Co-op City teens who are this years participants in the Full Circle Project, had the opportunity to screen scenes from Zemira, a new film in development, and meet the filmmakers, Mecca Woods and Curtis John who also shared their insights into the art and business of independent filmmaking.
According to Iman Drammeh Nur, director of the Full Circle film program, professional artist visits play an important role during the workshops. “We are fortunate to have a network of professionals share their skills and knowledge. When our students see how ideas are planned and executed, it takes the mystery out of filmmaking and encourages them to have fun creating moving images, be responsible artists, and more importantly, take ownership of their own voices.”
The Full Circle Project is designed as a language intensive workshop and is Co-op City’s only filmmaking program for youth to explore their interests through hands-on activities. These include everything from designing conceptual story boards to editing final narrative films. In addition, participants acquire technical and business competencies that will help them academically, in their social lives, and future careers.
The program is facilitated by The Drammeh Institute, Inc. a 501c (3) non- profit media initiative that connects people and ideas through media and partnerships to sustain heritage, culture, and support professional development. Past supporters of the program are The Bronx Council on the Arts, NYC Department of Cultural Affairs, Congressman Joseph Crowley and The United Way of New York City. To learn more about the Full Circle Project write to: Fcproject@live.com.
