Rendering Visions World Premier
FORT MCMURRAY, AB. – A locally produced documentary celebrating Fort McMurray’s vibrant arts community is set to make its world premiere next month.
Rendering Visions will debut on November 6 at 7:30 p.m. at the Suncor Energy Centre for the Performing Arts. The film explores how artists transform their original works through digital rendering, blending traditional and modern mediums to tell stories of creativity and resilience.
Director Ashley Laurenson said the film “asks the question, what do artists need in Fort McMurray?” and features 12 artists from a range of disciplines sharing “what it means to be an artist in Wood Buffalo, their history and what they need to grow in their careers.”
The production also includes interviews with Arts Council Wood Buffalo about the Arts INC project and with local arts champions who reflect on the history and evolution of the region’s creative community.
Laurenson said the team’s connection to the community runs deep. “A couple of our team members used to work in the building when they were teenagers, back when it was McCinema 6,” she said. “We were really interested in the idea that a place that was once used to showcase stories would become a space to create new stories and build community.”
With funding from TELUS STORYHIVE, the Alberta Foundation for the Arts, and the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo’s Arts, Culture and Heritage grant, the filmmakers commissioned and licensed 22 local works, including dance, paintings, sculptures, photography and poetry, that were rendered into the film using visual effects. Music from local musicians is also featured.
Laurenson said it was important for the team to show that “Fort McMurray isn’t just the home of the oil and gas industry, but also a place for a growing arts community.” She added the premiere was planned locally “to showcase to all of those involved the importance of art in our region, and what the future of our community could be with more investment into the arts sector.”
Guests attending the premiere will also be able to view the original artwork featured in the film, displayed in the SECPA atrium. Before the screening, a pre-show Artist Showcase Market will highlight local talent, with tables available for $25, including admission to the film.
A trailer for Rendering Visions is now available on Mc’Guphynn Media’s YouTube page. Artists involved in the project have priority registration until October 17, and general tickets are available through Eventbrite.
Organizers say the premiere will be a celebration of community, imagination and the evolving ways art connects people across Fort McMurray.
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