Ontario-based Francophone Filmmakers Selected for National Film Board and OAC Mentorship Program

The National Film Board of Canada’s Ontario and West Studio (French Program) and the Ontario Arts Council are pleased to announce four Ontario-based francophone filmmakers selected to participate in the mentorship program: Lisa Fitzgibbons (Toronto), Karin Hazé (Toronto), Izabel Barsive (Ottawa) and Véronique Lehouck (Toronto).

As part of a long-term professional development process, each director will be mentored by an experienced professional in the fields of pre-production, production or post-production. They  will receive training in editing, story structure, script writing and with the HD camera.

"We are pleased to partner with the Ontario Arts Council in offering four Ontario filmmakers a new training opportunity that will contribute to their professional development. This mentorship initiative is part of the ongoing programs of NFB's Ontario and West Studio,” said Claudette Jaiko, Executive Producer, Studio Ontario et Ouest, French Program.

“We are delighted that this pilot project is able to strengthen OAC’s support of Franco-Ontarian filmmakers,” said John Brotman, OAC Executive Director.  “This initiative supports artistic development, a need that was identified in consultation with members of Ontario’s francophone arts community.”

The four Ontario-based francophone filmmakers will work with a Canadian mentor between now and November 30, 2006.

This initiative is made possible with financial support from The National Film Board and Canadian Heritage’s Interdepartmental Partnership with the Official-Language Communities (IPOLC).

About the NFB

Founded in 1939, the National Film Board of Canada has produced more than 11,000 films and other audiovisual works and won more than 4,500 awards - including 11 Oscars^®. As Canada's public film producer, the NFB produces and distributes distinctive, culturally diverse, challenging and relevant audiovisual works that provide Canada and the world with a unique Canadian perspective. Named one of the top documentary organizations in the world by realscreen magazine, the NFB is equally renowned for its auteur animation – with this year marking the 65th anniversary of cutting-edge animated filmmaking from the National Film Board. To purchase NFB releases or for more information, visit <www.nfb.ca> or call 1-800-267-7710. 

About OAC

The Ontario Arts Council is the province’s primary funding body for professional arts activity.  Since 1963, OAC has played a vital role in promoting and assisting the development of the arts and artists for the enjoyment and benefit of Ontarians.  In 2005-2006, OAC funded 1,268 individual artists and 836 organizations for a total of $35.7 million. These grants were of benefit to artists and arts organizations in 253 communities across Ontario. 

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