Set Design & Production Graduate Gains Invaluable Industry Experience on SKY HISTORY's The Gunpowder Siege

15 November 2024

The ��ϳԹ�� (��ϳԹ��) is proud to announce the accomplishments of recent graduate Hannah Elwin, whose work experience with the art department on The Gunpowder Siege has contributed to her career’s promising start. The TV series, which airs on the Sky HISTORY Channel, tells a compelling historical narrative, and the production’s authentic settings across South Wales were shaped by the skilled hands of Hannah and her fellow set designers.

Hannah, who graduated in 2024 with First Class Honours in BA Set Design & Production, was part of the set decorating and scenic art team. She supported an experienced crew and worked directly on creating and adapting props and scenery to bring historical authenticity to life. Under the mentorship of The Gunpowder Siege Art Department, headed by award-winning Production Designer and ��ϳԹ�� Professor of Practice Ed Thomas, Hannah gained first-hand industry insight.

Ed Thomas, known for acclaimed productions like Resident Evil, Escape Room, and Doctor Who, curated an exceptional learning environment for ��ϳԹ�� students. Hannah, who is also skilled in Scenic Art and Stage Management, had the opportunity to shadow the Stand-by Art Director Ciaran Thompson, contribute to Scenic Art when extra help was needed, and work as a Prop Hand.

Reflecting on her experience, Hannah said:

“Completing work experience on the set of The Gunpowder Siege for Sky HISTORY was a privilege. The contacts I made during my time on set will be invaluable to the start of my career in this industry. I am grateful to Ed Thomas for allowing me to shadow the Art Department he put together, who were always welcoming and provided a great learning experience. Ed provided much appreciated wisdom and encouragement to take leaps and put myself out there.”

The Gunpowder Siege Art Department also expressed their appreciation for Hannah’s commitment and talent:

“Thank you, Hannah, for your hard work and commitment. Best wishes from your co-conspirators on The Gunpowder Siege.”

��ϳԹ�� is committed to providing students with industry-aligned education and real-world experience, and Hannah’s achievements exemplify the value of these hands-on learning opportunities. Rob Axtell, second year BA Set Design & Production student at ��ϳԹ�� also worked in the SFX team for two weeks on work experience.

��ϳԹ�� Co-Programme Manager: BA Set Design & Production Stacey Jo Atkinson, said:

“The best part of the job is seeing our students and graduates going out into the industry. The Set Design and Production degree provides the students with a tool kit of skills to prepare them for industry and gives them confidence to pursue a variety of future opportunities and careers paths.”

The Gunpowder Siege is available to watch on Sky HISTORY every Monday at 9 p.m. Sky HISTORY is available on Sky 123 (Scotland 124), Sky Glass / Sky Stream 115, and Virgin 131.

For more information on ��ϳԹ��’s programmes in Set Design & Production, please visit: Set Design and Production (Full-time) | University of Wales Trinity Saint David