The Project provides a unique opportunity to learn video production from professional artists and editors, using state-of-the-art high-definition cameras and the latest editing technology - all in a group environment that is queer positive, collaborative and supportive. Inside Out and Charles Street Video guide participants through a series of workshops in all aspects of video production - from script development to camera operation to editing and final post-production.
Inside Out will select eight individuals, 4 under the age of 25 and 4 over the age of 55, who identify as LGBTTI2QQ to participate in the project, each making a short video (7 to 10 minutes long) to be screened at the Inside Out Toronto LGBT Film and Video Festival in May.
In 1998, with the support of Charles Street Video, Inside Out initiated the Queer Youth Digital Video Project to provide opportunities for youth to learn video production in a supportive atmosphere. The Youth Project provided young artists with the hands-on access to the latest video technology - which historically has been financially out of reach for most youth. As well, the Project provided one-on-one mentorship and training with professional artists. Often post-secondary programs do not offer safe, supportive, queer and anti-oppressive environments for queer youth to express themselves and be creative. The QYDVP provided this important outlet. Queer youth under the age of 25 were mentored through the process of making their first videos - from storyboarding and shooting to post-production and editing. In 2009, Inside Out switched to working with high definition camera equipment and produced HD videos, providing young artists access to the latest technologies in video production.
In 2010, Inside Out presented a special edition of the Project called the Legacy Video Project as part of the 20th Anniversary Festival. Much like queer youth, elders also often lack access to professional educational mentorships, new technologies and opportunities to engage with their peers in a supportive, LGBT-positive environment. There is often a gap between the young and older generations. With the Legacy Video Project, our goal was to have youth and elders share their experiences and stories while working together.
After completion the works are screened at the Inside Out Toronto LGBT Film and Video Festival and many have gone on to play at festivals around the globe. Each year, the videos are compiled on DVD and distributed free to schools and community organizations. To date, 91 new filmmakers have created work through the Project.
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Additional Support from the AGO