Date of Award
1-1-2023
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
M.A. in Southern Studies
First Advisor
Andy Harper
Second Advisor
John Rash
Third Advisor
Melanie Ho
School
University of Mississippi
Relational Format
dissertation/thesis
Abstract
This MFA thesis presents a short documentary film focusing on the lives and artistic processes of four distinct artists residing in Mississippi: Andrew Bryant, Anne Scott Barrett, Jared Spears, and Stephen Brown (5th Child). The film delves into the intricacies of each artist's creative journey, capturing their unique perspectives and offering invaluable insights into their artistic endeavors.
Over the course of more than a year, this documentary underwent numerous revisions and refinements to ensure its significance both to the public audience and, most importantly, to the featured artists themselves. As an artist, the filmmaker was deeply motivated to unravel the highs and lows of these artists' careers, seeking to glean precious knowledge that could resonate with aspiring artists and inspire future generations.
This project aspired to transcend the boundaries of a mere documentary, aiming to impart valuable lessons to emerging artists and connect with a wider audience. The process of crafting this film exposed the filmmaker to a myriad of possibilities, leading to the decision to continue documenting diverse artists from around the globe in future endeavors.
Through a compelling blend of artistry and storytelling, this thesis film endeavors to share the profound experiences and creative wisdom of these four Mississippi-based artists, while charting a path for an enduring journey of artistic exploration and discovery.
Recommended Citation
Rai, Sandip, "Unveiling Mississippi's Artistic Souls: A Documentary Journey" (2023). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 2714.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/etd/2714
MFA Thesis Film Showcase for Graduate School