Sustainability Looks Like…You
by Kelly Gallagher
A documentary art film reflecting the thoughts and ideas of people living in the Pioneer Valley interwoven with images of the beautiful life of the Pioneer Valley – from the Hilltowns to the cities, from farm to shops to schools. The wisdom lies within each of us – we know what sustainability looks like.
Sustainability looks like us…it is in our hands – let us engage the population in this discussion. It is my experience as a filmmaker that people possess deep wisdom and insight and, when given the opportunity, will articulate their visions and experience with incredible beauty. This film will incorporate group discussions and individual reflections, tapping into the resources of young and old alike. When discourse and honest reflection are allowed to happen, beautiful thoughts and profound ideas emerge. Keeping in mind the purpose of this contest, “to stimulate thought and action on sustainability in the Pioneer Valley,” this project will consist of a film of people in the Valley reflecting on the idea of sustainability, their part in it and their commitment to attaining it motivated by their love of this place and its beauty. Images of the beauty of this place will be interwoven with music and voices to offer a piece that will engage and empower the people to seek and establish sustainability.
We will look for people and places where sustainability is already happening as well as encouraging it where it is just an idea. From fairs to youth groups to Rotary clubs, the questions will be posed – and inevitably profound thoughts will emerge. Through humor and sincerity the people of the Valley will speak – and together we will learn what sustainability can be.
The final piece will be a film that can be distributed to community access stations as well as a series of Public Service Announcements that can be used by PVSN to fulfill the purpose of the project, “to stimulate thought and action on sustainability in the Pioneer Valley.” Also, a study guide will be created to accompany the film to be distributed to discussion groups, churches, and organizations.
The piece is meant to communicate that sustainability lies in our hands, and that we have the power and the resources to attain it. By allowing people to share ideas, ask questions, make commitments, they are given a stake in the outcome. Wherever the project goes, people will be asked to participate, to learn, engage and become a part of the solution.
To view cut of an 8 minute short filmed in South Sudan go to www.shelteredthefilm.com/ceasweb. Please allow 35 minutes to download.