Youth FX, through a partnership with Upstate Independents, introduced young people ages 12-15 to digital filmmaking and multimedia production. Over four weeks this past July, this free summer program taught multimedia techniques of self expression and provided the opportunity to learn all aspects of film making, from camerawork and lighting to script writing. The beginning of the program focused on team building, developing critical thinking skills and introducing youth to the collaborative, creative and technical aspects of filmmaking. Soon thereafter two groups were formed with one working on a 10-page script while the other focused on documentary film production and produced a 5-minute short about GSCA’s Youth Organics (YO!) summer gardening program. The program culminated in a four day shoot where YouthFX participants worked side by side with local film professionals to produce, direct and act in a their own short film. Check back to keep informed about local screenings of the Youth FX films and news about next year’s program.

Youth FX participants came from all over the city of Albany and were instructed by local filmmakers and digital media educators, Bhawin Suchak and Chris Ricci. Funding was provided in part by the New York State Council on the Arts funded the program, with help from Stewarts, Lark Tavern and numerous individual donors.

Part of our youth's summer eXperience with youthFX was to explore all aspects of filmmaking with local film industry professionals. Here's a teaser of the film we made. Enjoy:

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YouthFX: Film eXperience is a 6 week summer program like no other in the Capital District, where youth aged 13-15 will learn about what it takes to make movies. A collaboration between Upstate Independents and Grand Street Community Arts, YouthFX, seeks to inspire and empower youth in Albany’s South End neighborhoods through an understanding and hands-on exploration of the creative and technical aspects of digital filmmaking. A team of experienced media arts educators and local independent filmmakers will guide participants through the entire production process from script to screen. Focusing on visual storytelling, narrative structure, performance, camera skills and editing techniques, YouthFX will give participants a chance to express themselves by producing several digital video projects throughout the first four weeks. During the last two weeks a group of students will work side by side with a professional filmmakers from Upstate Independents to produce and direct a 10 minute short film which will be screened at a local movie theater in the fall. This is a great opportunity for youth in the South End to have fun this summer, collaborate with peers and experience all the excitement of filmmaking.

YouthFX is made possible with public funds from the New York Council of The Arts (NYSCA) and thanks to donations from various individuals. 

For more information please call: 465-5087 or email: youthfx@grandarts.org