There is a Super 16mm film on at the Baltic (until 10th May if anyone is interested!) which has been really useful in relation to 'Burning Ambition'. 'The Gainsborough packet' is a work by Matt Stokes based on a letter written in the 1800's by a local man called John Burdikin. I wish i had found this earlier! Burning Ambition is also set in the 1800's in Newcastle and Gateshead. This has been extremely useful, as up until now i have struggled to find works on the Victorian working class, as websites and books on Victorian England seem to ignore the lower classes, only painting and documenting the rich and affluent upper classes lifestyle and attire. The letter by John Burdikin has been utilised as inspiration for the lyrics and music of a contemporary folk song on the short film, which in turn traces Burdikin's life and adventures.
Also, since I last wrote, I have been down to the Quayside with my camera and snapped up loads of good pictures of the Victorian buildings which still stand today (I.e the Guildhall)and others which I think could be used as a starting point for the design of, for example, Mrs. Shields' shop and the Dunn Cow Inn. I was particularly interested in the old stone work of many of the buildings, as it has given me inspiration for a colour palette for the film.
All written work is finished, (going to ask a lecturer to give it a once over before it is handed in though) but for now i'm still putting my folder together for Andrea, back to the pritt stick!