Edinburgh Napier University

  This research project investigates the historical evolution of the film and television workforce in Scotland by looking into the career paths and strategies for career sustainability of local freelance crew personnel over the last 45 years. Throughout this period the Scottish screen sector has gone through significant changes in terms of scope, production activity and economic value, and the local freelance workforce has proved to be a key element in the development and success of the sector. However, little is known about the career strategies of individuals who managed to forge their path into the job market over the years, especially when it comes to those working in technical and craft roles. The research draws on data from the 'Film Bang' directory of Scottish-based freelance crew personnel, published from 1976 to date, archival materials, and a series of oral history interviews with selected freelancers. Overall, it is hoped that by uncovering the stories of these professionals it may be possible to gain new insights into the sector and help with the preservation of Scotland’s screen culture heritage. This is a collaborative PhD research project involving Edinburgh Napier University, the University of Edinburgh and the National Library of Scotland Moving Image Archive. The project was awarded an Applied Collaborative Research Studentship (ARCS) by the Scottish Graduate School for Arts and Humanities (SGSAH).