Film Project
Tsilhqot’in filmmaker Helen Haig-Brown and the Sech’iziqi Arts and Culture Society are developing a new, comprehensive approach to community-based filmmaking that seeks transformation not only for the Indigenous film sector, but also for her community. Centered in ceremony, healing, respect and reciprocity, our approach visions an ecosystem of vibrant arts and culture that supports Tsilhqot’in storytelling on screen. Moving beyond one-off productions, Helen and her team are creating a cycle where investment into arts and culture and regenerating ancestral knowledge feeds back into stronger films and stronger community.
To launch this 10 year project Sech’iziqi is prototyping the approach through the production of a short, narrative film about Tsilhqot’in medicine power in battle. In the lead-up, the team is busy creating and implementing the elements of the approach.
To launch this 10 year project Sech’iziqi is prototyping the approach through the production of a short, narrative film about Tsilhqot’in medicine power in battle. In the lead-up, the team is busy creating and implementing the elements of the approach.
In-Depth Cultural Research
Having a well researched storyline and story world for our productions means having our Tsilhqot’in cultural researchers, Knowledge Keepers and artists diving deep into our ancestral legacy of skills, artistry, language, knowledge and history. Our community-centred process allows our people to guide our stories and the details within them. In return, the creative process nourishes our community and cultural vibrancy.
Archival Research
Community members researching in institutional and family archives gather information about our history and traditional knowledge around our protocols, our basket weaving, hair, garment and tattoo design, hide making, and more. As they do this research they become our living librarians, continuing to keep our knowledge, and ensure it gets passed on to our artists and the next generation of Knowledge Keepers.
Creative Research
Our artists, Knowledge Keepers and skill holders are working in each of our focus areas including making tattoo designs, jewelry, garments, headdresses, weapons and baskets. Through deepening their knowledge with the support of the archival research team, and being given the time to experiment and create in their practice, they prepare to guide the wardrobe, prop, hair and make-up departments once in pre-production of the film.