By Abe Wynen, CSI, Senior Commercial Colourist, Red Lab, Toronto

In 2022, I moved to Canada from my home in Melbourne, Australia but it feels as if I have been part of the Canadian film industry for a small lifetime. In just three years, I have witnessed the ebbs and flows of a market impacted by strikes, tech and policy. It’s been a rollercoaster for us all, and in many ways, a new beginning.

While my perspective is limited to my experience, there’s no doubt that the film and media industry is changing rapidly. Nevertheless, while things change, if business is up or down, one thing remain the same, and that’s the community.  

I can say with a whole heart that I’ve never managed to achieve a good grade without the support of the artists around me. For starters, without a picture, there’s nothing to grade. Although it’s the post-production team who help solve those nasty tech problems, it’s the long nights, and hours from assistants, producers, and many others that make everything possible. Most importantly, it’s fellow colourists who inspire me, and the reason I want to bring us together.

Since launching the Canadian Chapter, we’ve had several catch-ups. Although it is still the early days, I’m grateful to have such a sweet group of colourists I can call mates, rely on when called upon, and nerd out over some good colour chats. We are currently building our Canadian Chapter page to feature the work of all our members and showcase the outstanding grades from around the country. So please send us your work so we can update our page.