The Sketchley Experience

A love letter to Mr. Sketchley's philosophy on the arts and how he's
helped so many kids discover their passion in life.

​In this six minute documentary director Sage Durrant, Ella Gray and Christina Braithwaite reflect on their time at Rosedale Heights School of the Arts and talk about how Barrie Sketchley's love for the arts is the reason they're where they are today!

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The Team

I'm Sage Durrant and I am the director of this documentary! I wanted to make this film about my high school because it holds a special place in my heart. Rosedale is an amazing school with an extraordinary principal. It was at that school that I found my love for film and Mr. Sketchley's love for the arts and watching students succeed allowed me to pursue my growing interest for film. Art is incredibly important in our world and society and going to an arts focused high school was one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life. This film is a love letter to Rosedale, to my friends, peers and teachers and to Mr. Sketchley.

I wanted to dip my toe in the water of producing and when Sage pitched me her idea on a documentary about her former principal I wanted to be a part. I did not go to an arts high school but art has always been a big part of my life and my family and I want to share this story of an amazing guy trying to inspire kids with art.

I wanted to work on Sketchley because similarly to our director Sage, I also went to an arts school. The importance of the arts in high schools and the principles at these schools are so important and I wanted to be able to help her tell this story in support of Rosedale and the arts!

I met Sage at a party as she was leaving and we sat and talked about filmmaking for a bit, I mentioned I enjoy assistant directing and tossing together paperwork and she told me about her documentary, I knew immediately that it was going to be a really solid project so we discussed the prospect of having me on board and I was honoured with the position of production manager which blew me away. I was expecting to be a PA on set but being able to participate in a key role in such a great story really is a treat, and I have had a fantastic time doing so.

​I chose to work on this film because I have a strong appreciation for what Sketchley created and the environment and opportunities he created for art students.​

I choose to work on Sketchley because I am highly passionate about the arts and believe in the importance of giving teens and young adults the opportunity to express themselves artistically. Being an editor on this project I’m excited to show the highlights of Rosedale Heights amazing principal and all the good he’s done for the students!

I am a gaffer because lighting is awesome. Also I decided to work on Sketchley because I wanted to be part of an amazing crew! I was also interested in learning about art high schools as I never got to attend one myself.

​Sage is an awesome director and I wanted to be on her set.​

As someone who went to an arts school myself, I am so excited to help tell the story of another arts school! The production design of this shoot has been so fun to work on, and I love the creative way that Sage chose to tell this story! Can’t wait for everyone to see it!!

Behind the scenes photos!