Spectrum LAB

Supported by Screen Ireland through the Skills Development Events Funding Scheme, the Queer Spectrum Film Festival (QSFF) presents Spectrum LAB, a skills-development programme for LGBTQIA+ people of colour and migrant filmmakers living in Ireland.

Taking place at the Irish Film Institute, Spectrum LAB aims to amplify emerging voices, encourage creative exchange, and support participants in strengthening their storytelling practice. The programme runs from 12–14 June 2026 as part of the festival

About the Programme

QSFF is Ireland’s first film festival dedicated to celebrating the stories of LGBTQIA+ people of colour and migrants on screen. Beyond exhibition, our mission is to empower LGBTQIA+ people of colour and migrant filmmakers across Ireland to share their perspectives on life on this island, how they experience Ireland, how they wish to be seen, and the stories that matter most to them.

Spectrum Lab, supported by Screen Ireland, brings this mission to life by creating a space for learning, dialogue, and community-building among underrepresented creatives. Eight selected filmmakers and creative producers will have the opportunity to take part in the programme, attending workshops and talks with established international filmmakers and local curators and industry professionals.

Our aims and objectives

Spectrum LAB seeks to create a supportive and inclusive space for participants to explore and expand their creative work.

The programme aims to:

  • Amplify underrepresented voices within Irish filmmaking

  • Encourage creative exchange and collaboration

  • Support participants in developing their storytelling skills

  • Foster connections with peers, mentors, and industry professionals

Rooted in the ethos of QSFF, Spectrum LAB celebrates diverse, multilingual, and multicultural perspectives, reflecting the richness of contemporary queer and migrant experiences in Ireland.

What to Expect

The programme will run from 12–14 June 2026 at the Irish Film Institute during the festival and includes:
Participants will gain valuable perspectives on filmmaking, storytelling, creative process and industry navigation, while also building meaningful connections with peers and potential mentors.

  • Three live sessions (75 minutes each)

    Saturday, 13 June 2026

    11:00 – 12:15

    Workshop Session 1, with local curators and industry professionals

    Break | 12:15 – 13:00

    13:00 – 14:15

    Workshop Session 2, with established international filmmakers

    Sunday, 14 June 2026

    12:00 – 13:15

    Workshop Session 3, with established international filmmakers

    Additional Information

    • Participants are expected to attend all sessions.

    • Further programme details and speaker announcements will follow.

    • The international guest filmmakers will be announced after 10 May 2026.

Who can apply?

  • We welcome applications from LGBTQIA+ people of colour and migrant filmmakers, storytellers, and creatives based in Ireland.

  • Whether you are at an early stage of your creative journey or already developing projects, Spectrum LAB is open to those interested in film, screen storytelling, and related creative practices.

  • Applicants may come from a range of disciplines, including directing, writing, producing, editing, performance, acting or other forms of visual and narrative storytelling. No extensive prior experience is required; what matters most is your interest in developing your voice and practice.

  • We encourage applications from marginalised creatives within the above-mentioned cohort who experience challenges in accessing industry pathways.

How to Apply

Applicants can now apply by filling out the application form link HERE

No fee for the application. The programme is free but must be accessed through the applications.

Applications close: Monday 18th May, 5 pm
Spaces are limited, and we encourage early applications.

We thank ScreenIreland for supporting this initiative through the Skills Development Events Funding Scheme.