Curated Creative
Collaboration, Coaching & Contemplation
A pair of podcast interviews from two different documentary filmmakers.
Akinola Davies Jr. is a BAFTA-nominated, Sundance-winning, multi-disciplinary rising star in the world of film, with work spanning short films, music, and fashion. He sat down for an interview at the Architectural Association School of Architecture to discuss the storytelling aspect of his work. Much of the focus is on his approach to collaboration, which is a science in creativity all on its own. He frequently mentions the word "trust," which is arguably the most important aspect of working jointly with others in creative endeavors. If your work requires collaboration with clients or other artists, this is a great listen.
Podcast Interview
For another perspective, we shift from a rising star to an established icon: documentary filmmaker Ken Burns. In this interview, Ken discusses several key points in his creative process of storytelling. Noteworthy topics include the importance of creating contemplative or meditative time, finding your own voice or iterative process, and the necessity of perseverance.
Perhaps the most interesting common thread between these two interviews is their use of sports references, as both describe their roles as coaches or team captains in their collaborative spaces.
I hope these interviews provide some helpful ideas to contribute to your own creative practice.