Lomography 400 35mm
It was my first time officially setting foot in Ireland and with an agenda: a) to attend the Galway Film Fleadh, b) finally visit friends, and c) have a great excuse to venture through fields and peruse a historic beautiful land for a summer holiday.
My trip was spurred by a recommendation to attend the Galway Film Fleadh Marketplace, and particularly the workshop hosted by Stowe Story Labs: Facing In •Facing Out.
I had only ever attended Stowe virtually and was eager to participate in one of the in-person labs.
During our short film's festival run we had been accepted to screen in Galway, but I was unable to attend the Fleadh due to a conflicting schedule. This opportunity felt perfect to experience both opportunities in-person.
The experience proved to be an enriching one.
Especially with participating in the "Facing In • Facing Out" workshop.
Writing is a lonely pursuit.
I always knew that this journey I've chosen would be hard, pursuing making my first feature film. I was feeling very frustrated and disappointed with the journey and had come up against writer's block in processing my story up until leaving the shores of the States.
This was my first time presenting my project internationally.
Having the chance to be in a room with other writers and focus on storytelling for a concentrated period of time was both potent and refreshing.
Making friends with fellow participants, we even ventured outside of Galway down the Wild Atlantic Way to see the Cliffs of Moher and passed through the ancient terrain of the Burren.
The Burren
Cows at the Cliffs of Moher
Dunguaire Castle
I'm not sure if it was the fresh salty air of the Atlantic or the green pastures dotted with sheep, but the change of scenery unlocked something for me.
The workshop is structured as the name implies. Perhaps it was that soul searching, reflecting, and meeting with folks from across the pond that empowered me to find a way back to my story.
Whatever it was, I'm grateful that I found encouragement and hope.
Exploring Dublin was another fascinating experience.
The streets are littered with dense history and felt bustling and modern compared to spending time on the west coast of Ireland.
Being able to spend time catching up with old friends in a different place and in different parts of our lives takes a lot of effort, but is worth maintaining friendships as we grow older.
All in all, it was grand.
