7th September

We are thrilled to announce that Create Studios will be participating in the National Heritage Open Days on September 7th! This event is a fantastic opportunity to explore the rich history and innovative projects within our heritage home.

Visitors can learn about our Sofa Screenings offer, which will be launching at 26th of September.

We are also excited to showcase our Making My Mark Project, a collaboration with English Heritage that explores themes of personal identity through captivating films.
Additionally, don’t miss the beautiful banners produced in our Stitch Your Story project, a collaborative effort involving 80 participants and renowned visual textile artist Jo Beal.

As part of the day’s events, we will be screening two fascinating films:

Men on the Mend (1954) – 12 minutes

This short film follows Joe Miller, a worker at Swindon Works, who breaks his ankle on the job. The film takes you inside the Western Region Rehabilitation Workshop, a pioneering back-to-work scheme that combines modern gym techniques with traditional metalwork. Directed by Kenneth Fairbairn and featuring Duncan Carse and Conrad Phillips, this documentary offers a unique glimpse into workplace rehabilitation during the mid-20th century.

Fire and Steel – 42 minutes

Directed by Martin Parry, this film provides an inside look at the original Swindon Works, once the largest workshop in Europe. Through archival footage and interviews with workers from different eras, Fire and Steel captures the drama and danger of life in a railway factory, where steam engines were forged from fire and steel. Although the factory is no longer in operation, this film vividly brings its history to life.

These two films will be presented as a one-hour program, introduced by Martin Parry, the Director/Producer of Fire and Steel.

They will be shown twice during the day, with opportunities in between to explore the Making My Mark films and the Stitch Your Story banners.

Join us for a day of discovery, creativity, and heritage at Create Studios!

Interested in a holding a similar event or using our event space?

We are excited to offer a wide range of events to support and showcase the creative talents of our community. Our events include master classes, screenings, and seminars featuring industry experts. In addition, if you are looking for a space for your next event, get in touch! Our brand-new studio space is the perfect place in the heart of Swindon.