70 performances per year in rural venues and lead a range of wellbeing and employment programmes to support vulnerable people.

Find out more