Heather Murray
“My teaching philosophy is focused on the particular ways the fun and self-expression of filmmaking simultaneously encourages self-confidence and empathy in the filmmakers. When young filmmakers are invited into a space in which they can be vulnerable and take chances when using their imagination, their self-worth increases considerably. In order to make a film, however, they must collaborate with others. Working on a film crew means negotiating to make decisions and working toward a shared goal. In the process of making and watching films, they are also increasing their media literacy skills so that they are better prepared to interpret other forms of online programming and social media. I feel very lucky to support students in this process.”
Heather (she/her) is a videographer who worked as an art history college instructor, a museum director, and an art curator before shifting to video production and editing. She has created promotional videos for many Sonoma County nonprofits, businesses, and visual artists, and has collaborated with several local bands on music videos.
Colin Stice
Colin (he/him) grew up in Sonoma and Marin Counties. His career as a filmmaker began with the family’s VHS video camera and a tradition of going to the movies every weekend, followed by a discussion. Colin later received a BFA in Film Production from Chapman University with an emphasis in Directing. Since then, he has worked in advertising, narrative, documentary, branded content, and social media. His teaching philosophy is based around activity based storytelling, founded in a belief that through learning to make films we better understand the media we are surrounded by.