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I drove, this first weekend of spring, to Fredericton, New Brunswick to screen the 10th edition of Prairie Tales. The NB film Coop, who was hosting the presentation, has been a supporter of the project for some time. The cultural centre, where the Coop has its offices, was very busy as there were a number of others events happening in the building concurrently. This abundance of activities probably contributed to a smaller turnout. Nevertheless one member of the audience drove over two hours to see the works! And that is saying a lot as the highways were invaded by hordes of deer!
One of the things I love about Prairie Tales is its diversity of genre and approach but what really strikes me, this year as in previous years, is the creative energy and artistic ability that can be found in Alberta. By viewing the program one can feel that there is a vigorous discourse that is being nurtured. The screening prompted discussions about film, video, networking, and the media arts across Canada.
In the darkness of the Doodles Café, where the screening took place, I felt something that I never felt before. As I was looking at the program, I was seeing markers; landscapes, back alleys of Calgary and Edmonton, and in this familiarity of surroundings, I felt homesick! Alberta, and more specifically Calgary, has been my home, on and off, for over 15 years. I have recently relocated to Moncton, New Brunswick, my other home. I am very proud to have been part of this year’s selection but I also feel privileged to have been able to contribute to the artistic vitality of the amazing place that is Alberta!
March 30, 2009 -Moncton NB
Prairie Tales 10
The latest collection of short film and video works by Alberta media artists.
Presented by Edmonton’s Metro Cinema Society.
