The London Community Video Archive presents a programme of new short films by emerging filmmakers from across the UK. Developed through an open call, this selection is made up of creative responses to the LCVA’s rich heritage.
Conceived as a creative challenge rather than a competition, the initiative supported selected participants to explore the archive’s themes, methods and subject matter in original ways. The resulting works span a spectrum of approaches: from inventive re-engagements with archival material to entirely new films inspired by the people, politics and grassroots storytelling found within the collection.
Drawing on the LCVA’s extensive online archive, these films reflect on histories of activism, neighbourhood life and collective action, reimagined for the present moment. Together, they offer a dynamic conversation between past and present, celebrating the enduring power of community video and the next generation of filmmakers shaping its future.
Supported by Heritage Lottery Fund.
Programme:
fields beneath towers
Tabitha Carless-Frost I 2026 I UK I 6′ I digital I English spoken
Born from 1970s community action to resist planned Docklands development, Mudchute Park & Farm has been preserved as a public green space — but today its future is uncertain.
Pending
Ngo Chun Tse I 2026 I UK I 14′ I digital I Cantonese and English Spoken
Drawing parallels between the deindustrialisation of the 1980s and the precarious labour conditions of the 2020s, the film follows Harlem, a former takeaway owner whose visa status places his life in suspension.
Three Sheets to the Wind or Why I Haven’t Done The Washing Up Today
Ray Sims I 2026 I UK I 4′ I digital I English spoken
A personal, experimental response to the history of the wages for housework movement.
The Dreamers
Jaccaidi Hypolite-Dyer I 2026 I UK I 3′ I digital I English spoken
Drawing on concepts of radical imaginings and action: the film weaves together the idea of personal and societal transformation. We arrive to meet a woman on the precipice of change.
Stories from Co-op Pepys
Catherine Chapman and Ludmila Trezkova I 2026 I UK I 9′ I digital I English spoken
A conversation with Daniel, a member of Co-o Pepys Arts Project which was established by residents of the Pepys estate in 1981. He talks about his memories and experiences of living on the estate for more than two decades, accompanied by footage of the Arts Project workspaces.
Square
Ela Kazdal I 2026 I UK I 7′ I digital I English spoken
Women’s struggle unfolds against London as both container and witness.
Exploring Our Place
Dunya Kalantery and children of Northwood Primary I 2026 I UK I 11′ I digital I English spoken
Exploring Our Place is filmed and narrated by a group of children from Northwood Primary School in Thamesmead.
This event is available with the OCDF Bundle at Rich Mix: 6 events for £30.