This program is on hiatus – but watch for our Development Field Trip Opportunities in partnership with Oregon Film and Oregon Made Creative Foundation.
WHAT WAS THIS RESIDENCY?
The Eastern Oregon Film Festival ran two successful Filmmaker Residency Programs in 2021 and 2023. Funding for this program is no longer available and EOFF looks for new and creative ways to bring filmmakers to and grow filmmakers in The Grande Ronde Valley.
The residency was a month-long program for writers and directors, providing them with designated time and space to work on feature-length screenplays. The goal of this 4-week program was for artists to leave with a draft that had the potential to be produced in Oregon in the coming years and for attendees to learn about the resources and opportunities available to them for filmmaking in the region. Most importantly, it offered a dedicated and focused time for writers to produce work in whatever form they saw fit. Unlike most artist residencies, it was specifically geared toward filmmakers!
Overall, twelve filmmakers visited our area and have scripts in the works that are inspired by our region and culture. Breakup Season, the result of Resident Alum H. Nelson Tracey was the first of the program participants to return to La Grande and produce the film Breakup Season. More to come.
Why did we do this?
We created the residency because we believe in the power of giving creatives a sacred time and space to focus solely on writing and developing their ideas. It’s a rare opportunity to step away from the inevitable commitments and distractions of everyday life and immerse oneself in the purpose of creation—something that can be hard to achieve when working alone. A successful residency balances ample solo time for deep, uninterrupted work with the support of a community of like-minded artists to share goals and inspire one another. What made the EOFF Residency truly unique was its focus on filmmakers, providing them with a tailored experience unlike any other.
Watch quick takes from our 2021 Cohort about what makes our area a keen place to be to write a screenplay.
Some backstory and more from our 2021 Cohort! Video below.
This project is presented in part with support from these fine folk!
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