I shot my first Super 8 film some 14 years after starring in brother Ian's home movies, having discovered his old cine camera and projector gathering dust in the attic. One film led to another, and I became entranced by the projected image, making and collecting films, slides and projectors.
In 1991 I showed my films and projections for the first time at the old Cooltan Factory in Brixton. Encouraged by the response, I started up the Loopy Film & Slide Show. My mission: to provide chill-out cinema, projected light installations, and dance floor 'eye candy' for the raving masses. Free festivals, benefit gigs and squat/warehouse parties offered plenty of opportunities to gain experience & show my work to thousands of people. As the promoters moved on to launch club nights, I got regular work and residencies.
As well as club work, I began collaborating with bands. Using projectors to create unique lighting for them, I enjoyed jamming with the musicians, blending images and loops with live video. A highlight for me was performing 2 shows in Lutsk with Baby Trio in 1996. We had been invited to take part in 'Oberig'- the Ukrainian National Music Festival - as special guests, and were awarded the festival's highest tier of recognition — the prestigious "Big Berenyika" award.
In 1992 I met Adrian Lochhead of Freakshow Theatre Company, and began a long and fruitful period of collaboration. I worked on three successive shows - The Collected Works of Billy the Kid, Rave, and Badman, making films and slides, developing staging concepts, and touring around the UK. I also created material for 'London Bubble' & 'Mischief La Bas' theatre companies.
Having enjoyed Glastonbury Festival many times as a punter [and fence jumper], I took Loopyfilms Cinema for the first time in 1994, returning every year at the invitation of arabella churchill until 2006. Sited in the Theatre & Circus Fields, I presented my [un]usual blend of film, slides, loops and music, on outdoor screens each night. During the day I enjoyed what was the greatest performing arts festival in the world.
