M’CHIGEENG—Weengushk Film Institute (WFI) has had a busy year, with new partnerships and staff coming on board and plans underway to offer a series of workshops beginning this January that will help forward the organization’s goal of developing a new generation of Native filmmakers.
“I have been very busy developing partnerships for WFI and these partnerships are looking very promising,” said founder and renown Cree filmmaker Shirley Cheechoo of M’Chigeeng. “WFI is also developing new programming to be announced in the New Year.”
Erin Medakovic has been appointed as the new Marketing and Communications Officer at Weengushk Film Institute and she has been kept busy in recent weeks. “There is much to do in preparation for next year,” said Ms. Medakovic. “WFI will be offering Winter Weekend Workshops beginning in January that will run through to April.”
Ms. Medakovic noted that in January, WFI is facilitating a Photography and Filmmaking Workshop, as well as an Acting Workshop.
“The Photography and Filmmaking Workshop is a beginner-level course, which explores the art of visual storytelling and provides a firm overview of the technical foundation in how to effectively use the camera, lighting, and other tools to convey your message,” she explained. “The course will also cover the essential topics of photography and filmmaking, such as story, continuity, and collaboration.”
Ms. Medakovic noted that the skills acquired in these areas will give participants “the ability to create basic as well as more elaborate productions to achieve their goals.”
The Acting Workshop will be a beginner-level course and provides the best opportunity for the committed actor to flex their acting muscles and refine their craft, she said. “Actors will explore how to apply a back-story to the characters they are creating, while working on contemporary and classical scenes and monologues. Emphasis is placed on learning to make the best physical, emotional and vocal choices. Each participant will leave with a headshot and will potentially meet with a casting director.”
The application deadline for Lab 1 is January 15, 2016 and the workshop will begin in September 2016. Interested potential students are urged to contact WFI at 705-377-6011.
As a non-profit, charitable organization, WFI achieves its mission in part through the support of local, provincial, and federal funders. WFI is currently applying for and has received funding in the past from NOHFC, FedNor, Ontario Arts Council, Ontario Trillium Foundation and Canada Council for the Arts, noted Ms. Medakovic. “Other private donors and sponsors have also been integral in funding WFI’s program initiatives,” she said. “Those interested in donating are able to do so at help.weengushk.com.”’
