Evaluation

Throughout the semester I felt as though I developed dynamically as a digital film student. In “Al-Kimia” I worked in a production group for the first time, which meant I had to extend my capabilities in trusting my teammates. This paid off and made the workload manageable so that I was able to enjoy the project. Initially the preproduction phase got a little chaotic because we wanted to abide by a strict schedule. However, I felt like the preparations paved the way towards a smooth-sailing production. It meant that we could meet Sharon Henry and work with dance professionally. It meant that we had space to work with set backs, like the risk assessment requirements that Tim Savage implemented. It meant that the team could have a good amount of editing time. It meant that we could enjoy the project.

After having done this project, what I would do different next time is that I would actually scout for proper locations. Working in studio is too much of a minimalistic concept and deprives our film of a establishing wide shot.

I discovered the aesthetic value of having a proper location whilst documenting Laura Olohan with her “Buffoon Society” piece. After being inducted to the glidecam, the dancers from “The Dance Movement” helped my team realize how important the idea of space is, especially when considering what can be expressed in a space.   

In “Hand of the Artist” I definitely enjoyed working on a more conceptual basis. However I felt that the project was conceptually driven on discussions between Melissa and myself, as opposed to critical theories like that found in “The Future of the Image” by Jacques Ranciere. Unfortunately my sound for this piece could have been better, however I did not anticipate that I would want to interview her. Despite this set back, I found that I really enjoyed experimenting with camera framing. Using Al’s gopro really helped examine the habits that certain artists have, such as Melissa’s tendencies to step back and speculate on her piece. It also fulfills my need to portray the significance of authorship and “hand of the artist.”

All in all, this semester of DFSA proved to be one of my most exciting.This would not have been possible without the support of my peers, and I am most definitely looking forward to future projects with them next year.