Filmmaker might be a bit of a misnomer—many directors and animators have moved their operations to the digital world. Take, for example, avant-garde animator Jo Dery; if you’re sleuthing for information online, you’ll find that she has quite the digital presence, including some videos on social media film site Vimeo. Her whimsical animations combine collage, illustration, digital manipulation, photomontage, puppetry, and print. Her work feels reminiscent of MTV’s Liquid Television. (A program from the 1990’s dedicated to experimental animation.) Hearing she had an upcoming film screening at the University of Toledo, we sat down with Dery for a Q and A session.
You have quite the online presence, do you think that’s important for a filmmaker?
It’s definitely advantageous in order to get your work out there. However, sometimes if you’re screening a film at a festival it’s not a good idea to have it posted. I personally developed a community before the internet craze, however it can be useful to share your portfolio and is a good way for someone to see your work. It also works well when writing for artist grants.
Tell me a little bit about yourself, how did you get started as a filmmaker?
I studied at RISD (Rhode Island School of Design.) After graduation I wrote a grant for a film. I explored other media including books and illustrations, which I showcased at galleries.
You’re presenting new films at the University of Toledo—what are they about?
I’m actually going to be presenting around 12 short animated films, which will be around five minutes in length. My work is about imagination and experimenting with story telling. It has a whimsical aspect to it. I like to make animation fun!
Can you name some of the animation shorts you’re going to be screening?
Echoes of Bats and Men, Peeks, Chapter Three, The Star Faced One, Heat Spell
What is your connection to the University of Toledo community?
I knew Holly Hey (Associate Professor at UT) from RISD, and she has invited me to Toledo. I often do visiting artist talks and screenings at colleges. I moved to Chicago to teach at DePaul; this is my 3rd year.
How do you think social media websites like Vimeo and Youtube are affecting independent film making?
It’s good for building connections and meeting others in the artist community. It allows you to work with a bigger audience. However, since it takes a lot of time to maintain these sites, I’m not a huge social media person. I’d rather create and make stuff.
What advice do you have for aspiring filmmakers?
I teach and there’s a lot of students who doubt themselves in film making. You have to believe in your project and learn to break down the process into manageable decisions. Don’t censor your creativity; let it take shape.
How do you see the artist community playing a role as a filmmaker?
It’s a huge thing! Community gives your work context. Community is about sharing resources (ideas, materials etc.) I’ve been a part of strong artist communities and that support has been wonderful.
How do you see your work evolving in the future?
What I’ve been doing is exploring new context in gallery and exhibitions. I’m looking to continue finding ways to exhibit animation outside of film fest screenings. Experimentation is key.
Dery's films will screen on Friday, January 17, 7:30pm. $5, $3, students and seniors, free to film majors with ID. Dery will teach a free animation workshop on Saturday, January 18, 9:30 am. UT Center for Performing Arts, 1910 W. Rocket Dr. 419-530-4546. jodery.com
