We recently connected with Patricia Ferguson and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Patricia, thanks for joining us today. Are you happy as a creative professional? Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to work for someone else?

I’m a creative and very happy that I am. And no, I never wonder what it’s like to have a regular job. There is enough context around me in my everyday life to know what to expect— there are no surprises. The creative journey is so deeply ingrained in who I am. As a Strategic Visionary and Creative Concept Artist, I thrive on embracing the visionary me as a creative, with the freedom to innovate, explore and experiment seamlessly integrating my skills across various domains—from festivals to public policy, and everything in between.

This ability to adapt and transform is what makes life so exciting for me. In the dynamic world of the creative industry, every project presents a new opportunity to explore, innovate, and connect. I thrive on the interplay of ideas, drawing inspiration from festivals, community engagement, and the nuances of policy-making. Each aspect informs the other, allowing me to devise strategies that not only elevate artistic expression but also create meaningful impact.

For example, recently I had the pleasure of hosting filmmakers from my small rural distressed region. The filmmakers are hardworking but the creative culture is lacking. Kids grow up here with few opportunities for artistic expression and exposure to the arts; pursuing a career in the arts feels distant and basically foreign. While the region is often overlooked due to its economic challenges, it is a treasure trove of diverse environments that range from serene rivers and expansive wetlands to picturesque farmland. Each location offering a variety of themes making it an ideal setting for a wide array of films.

Whether it’s a drama set against a beautiful sunset over the Albemarle Sound or a thrilling adventure kayaking or canoeing down the Cashie River, the landscapes will elevate any storyline. I see it as a rising destination for filmmakers— a cinematic jewel waiting to be discovered. In other words, with fewer competing productions, filmmakers can find unique locations that haven’t been featured in mainstream cinema.

My observation is this, creativity has a remarkable way of manifesting in the most unexpected places, and that the creative arts, knows no boundaries. Filmmakers in economically distressed regions demonstrate remarkable resilience and creativity in the face of adversity. Their ability to craft compelling narratives with limited resources is a testament to human ingenuity. They remind us to look beyond conventional sources of artistic expression and recognize its resilience and residence across the human landscape of race, ethnicity and geography.

My ability to thrive is simple. Whether I’m designing an immersive experience for a film festival, collaborating with artists to push boundaries, or advocating for policies that support the arts, I embrace the challenge with enthusiasm. My strategic mindset enables me to see the bigger picture, ensuring that each initiative aligns with broader goals while still capturing the essence of creativity, constantly evolving and responding to new challenges.

Patricia, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am the mother of two sons in the industry who have taught me so much over the past 15 years… thank you Joshua and Daniel, it is because of the two of you that I am Founder and President of Equity Films, located in a rural economically distressed region of Northeastern NC, with a BOLD VISION of creating film ecosystems in rural, underrepresented, economically distressed regions. My journey began at the Freedom Theatre in Philadelphia, PA many years ago, as a young, eager teenage girl. It is where I discovered my love for storytelling and the creative arts. And, my journey continued because of my two sons, Joshua and Daniel Ferguson.

With over 30 years of strategic work, integrating my skills across various domains—from festivals to public policy, and everything in between, most recently, I decided to hone my skills in the industry as a Strategic Visionary and Creative Concept Artist for Filmmakers.

My reentry into the industry over the past few years, was driven by a desire to help independent filmmakers in rural, unrepresented and economically distressed regions, who lack access to investors, distributors and resources. They refueled my commitment to the creative arts in “out of the way” places.

As a Strategic Visionary and Creative Concept Artist, I specialize in building networks that offer a range of services to independent filmmakers in rural economically distressed areas such as:
Creative Concept Development – Vision Articulation, Strategic Planning- Project Roadmapping, Collaboration and Networking -Partnership Development, Post Production Input, Workshops and Training.

My work focuses on solving several key problems for my filmmakers: securing investors, finding distributors and accessing resources.

I take great pride in our partnership, as I help filmmakers navigate the complexities and challenges of independent filmmaking. Together we work to find solutions that empower them to overcome obstacles and build partnerships that successfully bring their creative visions to life.

The power of partnership can be nothing short of extraordinary as seen in our collaboration with a celebrated producer who visited our rural community. Her presence was noteworthy, bringing with it a wealth of experience and insight; it marked a pivotal moment for creatives.

During the workshop, she engaged with filmmakers through lively discussions and practical exercises, breaking down the essential elements of an effective pitch. The room was filled with a mix of excitement and nervous anticipation as participants learned how to present their projects in a way that captivated potential investors and collaborators. Filmmakers left feeling empowered and invigorated, armed with new skills and a sense of camaraderie as they connected with one another. This newfound confidence was evident as they began to collaborate on projects and share their experiences, creating a supportive network that extended beyond the workshop.

What truly set this partnership apart was her commitment to continue mentoring these filmmakers after the master class had concluded. She didn’t have to offer her time; her willingness to do so spoke volumes about her dedication to nurturing emerging talent. Over the following year, she provided invaluable feedback on their scripts, guiding them through the revisions and helping them refine their storytelling techniques. Her mentorship included zoom check-ins, where she offered insights and encouragement, fostering a sense of accountability and growth.

Her involvement has made a significant difference in their journeys. Many of the filmmakers have gone on to develop their projects further, some even securing funding and opportunities to showcase their work at film festivals and commercial movie theaters.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

Creativity is a fundamental aspect of the human experience, and it thrives in the most unexpected places regardless of economic circumstances. Just because individuals come from economically distressed areas does not diminish their creativity or potential. Many artists draw inspiration from their lived experiences.

My goal/mission driving my creative journey is to help build film ecosystems in rural, underrepresented, economically distressed regions.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Funding Support for Independent Filmmakers:
A balancing act is essential. Film offices across the nation prioritize attracting big-box filmmakers due to the economic benefits, which is understandable however, neglecting independent filmmakers is not cool and there must be a call for change. Increasing public awareness of the value of independent filmmakers especially in rural low wealth spaces is imperative. The potential of increasing tourism and foot traffic to local businesses as well as film locations and the support small places can provide, is an incalculable benefit.

Investing in and Promoting their Work:
Investors and distributors are vital. They have the necessary funding and platforms that enable their stories to reach the masses.

Community Engagement and Leverage Technology
Providing digital access to online tools and resources can empower artists to promote their work and connect with audiences. This includes virtual workshops, online galleries, and social media marketing training. By embracing technology, artists can expand their reach.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.equity-films.org
• Instagram: equityfilms2023
• Facebook: Patricia Fergson/Equity Films
• Linkedin: Patricia Ferguson

Image Credits

Askdrferguson