We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Dill Undervvood a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Dill, appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

The most meaningful project I have ever worked on was a short film called “THE BELLMAN.” It was the exact artistic vision behind a film I was looking for. Filmed on 16mm film, the aesthetic of locations, presentation of dialogue, coloring, lighting, etc. The perfect film. And the most meaningful part about it was the music it inspired in me. It really opened many doors for my artistic vision, and gave me avenues to venture down, from instruments, sounds, and even new ways to produce the music. It was everything I asked for. The places the film took me too also. Winning awards in American film festivals, but even taking my music across seas to Paris France where I also won an award. One of the greatest feelings.

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.

Getting into the industry was kind of random. In the winter of 2016, I was introduced to a 2015 film called “The VVitch.” When the credits rolled, I sat up in my bed and said to myself, “THAT’S IT!!! I want to make music for films.” I knew no one, and had no idea where to start, but a wild idea/gut feeling to reach out to a friend from high school, who I knew would probably know someone in the film world proved valid, and in reaching out, I landed my first film job. The premier of the film then led me to meet my good friend Steven Shade, who I have now worked exclusively with for the past 8 years.
I have many talents as a creative, but as far as the ones I offer, I mainly only offer music. I am also a visual artist who works in the charcoal medium, but that is a service I am a bit more selfish with, and don’t offer to anyone anymore. Drawing is more therapeutic to me. I’ve never enjoyed doing commission drawings, so I no longer offer them. Maybe if it’s a project I know I could get behind on a personal level, I’ll consider it, but other than that, I do not offer it.
I guess the main purpose of my role, and the biggest problem my role solves is adding atmosphere to the project I’m working on. My role is a very important one, and arguably one of the most important roles. I think what sets me apart from others is my fluidity in the language of music, and human emotions, and how they dance and sing together. Having that understanding of the chemistry of both really makes film the perfect platform for my craft. I think having that understanding is what I am truly most proud of.

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

I think the question should be “What can the artists do to give society an opportunity to support and build the creative ecosystem?” I’ve come across so many groups or clubs that don’t involve society. Don’t invite them, or don’t tell them about what it is we do. I think society need to be informed more. And that’s on the artists.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding part of being an artist is I get to create things I want to see/hear in the world. And the joy I feel from the things I’ve made, and that I get to share it with others.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://dillundervvood.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dillundervvood
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dillundervvood
• Twitter: https://x.com/dillundervvood
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@dillundervvood

Image Credits

Jordan Savage