Joel Sharpe
Top Designs 2006: Media
Ringwood Secondary College, Ringwood
Wurundjeri Country
2023: Video editor and independent filmmaker
Joel Sharpe is an award-winning video editor and documentary filmmaker based in Millowl, Phillip Island. He is the Director of WildArk Productions and has worked extensively with leading global brands, including Mercedes-Benz and The Wall Street Journal. Joel refined his editing skills while working for a post-production office in London, which later led him to work in wildlife films.
Describe your career trajectory since exhibiting in Top Designs.
After high school, I decided to pursue a career in filmmaking. I missed out on my first preference at university, but Top Designs gave me the confidence to take a year off from study, build my experience and try again. I was accepted into a Bachelor of Film & Television the following year. Now I’ve built a brilliant career in film, working all over the world and loving what I do.
My Media Film project, ‘The Calling’, was the first surf film I ever attempted. After university, I travelled to Central America with a mission to make a feature length surf film. The trip lasted seven years, during which I shot news pieces for MSNBC and CNN, and worked on international music festivals and film projects. Eventually, I made the film that I had set out to produce, ‘Las Olas’, which went on to win numerous awards.
How would you describe your design practice?
In recent years, I have focused more on environmental conservation and documentary work. For me, these projects are always the most inspiring and rewarding; I like to consider what is really important and find a way to use my practice for good.
I aim to expand my production company, WildArk Productions, and dedicate more time to larger scale documentary filmmaking to create nature-based content encouraging conscious thought and action.
What advice would you share with people starting off in your industry?
Stay true to what inspires you the most. In the film industry, it is easy compare yourself to the work other people are making. My best work has emerged when I have remained true to myself and followed my instincts.
