This is a guest post by Kathryn “Ryn” Cole, a 2024 summer LOCI Program participant. Ryn works in the Library’s Office of Communications.
Of the People: Widening the Path is proud to announce our involvement in this year’s Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival (MVAAFF) in Oak Bluffs, MA from August 1-10. Celebrating its 22nd year, this annual Oscar-qualifying event promotes diversity in the film industry for African American filmmakers.
This is the second year that the Library of Congress will have on-site representation at MVAAF. After attending in 2023, the Library’s Office of Communications was recognized by the National Association of Government Communications for our excellence in conveying the Library’s mission and a commitment to African American cinema through activations, programming and participation at MVAAFF. This year, the Library will be hosting two separate events—a fireside chat and a workshop—as part of the Festival’s tent activations.
On Sunday, August 4, there will be a fireside chat between artist Maya Freelon and ethnomusicologist Dr. Allie Martin, Connecting Communities Digital Initiative (CCDI) Artists/Scholars in Residence, part of our “Of the People” program. In “Preserving OUR History Through Art & Sound-Part 1,” Freelon and Martin will highlight the importance of using the Library’s collections to create their projects and discuss the importance of preserving film and art.
Moderated by the Library’s own Dr. Kimber Thomas, this conversation regarding film, art preservation and Library resources will occur from 1-3 p.m.
“Preserving OUR History Through Art & Sound-Part 2” will take place on Monday, August 5 from 1-3 p.m. with Freelon and Martin leading an interactive art and sound workshop. Through this session, one can experience how Freelon’s mixed-media artworks and Martin’s soundscape compositions center Black life and honor Black communities.
Both events are located in the Vineyard Lounge Tent outside the Martha’s Vineyard Performing Arts Center (MVPAC) and are free and open to the public.
The Library of Congress encourages filmmakers, students, educators, and film enthusiasts to attend the MVAAFF and participate in these sessions. Whether you’re interested in exploring the Library’s collections, learning about film preservation, or connecting with industry professionals, this festival offers a unique opportunity to engage with African American cinema.
For more on the Of the People program, subscribe to the Of the People blog!