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| A frame from a digitised VHS copy I made of Man Ray's "Le Retour à la raison" (1923) |
The time has come for a manifesto because, while we continually live in interesting times, I have realised now is the time for me to codify the lessons I have learned. This is a first draft of my creative viewpoint, not just rules to follow. I shall return to this.
FIRST VIDEO MANIFESTO
“Video”: Latin, “I see”
This world is man-made. There is nothing else to blame.
This world is created with images, and the more of them you take in, the better.
This world is described by images. Add to them.
This world is remade using images. This habitually ties everything into politics.
This world is yours, not also yours.
This world excites you, so keep making notes.
You have a duty to report that excitement, but impartiality does not mandate distance.
Create early, edit always, no matter the medium.
Crystallise your message in the opening moment. Let yourself and your audience know you are in the right place.
Make yourself fully understood, by all possible methods.
Make it concise, or keep it short.
Put your name on it. Your insight has value.
LJS, 01/11/2025