Man Ray described his “Cinepoem” as “not an abstract film nor a story-teller; its reasons for being are its inventions of light forms and movements.” In this workshop, we will explore the possibilities of image, text, and sound in unexpected juxtaposition, examining classic pieces of experimental cinema and video art, the forebearers of video poetry, as well as video poetry. Applying various poetic techniques to the structure, filming and editing process, participants will work towards creating and completing a short piece to be screened during Cadence.

Some experience writing poetry, with recording video (phone experience counts), and editing via Adobe Premiere or Final Cut Pro is recommended. If you have questions about your experience and this workshop, email jonah@nwfilmforum.org. Workshop participants will receive complimentary admission with a guest to the showcase in which their final piece is screened!

“Words would be redundant in film if they were used as a further projection from the image. However, if they were brought in on a different level, not issuing from the image, but as another dimension relating to it, then it is the two things together that make a poem.” – Maya Deren