The power of the documentary film is its ability to shine a spotlight on issues, stories, and perspectives that would otherwise go unheard and thus unnoticed. Because of our belief in this power, SPNN created Doc U, a mentorship in digital documentary filmmaking for low income adults. Now entering it’s second year, this intensive mentorship program guides participants through the process of creating a 10-minute documentary on the topic of their choosing. In 15 weeks, participants will learn how to shape a story and conduct interviews, along with basic camera operation and non-linear editing, through classes, workshops and mentorship.
This program is geared towards giving low-income adults and people of color access to the tools needed to tell the stories of their communities. Participants will gain access to HD cameras, professional editing software, field gear, while gaining the knowledge to use these tools to tell a compelling story. To help offset the time commitment, SPNN is offering a small stipend at the completion of the program.
Right: Mary Mabry, Doc U Year One participant
Throughout the program participants will be mentored by SPNN’s professional staff; have access to the knowledge of local documentarians; and get feedback from their peers. Work nights are built into the program to allow for peers to work together on honing their skills. Mentors will get together with participants for one-on-one meetings to flush out story ideas and to keep them on track to finishing their doc.
Participants will need to commit to every Monday evening from 6-9PM from May 20 through August 26, plus the evening of Tuesday, June 11. The final community showcase of work will be held from 2-4PM on Saturday, Sept. 7. There will be no class on Memorial Day, Monday May 27.
To apply please visit our website www.spnn.org/docu and fill out the online application or download the PDF below and return it to the Access Desk. The deadline to apply is April 19, 2013. Click here to watch films from Doc U: Year One.
SPNN’s Doc U program is made possible in part by a grant provided by the Minnesota State Arts Board through an appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature from the State’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund with money from the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.
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