Business Development for the Arts & Culture Sector
CALVIN WALKER
Jamaican-born and holding British and French nationalities, Calvin Walker has a background in visual arts and technology.
He began his career as an independent photographer before transitioning into multimedia development. He then spent two decades at Film France, the former French Film Commission, where he led event strategies, international collaborations, and promotional initiatives to position France as a key destination for film and post-production.
An expert in working with international artists, film professionals, and institutions, Calvin provides strategic guidance and representation, drawing on his deep industry knowledge. He has collaborated with leading film and TV industry events, including Cannes Film Market, FOCUS London, and Berlinale EFM.
In addition to his consulting work, Calvin is a guest advisor for art and design schools.
Clients & collaborations
FILM & TV INDUSTRY
Cannes Marché du Film • Berlinale EFM • BFI – British Film Institute • Olsberg SPI • PGA – Production Guild of America • ScreenSkills – UK • The Location Guide • FOCUS • Busan Asian Contents & Film Market • Hong Kong FILMART • Paris Images Production Forum • Series Mania • The Network of French Film Commissions • The Nordic Film Commissions • Nordisk Film & TV Fond • AFCI – Association of Film Commissioners International • EUFCN – European Film Commissions Network • LMGI – Location Managers Guild International • Screen International • Variety • BFC – British Film Commission • PGGB – Production Guild of Great Britain • Pact • I Mediate Clearance • ARRI France • SetKeeper • Pixomondo • UTA – United Talent Agency • UPC – Union des Producteurs de Cinéma • Embassy of France in Berlin • Consulate of France in Los Angeles • Froggie Production • Peninsula Film • Sixteen Films…
ARTS & CULTURE
Parsons School Paris • Galleri Image – Denmark • Atelier Max Wechsler • Léa Dumayet Sculptures…
Selected Projects
INSPIRATION TOUR BROCHURES
I was commissioned to review and refine the English-language Inspiration Tour brochures for three French regional film commissions: Bretagne/Pays de la Loire, Normandie Images, and Hauts-de-France. Drawing on my knowledge of the international film industry and location filming in France, I ensured each brochure communicated effectively with English-speaking producers and decision-makers.
OLSBERG SPI
Olsberg SPI engaged me to contribute to a detailed study for a foreign government, conducted in both English and French. The study aims to strengthen the country’s screen industries through strategic recommendations.
Drawing on my expertise in film commissions, crew training, and filming infrastructure, I have advised on various aspects of production support. My role includes research, case studies, interviews, and workshops with film & TV professionals and government representatives, as well as reviewing French translations to ensure clarity and accuracy.
FRANCO-NORDIC COLLABORATIONS
I initiated collaborations between the French and Nordic screen industries, organising networking events and exchanges with backing from bodies such as the CNC and Nordisk Film. These efforts led to a lasting connection: I paired SF Studios with a trusted French line producer, playing a key role in their decision to film the Netflix-backed adaptation of Je m’appelle Agneta in France.
DESTINATION FRANCE
An annual initiative to connect French film & TV professionals with UK industry counterparts.
I coordinated a delegation of over 20 French production service companies, professional associations, and film commissions to attend the FOCUS London tradeshow. This involved curating a tailored program of networking sessions, panels, and presentations, as well as coaching participants on how to effectively present their services to UK-based clients.