Katiana Weems: Filmmaking, Teaching, and Authentic Storytelling in Baltimore
Ready to explore? Tune in to 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, hosted by host Rob Lee and accompanied by today's guest Katiana Weems, a highly accomplished director, cinematographer, and editor with international recognition. As an alumna of Syracuse University's esteemed Film Production Program, she graduated with top honors as a VPA scholar. Her dedication to film education is evident through her involvement as a TA and guest lecturer in the same program. Katiana's educational journey also includes international film studies at FAMU University, complemented by an AA in Film Studies. Her professional trajectory includes interning with Somesuch in London and LA, where she delved into image research, and subsequently transitioning to teaching at Baltimore School of the Arts. Her expertise as a director, cinematographer, and editor shines in diverse projects, including the acclaimed "To Be Black" and an upcoming BSA Nutcracker documentary. Katiana's commitment to teaching extends to conducting cinematography and lighting workshops at prestigious institutions like Johns Hopkins University and Syracuse University. Her cinematic narratives are characterized by their dynamism and emotional depth, reflecting a profound desire to connect with audiences. As a passionate educator, Katiana empowers her students to authentically convey stories that resonate with their own identities and communities. Currently based in Baltimore, she was recognized as a semi-finalist for the esteemed 2022 Janet & Walter Sondheim Prize.
In this episode, we delve into:
- Katiana Weems' journey of discovering her passion for filmmaking at a young age, and how that passion has blossomed into a pursuit of creating impactful and visually captivating films.
- The world of film education with us as we explore how Katiana's joy in teaching film has not only shaped her students' growth but also enriched her understanding of the craft and its transformative power.
- Katiana's groundbreaking project "To Be Black," where Broadway actors lend their voices to a powerful soliloquy juxtaposed with footage from the 2020 protests, uncovering how her artistic vision amplifies important social narratives.
- A thought-provoking conversation about the art of storytelling in film, where we discuss Katiana's dedication to evoking genuine emotions in her audience and her commitment to using the medium as a means to connect and inspire.
- The accolades and recognition that have shaped Katiana's journey, as we explore her achievements, including her status as a Sondheim Artscape Prize finalist and a fellow of the Saul Zaentz Innovation Fund, and how they have contributed to her growth as a filmmaker.
Katiana shares her journey in filmmaking and teaching. From her early days of making movies with a Barbie camcorder to studying film in college, Katiana's passion for storytelling and creating meaningful films has always been a driving force. She discusses her first major project, "To Be Black," which brought together Broadway actors to perform the "to be or not to be" soliloquy juxtaposed with footage from the 2020 protests. Katiana also talks about the joys of teaching film and the satisfaction of seeing her students' growth and understanding of the craft. She reflects on her recent accomplishments, including being a finalist for the Sondheim Artscape Prize and a fellow at the Saul Zaentz Innovation Fund. Despite her success, Katiana remains focused on the next steps in her career and continues to push herself creatively.
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Host: Rob Lee
Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.
Production:
- Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel Alexis
- Edited by Daniel Alexis
- Show Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and Transistor
Photos:
- Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.
- Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.
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