Support TT The Artist's Travel Fund to SXSW 2025
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My name is TEDRA, most notable as TT The Artist. I am an independent, self-taught film director dedicated to delivering bold and vibrant visual storytelling. My work is deeply influenced by my passion for Black cinema and a commitment to amplifying the representation of women, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ communities. As an independent filmmaker, I often face challenges in securing resources and financing, leading me to self-fund my productions.
This year, I am thrilled to introduce my latest film project, DENIM—a fantastical docu-series that celebrates the voices of LGBTQIA+ creatives. DENIM is set to make its world premiere at the prestigious SXSW Film & TV Festival in March 2025 in Austin, Texas. This festival offers a unique platform for independent directors like myself to showcase our work and connect with industry experts, opening doors to elevate my career and secure support for future projects.
However, attending such a significant event comes with substantial expenses, including airfare, hotel accommodations, daily necessities like transportation and meals, and provisions for the crew accompanying me to document this monumental moment. To ensure DENIM receives the exposure it deserves and to share the inspiring stories of my key talent with the world, I am seeking your generous support to help with these costs.
At a time when LGBTQIA+ and civil rights are under threat in a post U.S. election climate, DENIM becomes a vital act of resistance and visibility.DENIM also addresses a critical need in the broader cultural conversation around inclusivity and equality in Hollywood. By elevating the voices of LGBTQIA+ creatives, the series fosters dialogue, and encourages empathy. At this pivotal moment, DENIM is not just storytelling; it is a call to action to recognize, uplift, and protect the richness and resilience of queer lives.
By contributing to this campaign, you become an important part of a movement that champions diversity, creativity, and authentic storytelling. In addition to this campaign, your contributions will be used towards:
- Film Festival Submission Fees: Covering the costs associated with submitting DENIM to various film festivals, which can range from $10 to $120 per submission. While some festivals offer fee waivers, many do not, making this a significant expense.
- Travel Expenses: Funding airfare to attend festivals where DENIM is showcased, facilitating networking opportunities and audience engagement. 2 Roundtrip flights $1500
- Accommodation: Providing Hotel lodging March 7- March 13 2025 Total 6 Days ($3500) during festival dates to ensure proximity to events and panels, enhancing the ability to participate fully in festival activities.
- Daily Expenses: Covering daily costs such as local transportation (e.g., rideshares, public transit) and meals during festival attendance. ($1,000)
- Crew Support: Assisting with expenses for key crew members accompanying me to document the festival journey, capturing behind-the-scenes moments and interviews that will be invaluable for promotional materials and future projects. ($1000)
Together, we can bring DENIM to a global audience and continue to uplift underrepresented voices in cinema!
THANK YOU for believing in the power of independent film and for supporting this journey.
If you would like to connect and offer more direct support you can email [email redacted] cc [email redacted]
Organizer
Tedra Wilson
Organizer
New York, NY