For October’s masterclass, we took part in Royal Academy of Arts’ ‘Drop in & Draw‘, a lively life-drawing session hosted in collaboration with the inspiring 2bornot2b Collective. They are a POC-led art collective dedicated to uplifting POC and visibly marginalised bodies in art. The workshop celebrated creativity, movement, and expression, inviting participants to experiment freely while honouring diverse forms and identities.

The session featured four models, with the focus shifting between one or two at a time. We began with quick two-minute poses, each sketch demanding speed, intuition, and attention to gesture rather than perfection.

We were encouraged to rethink how we hold our tools – not in the usual tight grip, but the overhand ‘violin bow’ technique, allowing lighter, more expressive strokes. ‘Pop your head up for two seconds,’ the facilitator reminded us, ‘and really see what you’re drawing.’

Each pose came with a creative prompt to loosen our minds and hands:

• Sketch using abstract structures
• Switch to your non-dominant hand for a challenge
• Reduce the body to geometric shapes – a circle for the head, a single line for the body
• And later, think about space and depth – instead of drawing the body, try drawing the space around it

The final session brought everything together. Over 20 minutes, models entered the frame one by one, building a ‘still’ that evolved in real time – each addition shifting the composition and energy of the piece. It was described as ‘a drawing built over time,’ a living sculpture of form and connection.

We were also given the incredible opportunity to visit the Kerry James Marshall: The Histories exhibition. Marshall, known for his powerful, figurative paintings that unapologetically centre Black life, reimagines Western art traditions through a Black lens.

Spanning 45 years of work, the exhibition explores eleven distinct cycles – from portraiture and landscape to historical scenes and contemporary political commentary. His pieces chronicle moments of Black history from the Middle Passage and slave rebellions to the Civil Rights and Black Power movements, transforming the genres of Western painting in the process.

If you haven’t yet visited, the exhibition runs until 18 January next year – and if you’re 25 & under, tickets are half price! Find out more and book tickets here.

Big thank you to everyone who attended, Royal Academy of Arts for hosting and 2bornot2b Collective for the incredible creative workshop!

Have you ever wanted to know how TV ideas are born, how to craft the perfect pitch, or what really goes into making the sizzle reel that sells a show?
At our latest Creative Access Masterclass, we partnered with ITN Productions, the award-winning production company behind some of the UK’s most compelling documentaries and factual programmes. The evening gave our community a behind-the-scenes look at how it all happens. Across four sessions, ITN leaders shared their insights on development, pitching, editing, digital, and career progression – offering practical advice and candid reflections from inside the world of television.

Session 1: Development & Pitching

Led by Daniel Gilmore (Head of Development) and Olivia Evans (International Development Producer), this session explored how ideas are generated, researched, and pitched before they ever reach the screen.
From podcasts and social media to casual conversations, Olivia explained that inspiration is everywhere if you stay curious. Daniel emphasised the importance of knowing your audience: every broadcaster has different needs, and tailoring your pitch accordingly is essential. The pair also discussed dealing with rejection, having faith in your idea, and keeping your enthusiasm alive.
When asked what it really takes to build a career in development, Daniel advised: ‘Have faith in your idea, be able to deal with rejection… always be passionate and enthusiastic.”

Session 2: Editing Sizzles & Taster Tapes
Patrick Holland (Development Coordinator) guided participants through the art of the sizzle which are short taster reels that can either make or break a pitch.
“Don’t save your killer quote until the end.” – Patrick Holland
Patrick reminded us that impact needs to land early, with music, visuals, and motion playing a crucial role in grabbing attention. He also stressed the importance of proof of concept, from sourcing archive material to creating mood boards. The attendees were encouraged to always get feedback before sending a tape out.

Session 3: CV Clinic
For the third session, Zara McFadden (Talent Executive) led a practical workshop on how to craft a CV that reflects your brand and stands out in the creative industries.
“Don’t be frightened – you’re going to be changing your CV all the time. Running your CV is a job in itself.” – Zara McFadden
Zara shared advice on layout, clarity, and tailoring each CV to the role you’re applying for. She highlighted the value of including showreel links, technical skills, and well-chosen personal interests, while warning against over-padding or overlooking spelling and grammar.

Session 4: Short Form & Digital
In the final session, Rubina Pabani (Head of Short Form/Digital) explored the opportunities and challenges of making digital content.
“Rejection is always good for you.” – Rubina Pabani
Rubina encouraged attendees to focus on audiences first and see rejection as part of the creative process. She also spoke about the art of casting, the power of conversation, and the creativity that comes from starting small in the digital space.
Practical tips included design, pitching and casting – giving relationships time to develop and choosing characters who make you laugh or tell compelling stories. Rubina emphasised using available resources and learning skills independently, from colour grading to sound design. Even ideas that start from nothing can grow into impactful content, and diverse stories are more important than ever.

A huge shout out to ITN Productions and to Dan, Olivia, Patrick, Zara, and Rubina for such an inspiring evening. And thank you to everyone in the Creative Access community who joined us!

‘Creative Access co-founder JOSIE DOBRIN is to head up the board at the Association of Illustrators (AOI)‘ reports Arts Professional.

‘The Association of Illustrators (AOI) has appointed Creative Access founder Josie Dobrin as its new chair‘ reports Maia Snow at The Bookseller.

‘Edinburgh University Press and children’s publisher Lantana have been named as two of the Mo Siewcharran Fund grant recipients as the organisation published its latest impact report.’ reports The Bookseller.

‘Hachette UK staff attended its annual Changing the Story Festival on 8th September 2025, a day-long event “dedicated to reflecting on, connecting with and celebrating the business’ DEI commitment’ reports Lauren Brown at The Bookseller.