Staff, students, alumni and members of the local community gathered at Leeds Trinity University this week to celebrate Professor Graham Roberts' Inaugural Professorial Lecture about his life as a film producer and researcher.
Professor Roberts inspired and entertained guests on Tuesday 10 April, sharing personal anecdotes about his experiences behind the camera, reinforcing the message that "without people, you're nothing" (Joe Strummer, The Clash) - which was also the title of his lecture.
He recalled fond memories of working with colleagues, friends and family, many of whom were in the audience to join in the celebration, and specifically focused on collaboration within the film industry.
He said: "You don't make filmmakers by asking them to make a film. You make filmmakers by working together, building a relationship and making a film collaboratively."
The lecture also presented an opportunity to discuss the positive impact that bothTrinity Vision andiRIS (International Research Centre for Interactive Storytelling) at Leeds Trinity University have had on academia, filmmaking and the local community.
As Director of both initiatives, Professor Roberts spoke highly of their importance in creating collaborative and interactive documentaries, bringing together staff, students and in particular school children from the surrounding area.
Following the lecture, guests were invited to participate in an interactive screening of silent documentary film Man with the Movie Camera. During the screening, they were encouraged to create music to accompany the film, along with the help of a live band.
Professor Margaret A House OBE, Vice-Chancellor at Leeds Trinity University, said: "This evening has been a true celebration of Professor Roberts' passion and expertise in filmmaking. His commitment to his research, career and Leeds Trinity University can be seen through his support of PGR students and his leadership of Trinity Vision and iRIS, which have helped the University to establish strong bonds with the local community.
"It was fantastic to see staff, students and alumni come together with Professor Roberts' family and friends in recognition of his contributions to teaching, research and filmmaking."
Professor Graham Roberts joined Leeds Trinity University in 2011. He is Director of Postgraduate Research Studies, Director of iRIS and Founding Director of Trinity Vision. He's also a film producer, director, and CEO and Managing Director of Endgame Pictures.