Filmmaker Amanda Madden takes the lead as Artist Foundry Manager and relaunches Utah’s collaborative program – supporting the growing local film community.
Salt Lake City, UT, September 26, 2023 – Utah Film Center announced today that Amanda Madden has been named Manager of the nonprofit’s Artist Foundry – a supportive structure that provides local filmmakers and content creators with essential tools, co-working spaces, professional development classes, and community support and networking opportunities. Amanda’s 15-year career in the film industry has allowed them to acquire extensive knowledge in storytelling and filmmaking, as well as the organizational and technical skill sets necessary for success in the film industry. With Amanda’s expertise, Utah Film Center is committed to nurturing local talent and fostering the growth of the film community.
As an established figure in the film industry, Amanda has worked extensively as an editor, director, educator, and filmmaker. Their diverse portfolio includes collaborations with notable clients such as MTV, Refinery29, Nickelodeon, Food Network, Condé Nast, and NBC Universal, and they have worked on numerous projects that include short narratives, documentaries, experimental films, and the feature documentary, “Roleplay.”
Raised in Utah, Amanda received their BA in Film from Montana State University and their MFA in Socially Engaged Nonfiction Media from Hunter College in New York City, New York. Amanda’s interest in filmmaking began early on and they found support in local organizations that cultivated their skills, providing opportunities for exploration and connection to their creative expression.
“Amanda’s vast experience and purposeful direction make them the ideal choice to lead the Artist Foundry,” said Mariah Mellus, Executive Director of Utah Film Center. “Their dedication to supporting filmmakers at every stage of their career aligns perfectly with our vision for the Artist Foundry.”
While the Artist Foundry has been instrumental in providing artist support services over the past several years, relaunching the program offers a focused intent in 2023 and 2024 and is now poised to expand its offerings even further. The program will actively reconnect with the local film community, launch a comprehensive Business of Filmmaking workshop series in the fall, continue to sponsor events with partner organizations, and create formal and informal opportunities for local filmmakers to connect.
“The Artist Foundry’s future goals are centered around empowering and nurturing Utah’s talented filmmaking community,” said Amanda Madden. “I’m excited to be part of this journey and look forward to building a strong community of local filmmakers, creators, and artists.”
Amanda Madden’s appointment and the Utah Film Center’s commitment to local filmmakers signal an exciting new chapter in the state’s cinematic landscape. With Amanda leading, the Artist Foundry is eager to become a vital resource for emerging and established filmmakers.
About the Artist Foundry:
The Artist Foundry is a professional co-working space focused on providing space, community, and resources for Utah filmmakers and content creators. A program of Utah Film Center, the Artist Foundry is hosted within their offices at 50 West Broadway in downtown Salt Lake City. The location features convenient access, downtown amenities, and cool downtown views from the 11th floor of the Broadway Media Building. Learn more at utahartistfoundry.org.
Associate Membership is $120 Annually and includes: Co-working space for filmmakers, Internet access, Networking, Workshop discounts, and information about local resources and opportunities.
Pro Membership is $60 monthly and includes: Co-working space for filmmakers, Internet access, Conference room priority booking, networking, access to editing bays and discount suites, discounts on rentals, information about local resources and opportunities, and members in good standing receive a reduced rate of 4% for fiscal administration fees.
###
About Utah Film Center
Utah Film Center connects people, stories, and ideas through film, artist support, and media arts education. By amplifying diverse perspectives in Utah through the medium of film, they help set the scene for a richer understanding of our neighbors, fellow human beings, and the world around us. With festivals like Damn These Heels and other year-round screening programs, Utah Film Center provides access to voices and stories that would otherwise be inaccessible for Utah audiences. Utah Film Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter and visit more utahfilmcenter.org for more information.
