Managed by Film London, LSA is a unique network of over 100 historic film collections, working together on a common mission. Between us we hold London’s rich film heritage, from feature films to the tiniest fragment of home movie – with particular strengths in public information films, newsreels, films from industry and business or amateur productions. Individually, these films show personal journ
eys, of how life has been lived. Collectively, they tell bigger stories of changing neighbourhoods, patterns of work, travel, commerce, leisure and governance. Through our work these fragile and often-neglected films can be seen and enjoyed. This precious material has an immeasurable value in civic life, cultural cohesion, education, and well-being. These glimpses of London’s past are not only a pleasure to watch, they stir personal memories, give a strong sense of place and community and offer the chance to learn about local, regional and film history. Film is ‘the gift that keeps on giving’ and we are thrilled when new generations discover new meanings in the material we share. London’s Screen Archives has three key aims:
- To locate and preserve London’s moving image collections
- To develop and sustain the region’s infrastructure (including skills, advocacy and fundraising)
- To promote audience enjoyment of and engagement with London’s screen heritage
As a network, London’s Screen Archives (LSA) is not an archive or collecting body in its own right. Instead LSA contributes to the work of existing London-based organisations to create a ‘virtual archive’ that offers a wider understanding of London’s screen history than would be available through the individual collections alone. To do this we:
- offer help and assistance in caring for precious master materials
- deliver training and services to enable source archives to make full use of their moving image collections
- co-ordinate collections, activity and information
Film London, as the capital’s film and media agency, aims to ensure London has a thriving film sector that enriches the city’s businesses and its people. The agency works with all the screen industries to sustain, promote and develop London as a major international production and film cultural capital, and it supports the development of the city’s new and emerging film-making talent. Film London is funded by the Mayor of London, the National Lottery through the BFI, and receives significant support from Arts Council England, Creative Skillset and the Heritage Lottery Fund. www.filmlondon.org.uk
