A LETTER FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Dear Patrons,
Thank you so much for attending this year’s festival and for supporting Utah’s mountain community. Over the past six years, we have screened hundreds of powerful films from around the globe. The films we screen and the stories we share expand perspectives and inspire change. Let’s face it; 2020 has been a challenging year. While many events have tested our resolve, there is much to be thankful for, and to give us hope for the future. So rather than echoing all of the challenges WMA has faced in 2020, I want to take this opportunity to share with you how we have harnessed the challenges to expand our own perspective and inspire change within Wasatch Mountain Arts.
Due to social distancing, we have had to reevaluate how we build relationships with filmmakers, partners, and patrons. While there have had bumps along the way with going virtual, the switch has enabled us to connect with more filmmakers than ever on a personal level. Only a few weeks ago I had the pleasure of meeting with Reed Rickert (Director of The Flip) and Rafael Duarte (Director of Beyond Dreams) in one day. Reed is based out of Mexico City, and Rafael is based out of Rio de Janeiro. In pre-COVID times we likely would not have set up virtual interviews, but I’m so thankful for the opportunity to have connected with them. Connecting with our global audience will become a high priority as we look to the future.
Going virtual has also enabled us to expand our audience. In the past, only 10% of festival attendees have joined us from outside of Utah. This year people from all over the world are tuning in to be part of the festival.
What excites me the most is the bright future and opportunities that we have ahead of us. We’re just getting started and WMFF 2020 is only the beginning. Thank you again for joining us as we celebrate adventure and our own mountain culture with films directed by people from a wide range of cultural backgrounds. Enjoy!
Thank you,
Stuart Derman
Co-Founder & Executive Director
Wasatch Mountain Arts