Black Women Behind the Lens: Representation in Film

Please note: This event takes place at Independent Picture House located at 4237 Raleigh Street, Charlotte, NC 28213.

In partnership with Independent Picture House, join us as we highlight the contributions of Black women filmmakers throughout history. Featuring curator and writer Taylor Bythewood-Porter, this collective analysis includes a panel discussion of influential Black women film artists, and contemporary artists featured in the American Gurl exhibition, such as Savannah Leaf and Lorna Simpson. We explore themes of decentering the gaze, storytelling, and self-reflection through the lens of Black women in film.

Participants dive into clips and stills from various projects, engaging in a thought-provoking exploration of how Black women artists shape narratives in photography, cinematography, and direction. The discussion celebrates the innovative contributions of these filmmakers who have profoundly impacted the industry.

This event includes a reception with complimentary wine and refreshments, a panel discussion, and a talkback, allowing the audience to engage directly with the content and share their reflections. In honor of Women’s History Month, the program invites attendees to collectively celebrate and analyze the artistry and mastery of Black women in film.

In June of 2022, The Charlotte Film Society expanded its vision and opened The Independent Picture House. The community arthouse cinema operates 365 days out of the year, and is dedicated to screening independent, foreign, and arthouse film. The Independent Picture House is a non-profit community cinema that screens diverse, foreign, arthouse & independent film focused on educating, engaging, and enabling individuals through the powerful medium of film. Learn more about Independent Picture House at independentpicturehouse.org.