5 Questions With New AFS Artist-Services Manager Iliana Sosa
The Austin Film Society has a new Artist Services Manager, Iliana Sosa. Artist Services is a particularly important part of what we do here at AFS every day, encompassing the AFS Grant, Works-In-Progress, Fiscal Sponsorships, Artist Development and much more.
We’re happy to welcome Iliana, and we know that many of you will be working with her on a regular basis moving forward. Here’s a brief introduction to Iliana and a little more information about the programs she administers.
1. Tell us about your background and your career before coming to AFS.
I went to film school at UCLA and received my MFA in film production. I have produced and directed several shorts and features before joining AFS and most recently worked as an associate producer for Relativity Television. I have also worked as a video producer for non-profits, including Brave New Foundation.
2. What interests you about artist support programs?
I am most interested in having the opportunity to meet different artists and hear how they got interested in making films. I am also interested in seeing how I can help filmmakers accomplish their goals. I have certainly been there when I first started and would have liked to have had a support system to reach out to. I hope to be that support system for filmmakers.
3. What were your career highlights before joining AFS?
One of my career highlights was when my MFA thesis short, Child of the Desert, won Best Short Film at the 2012 USA Film Festival–which in turn made it eligible to compete in the short film Oscar competition. I also had the opportunity to work with Dale Dickey, who is the lead in the film. She was truly an amazing actor to work with. My other career highlight was when I had the opportunity to work with Josefina Lopez (writer of Real Women Have Curves) and direct a play she wrote into a feature called Detained in the Desert.
4. What’s the most exciting thing about this move – both geographically and career-wise?
I am excited to be back in my home state. I grew up in El Paso, Texas. Texas is home. Career wise, I am excited to have the opportunity to support a diverse group of filmmakers and be part of the supportive environment at AFS. I am also really excited to be a part of the growing film community in Austin.
5. How can filmmakers find out which AFS programs may be of assistance to them?
Filmmakers can check out the AFS website and check out the tab labeled Artist Services. An important upcoming deadline is the AFS grant which is due June 2. They are also welcome to email me at iliana (at)austinfilm.org. We can provide assistance with questions on the Works in Progress programs and the fiscal sponsorship program we offer.
