We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Alyssa Barreda. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Alyssa below.
Hi Alyssa, thanks for joining us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.
Ever since I was a child, I knew I wanted to be in the entertainment and creative fields. I started dancing ballet, folklorico, and hip-hop from ages five to thirteen, which ingrained in me a deep appreciation for artistic expression. In middle school, I attended drama classes and realized my passion for the behind-the-scenes aspects of putting together a show. I often made short videos and edited them with my friends, not knowing that this would later become my craft.
In high school, I took my first official film course, solidifying my determination to become a filmmaker! I attended Pima Community College, where I continued to take film courses in directing and video editing. My journey took a significant leap when I joined a Film and TV summer program at UCLA, where I had the opportunity to produce two short films. I furthered my education at Arizona State University, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Film and Media Production with an emphasis in screenwriting and directing.
Reflecting on my journey, I believe that starting to create films at an even earlier age could have accelerated my learning process. Filmmaking is an art that requires time and experience to master, and beginning earlier would have provided me with more opportunities to refine my skills. However, I also recognize that the process of making films takes lots of time, and rushing it could compromise the quality of the work.
The most essential skills in my journey have been storytelling true stories from my life, visual composition, and collaboration. Storytelling is at the heart of filmmaking, and understanding how to craft compelling narratives is crucial. Visual composition allows me to convey emotions and themes effectively through imagery for the audience. Collaboration is vital because filmmaking is a team effort, requiring communication and coordination among all departments.
One significant obstacle was the limited access to film studios and industry resources in my hometown of Tucson, Arizona. The film community there is small and opportunities for hands-on experience were scarce. Moving to Phoenix, Arizona, provided a slightly larger film community, but it still presented challenges in finding diverse opportunities. Despite these limitations, I sought out programs and courses that allowed me to gain valuable experience and continue growing as a filmmaker.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Hello! My name is Alyssa Lynae Barreda, and I am an independent Mexican-American filmmaker and artist based in Arizona. My journey into the world of filmmaking began at a young age. When I was younger I used to participate in dancing, acting, and all forms of arts and crafts. This early exposure to the arts fostered my love for creative expression. My passion for filmmaking was ignited in middle school when I joined the drama club and discovered a fascination for the behind-the-scenes aspects of production.
I pursued this passion through formal education and practice, starting with film courses in high school and continuing at Pima Community College, where I focused on directing and video editing. My dedication led me to participate in the Film and TV Summer Institute program at UCLA, where I produced two short films. I then graduated summa cum laude with a B.A. in Film and Media Production with a concentration in Directing from the Sidney Poitier New American Film School at Arizona State University. Additionally, I minored in Fashion, which has greatly influenced my work and love for wardrobe and creative shoot styling.
In 2022, I founded Lynae Productions LLC, a film and digital media production company. At Lynae Productions, I specialize in creating diverse and original artistic mediums by collaborating with independent artists of all kinds. My expertise spans multiple departments of film production, including screenwriting, directing, producing, cinematography, editing, costume design, and hair and makeup design. I always include people of different backgrounds and women on my productions! This multidisciplinary approach allows me to oversee projects, ensuring a cohesive and high-quality final product.
What sets me apart is my ability to tell stories that resonate with diverse audiences and push the boundaries of conventional filmmaking. Coming from a low-income neighborhood and under-resourced schooling, I am driven to create films that highlight and celebrate my Chicano culture. I believe my culture is often underappreciated and looked down upon, and I want to change that narrative through my work and break cycles. I want to influence younger people that they can become successful in filmmaking no matter what their background is.
One of the challenges I’ve faced is the limited access to film studios and industry resources in my hometown of Tucson, Arizona. However, this has driven me to seek out opportunities and collaborations in Phoenix, Arizona, which led me to greater opportunities in Los Angeles. In September 2023, I was recognized for my filmmaking by the Arizona Latino Arts and Cultural center in Arizona. They have recommended and nominated me to present my work at the Chicano Hollywood Elevate conference. I got to attend this event and represent Arizona filmmakers and share one of my shorts with a very large and talented audience.
For potential clients, followers, and supporters, I want you to know that my work is driven by passion, creativity, community and a commitment to my craft. I am always open to new collaborations and eager to explore innovative ways to tell stories. Whether through film, digital media, or art, I strive to create work that leaves a lasting impact.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about me and my journey. I look forward to sharing my creative stories with you!
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative is the ability to bring stories to life and connect with people on a personal level. There is something fulfilling and satisfying about transforming an idea into a visual and emotional experience that resonates with audiences. It’s about creating something that can evoke emotions, provoke thoughts, and inspire change!
Seeing my work impact others, especially when it highlights and celebrates Chicano culture, is deeply gratifying. It’s rewarding to know that my films can challenge stereotypes, strengthen an understanding, and bring underappreciated narratives to the forefront. Additionally, collaborating with other passionate artists and seeing our collective vision come to life is an amazing experience. Being able to continuously learn, grow, and push the boundaries of my craft is what truly makes this journey worthwhile.
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
One aspect that non-creatives might struggle to understand about my journey as a creative is the amount of dedication, determination and time that required to succeed in this field. Filmmaking and creative arts are often perceived as glamorous and effortless from the outside, but the reality involves countless hours of hard work and facing numerous challenges.
Creatives often deal with uncertainties, rejections, and financial instability, especially in the early stages of their careers. I still struggle with some of those things as I am not a full-time filmmaker yet! It’s a path that demands passion and a drive to overcome obstacles, such as limited resources and access to opportunities.
Moreover, the creative process itself can be incredibly demanding. It requires vulnerability, as we pour our emotions and personal experiences into our work. This vulnerability can be both a source of strength and a challenge, as it involves exposing a part of ourselves to the world and risking criticism or misunderstanding.
As a Mexican-American woman in a male-dominated field, the challenges are even more pronounced. The film industry has historically been dominated by men, and breaking through as a woman, especially a woman of color, requires additional layers of power and perseverance. There are often biases and stereotypes to contend with, which can make it harder to have your voice heard and your work recognized.
Another aspect that might be hard to grasp is the built-in motivation that drives creatives. Unlike many conventional careers, success in the creative field isn’t always measured by financial gain or job security. Instead, it’s often about the impact of our work, the stories we tell, and the connections we make with our audience. For me, creating films that celebrate and highlight Chicano culture is a mission that goes beyond personal success; it’s about contributing to a larger cultural narrative and inspiring future generations.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lynaeproductions.com
- Instagram: Lynaeproductions
