Artist Statement 2

Creativity is such an important aspect to humanity. Without it we would not be able to enjoy it’s innumerable facets, such as music, art, movies, computers, automobiles and electricity to name a few. Creativity has done so much for modern society, and has provided opportunity in area’s that didn’t even exist a hundred years ago. When we are young, I feel that we are encouraged to follow our dreams, to be creative to not give up. Interestingly enough the same individuals who supported you when you said you wanted to be an astronaut, artist or inventor later on would rescind their support and tell you to “be practical.” When someone wants to make a living in a creative profession, they most likely will be on their own while pursuing their creative dreams. Very few are encouraged to reach their potential to fulfill their dreams, because it is too risky or “impossible.” I wanted to write stories of all the discouraged individuals who never even gave it a try, because they let others tell them what they were capable of. How can anyone know what you are capable of without trying? I believe with all the discouragement, many sell themselves short and quit before they begin.

            While doing this assignment I realized how much you could say with so little. In the book there is a picture of a grocery store where a 14-year-old African American said something to a white woman and was murdered for it. This is a tragic story and is told with a picture and a few words. Sometimes saying less is more powerful, and with a photograph or an illustration so much can be told without a single word. “A picture can say a thousand words.” Is a very cliché statement, but is very valid with regards to this assignment. As a filmmaker, gaining an understanding of how to communicate visually will make you extremely effective in your career.