Austin Film Festival is proud to announce a lineup of WORLD PREMIERES at its 31st season. Today we’ll be looking at the documentary short God Make Me an Artist by Benjamin Smith.
God Make Me an Artist
(USA, 13 MIN)
Director: Benjamin Smith
Cast: Benjamin Watts, Lori Watts
God Make an Artist is a short documentary which chronicles the life and work of sculptor and Mississippi native, Benjamin Barnes Watts. The film, 3 years in production, follows Watts through every stage during the creation of an original commissioned statue for the national headquarters of Kappa Sigma in Charlottesville Virginia. The piece also serves to document Ben’s journey from childhood, his faith, and the highs and lows of his career. God Make Me an Artist is an intimate portrait of a celebrated sculptor and the spirit that drives him.
Screening Times
Keep reading for Benjamin’s full interview.
AFF Writer Bio: Tell us a bit about yourself.
I was born and raised in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. I attended college at the University of Southern Mississippi which is where I first learned to use a film camera. I have been making films since 2010 and made my first major premiere at AFF in 2015 with “Anthem”. Currently, I live in Southern Mississippi and run a private forensic science consulting firm. I am happily married to my beautiful wife Shoub and have 2 children and 3 step children.
AFF: What notable additions did your cast/crew add to the project?
The editing really helped make this film what it is. Without my editor Liz, I’m not sure we’d even be here.
AFF: What advice would you give new storytellers when it comes to finishing their screenplay or other projects?
Don’t stop filming!
AFF: Why did you choose Austin Film Festival for your world premiere?
Incredible festival in an amazing city.
AFF: How did you get your start in filmmaking?
Retrieving data. Wait a few seconds and try to cut or copy again.