And So It Begins
I write this to you begrudgingly. Even though I’m spending nearly every waking hour on this project, I’m finding it hard to write some form of introduction or announcement. For two reasons:
Its form is shifting
I’m likely wrapped up in a creative project
But alas, it’s super helpful to have things documented! So here I am, with a 1 hour timer, ginger tea in hand, and this draft open.
What is this?
TLDR: This is a studio that pilots films, media, and experiments around climate and progress. All projects will be pretty different, but a couple of core beliefs
Belief in human ingenuity, pro-social
Optimistic, hopeful, action oriented
Rooted in research - of text and experience
Fun!
Projects will likely mix a text type with a topic. Anything in the ideological extended universe is fair game.
Why?
Annie Dillard’s words often ring in my brain: “how you spend your days is how you spend your life”. I am, by nature, someone that loves to work. This is either a symptom of being dropped as a child or being surrounded by awesome people in all the work I do.
But if life = days = work, I better choose work that embodies who I want to be. This project feels like it. It feels hopeful, creative, and dynamic. If those words were descriptors on my tombstone, I wouldn’t be mad.
It feels like an antidote to all the alarmism and doom. It’s nourishing for the soul
Why a studio? Why not just do this under your name?
The answer to this is actually highly tactical. People just take you more seriously when your pronouns are we/us.
As this progresses I’d also love to bring on more people. Being a studio allows me to do that without centering my name.
How do I get involved?
There are a couple avenues! Here are a couple options, depending on what you want to share! I’m immensely grateful for the people who have offered pieces of themselves so far.
Your mind
I’m being pretty deliberate with who I share this Substack with. If you happen to be here or find this on your own, I trust your taste! You are cordially invited to reply to these updates with anything you so choose. It can be feedback, quotes, or selfies. For projects where it is relevant, you may be listed in the credits.
Sometimes I’ll make specific asks for expertise or opinions, but generally I am squarely in the camp that feedback is a gift. If you want to tear my ideas to shreds in a well substantiated way, I’d love to hear it.
Your time
Many of the projects will be collaborative. If you have an idea for something you want to see come to life, my inbox is open.
Your funds
Patronage is in its comeback era. If you are in a place where you’re able, any funds will help expand capacity, fund equipment, and produce more projects. You can donate here. For projects where it is relevant, you’ll be listed as a sponsor <3
What’s coming up?
Lots! And I know a great way to follow along