The Production Design Research and Education Network (PD–REN) is a recently founded network addressing production design’s critical yet overlooked role in film studies and training. By establishing an international network of researchers and educators we are working to enhance understanding of the area and bridge the gap between academia, practice and industry.

The idea of building a network to connect PD educators, researchers and practitioners with an interest in these areas was the brainchild of Jane Barnwell. After an initial scoping survey in the UK, the first Production Designer’s Gathering in Greece in 2022 included an Educators session, moderated by Jo Briscoe and Juliet John. This provided a fantastic opportunity to introduce the network to a group of International collaborators and Jane, Jo and Juliet became the founders of PD-REN. The network has been regularly meeting ever since, growing alongside the international community of our great friends at the Production Designers Collective.

2023 saw the launch of International Production Design Week and PD-REN worked to connect our members with industry events, panels and exhibitions around the world. In 2024, the scope expanded again, with Jane and Jo facilitating a full-day Educators symposium as an add-on to the 2024 Gathering.

With a wide and growing global membership we are working to connect those with an interest in Production Design teaching and research. If this sounds like you, join us using the Network menu!