GMAC Film and the University of Glasgow showcase films from Applied Dissertation

At the end of April, students, professors and community participants created a buzz of excitement which filled the Andrew Stewart Cinema at University of Glasgow’s Gilmorehill Halls.

Everyone was raring to see the final projects from the University of Glasgow and GMAC Film’s Applied Film Dissertation in Community and Collaborative Practice, which participants have spent many months developing. 

You might be wondering, ‘what is the Applied Dissertation?’ 

Supported by the University of Glasgow’s School of Culture & Creative Arts partnership project (scca partnerships), this unique course brings together students and community groups to make a film or social media campaign. Small groups of students collaborate with community organisations like Food Not Bombs, Dress for Success, and Active Life Club to co-create audio-visual works whose purpose is to generate awareness of a social issue or to build support for a specific cause. Practical application is underpinned by theories and contexts in socially engaged filmmaking, with students submitting a combination of visual and written works for their final dissertation.

When asked what their biggest take away from the screening was, attendees said:

“The real diversity and life in Glasgow, and the generosity of everyone involved.” – Community Participant

“Collaboration is key” – Student

“What an exciting and creative partnership. Powerful storytelling – so impressive” – Audience Member 

In its first year ever of running, students and community participants have attended workshops and worked collaboratively to piece together a vision for the project, before filming and editing the final pieces that were showcased on the big screen. 

After six great films and a round of celebratory photographs the happiness was palpable! We rounded off the afternoon with a reception of drinks and cakes – the perfect way to end the experience. We’d like to extend a huge thank you to the University of Glasgow Team and Gilmorehill Halls for hosting the showcase. 

If you’re a community project or organisation that would like to get involved with the next round of the Applied Dissertation in Community and Collaborative Practice, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us: hello@gmacfilm.com