Vision Maker Media invites proposals for programs intended for Public Television that represent the experiences, values and cultures of American Indians and Alaska Natives.
Deadline to submit proposals is March 1, 2017.
Support for the Vision Maker Media Public Television Program Fund is provided by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. For more information, please download and read the complete guidelines.
Film Screenings Offer Opportunity for Community Outreach
"Film screenings are so important to create dialogue and cultural understanding," said Katsitsionni Fox, producer of the new film
Ohero:kon - Under the Husk.
"Native people are homogenized, stereotyped and misunderstood by popular culture. Native filmmakers offer a window into a world not often seen. I love the screenings we have had in Native communities and the opportunity for community outreach. The people have had great questions, and I have been able to share more about the topic of our youth and the impact the Rites of Passage ceremony is having on them and our community."
Hosting a screening is a great way to share, empower and engage your family, friends, colleagues and community members through Native stories. Complete a request form online.
'The Last Conquistador' Reveals Collision of Past, Present
Producer John J. Valadez believes that his film, The Last Conquistador, demonstrates many points of view that are not all equal. This month his film is featured on Vision Maker Media's "40 Years. 40 Films. 40 Weeks" project during the week of Feb. 21. He answers several important questions about his filmmaking experience.
Q. Why should other producers and filmmakers work with Vision Maker Media? A. Because they have a hell of a lot of experience, they are professional, they know what they are doing, they know how to get a work on the air, in festivals and in front of an audience...but most of all they have a passion for what they do. In a world that is often cynical and self-absorbed, Vision Maker is a wellspring on integrity, because they believe in the mission: to bring outstanding Native voices to a broad audience in a way that will be impactful, informative...and yes...I know it sounds corny but it is true...very often inspiring!
Q. What aspect of working with Vision Maker Media was the most worthwhile or rewarding for you? A. They have always been very supportive. In the media world it is often hard to know who you can trust, who you can believe in, who will be an honest broker, who will put the interests of the work and the community first. Vision Maker represents an old idea that unfortunately seems to be out of fashion these days: integrity.
Q. What one experience would you want audiences to take away after viewing your film? A.That life is complicated. There are many points of view. They are not all equal...but if we want to move forward we have to listen carefully and struggle to understand what is really going on. We need this skill in order to be a functioning democracy.
Q. What advice would you give to filmmakers beginning their careers? A. Seek the company of those you admire. Many people will tell you "no." They will say, "It can't be done. It's not feasible. Be realistic." Don't believe them! Let me tell you.. I have had so much rejection in my life. So many people have put me down...talked down to me...disparaged me...belittled me in my career...if I thought about it too much I would probably have a breakdown. Believe in yourself and forge ahead undaunted. Throw your heart and soul into your work and keep your eyes on the prize. Don't dream it. Be it!
New Film Follows Two Parallel Stories in History
A haunting and visually stunning dark fairy tale drama that blends the horrors of both fantasy and real life historical events, In the Beginning was Water and Sky celebrates its World Premiere at the acclaimed San Luis Obispo International Film Festival on March 16, 2017. This vividly imaginative short film follows two parallel stories about a Chippewa boy in the 1960s who freezes to death escaping Indian Boarding School, and a Chippewa girl in the 1700s who finds her entire village frozen in time and place.