Hello World
I’m reaching out with some exciting news and a request for your support. Our film, Bateau, has been awarded the South Carolina Indie Grants award from the South Carolina Film Commission! This project is inspired by our families’ legacies on James Island, Sol Legare Island and Wiggins, South Carolina—places where our ancestors worked and thrived for over six generations.
This film is our way of uplifting their stories—ones buried deep in the soil, hidden in the swamps, and carried along the waters of the Lowcountry. We’ve received some seed funding, but we need you to help us get this project done. Every amount and share helps us bring this story to life.
If you’re able to support, please click the link in my bio. Otherwise, please share this post! You’re a part of this story now.
ALSO, make sure you follow @bateau_film for updates on our process of making this film!
With love,
Joshua
Seeing photographer, Joshua Parks’ work at the Halsey Gallery was a gift to this Gullah Geechee girl. The exhibit, ‘Born In We’, beautifully connects African communities across the Atlantic from his love of family photos and storytelling. Joshua’s art also shines at the African American Museum in Charleston. Truly inspiring to witness his voice and vision.
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We’re almost there, y’all.
After months of dreaming, building, sketching, and carving out this story—Bateau is filming THIS FRIDAY!!
Set in a Gullah-Geechee fishing community during the Post-Civil War Reconstruction Era, Bateau is a short film rooted in memory, survival, and spiritual transformation. These boats were built by hand by @lowcountrymaritime . This set was raised with love. Every shot storyboarded with care.
We film this Friday, and we still need to raise $2,500 to bring it home. That helps us cover part of our safety boat rental, food, crew stipends, set dec, and transportation.
If you believe in Black Southern stories, in Gullah culture, in preserving the beauty and struggle of our people—please donate and share!
/donate
Cash App: $joshcp94
Venmo: @sfontenot
Clickable link in bio.
It’s getting real, people!! Our bateau (boat) builds are in progress, materials are being gathered for our cabin, and our crew is getting in formation. Bateau is moving full speed ahead—but we need your help to make it happen!
💰 Donate today via the link in our bio to support this Gullah-Geechee indie film. 🎭 And we’re still casting! Auditions are happening this Saturday—don’t miss your chance to be part of it.
Hit the link in bio to donate or sign up for auditions! Let’s bring Bateau to life! #bateaumovie #BateauFilm #SupportIndieFilm #GullahGeecheeCinema
Collage by @heyshaquille
Top left image from magazine ad (Beaded figure from mask series by Big Chief @qadamawi )
Who can build this? Where my builders and craftspeople at? This is the major set piece for our film and we need a replica of a Reconstruction Era cabin built as soon as possible.
It does not need insulation, electricity, or plumbing — just a wooden structure built as cheaply as possible. Please message me if you know anyone who can get the job done.
Location: Charleston, South Carolina
Yes we have a budget to build it and pay you.
This summer, we embrace creativity and community alongside @thegibbesmuseum and Metanoia Freedom School! 🎨📸 Through the lens of photography, young people are learning the art of storytelling, uncovering beauty and inspiration right in their own backyards, with the guidance of photographer and upcoming visiting artist, Joshua Parks @maroon_man .
This collaboration marks our second year partnering on this powerful and special art module with Freedom School scholars. Get ready for an extraordinary exhibition in North Charleston, showcasing their unique perspectives.
#GibbesMuseum #ArtIsTheReason #ArtEducation #CommunityEngagement #InspireThroughArt #Photography #BeHereLiveWell #ReleaseTheBrilliance #FreedomSchool
