Consulate’s Chad Sipkin on the Importance of Mentorship

Mentorship has always been how artists grow; even with all the technological advancements, that human connection is still irreplaceable.

It fosters bold, daring work and shows the real value of learning by doing, all while a natural safety net is in place.With new talent in collaborative spaces early on, a culture of learning, side by side, encourages creative exchanges between experienced and up-and-coming editors.

It helps cultivate a point of view
When I meet new editing talent, one of my favourite things to do is ask them to pick fifteen stills from a film I’ve worked on. It’s not about testing their technical skills - it’s about seeing their taste, imagination, and perspective at play. I want to know what kind of images inspire them and see how they explain their choices.

Knowing what you stand for as an artist, making thoughtful decisions, and being able to back them up are what turn a good editor into a sought-after collaborator. For junior editors, figuring out what makes their perspective unique is key to their growth. As a mentor, my job is to help them excel in the areas that excite them most.

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