We’re so excited to continue Wacom Creativity Camp 2024 with this free online photography workshop from Sky Bergman on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at 4:30pm PDT!
Wacom Creativity Camp is a series of free, live, online workshops from brilliant artists, creators, and educators throughout the month of July 2024! If you want to learn all about character design, illustration, comics, manga, art education, and more, check out the Creativity Camp homepage for all the details and resources. And make sure to sign up for Creativity Camp to get reminders about and to register for all of the workshops!
Sky Bergman is an accomplished, award-winning photographer and filmmaker. Lives Well Lived was her directorial debut. Her fine art work is included in permanent collections at museums around the world. She was the chair of the Art & Design department at Cal Poly State University in San Luis Obispo, CA (2007-2013) and is currently a Professor of Photography and Video. Check her out on Instagram.
Bergman will be presenting Storytelling through visual media: from photography to film as part of Creativity Camp on July 16th, 2024, at 4:30pm PDT, live on Zoom! Click here for more info about the workshop and to register.
In advance of her workshop, we spoke to Bergman about her background, interests, inspirations, what to look forward to during her workshop, and what she’s got going on in the future.
How did you first get into photography and filmmaking? Were you a creative kid?
As a kid, my primary creative outlet was music. I was what you might call a “band geek,” playing woodwind instruments like the flute, clarinet, and bassoon. I filled in wherever there was a need in the band, which gave me a well-rounded musical experience. My initial plan wasn’t in the arts; I was a business major when I went to college. It wasn’t until my last semester that I took a photography class just for fun.
That class was a turning point for me — I was completely captivated by the darkroom. I remember watching the image emerge in the developer, it was pure magic. So much so that I asked my photography teacher about how to pursue a career as a college professor in photography. That conversation set me on a new path, leading me away from business and into the world of visual arts.
How do you feel about the wealth of art instruction resources available online these days? Do you think going to art school is a necessity, or can beginning creatives teach themselves what they need to know?
The availability of art instruction resources online today is wonderful. These resources make it possible for anyone with an internet connection to learn and develop their skills. I did earn my MFA in Photography at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Those two years were invaluable because they provided me with the time and space to focus intensely on my artwork, surrounded by peers and mentors who pushed me to grow.
However, I don’t believe that attending art school is an absolute necessity for everyone. There are countless self-taught artists who have achieved great success. The key is dedication, practice, and a willingness to continually learn and evolve, whether through formal education or self-directed study.
You currently work as a filmmaker and educator. How did you decide what you wanted to pursue as a career? What do you love about it?
My career path has always been driven by my love for storytelling. Initially, I was drawn to telling stories through still photography, capturing moments and emotions in a single frame. Over time, my interest expanded to filmmaking, which allows me to combine my many passions: music, visual art, and narrative.
I have always loved doing puzzles from the time I was a toddler, and the process of creating a film — from developing the concept to the final edit — feels like assembling a puzzle where all the pieces eventually come together to form a complete picture. This multidisciplinary aspect is incredibly fulfilling, and I enjoy the opportunity to inspire and connect with audiences through my work.
How did you break into photography and filmmaking? What tips or advice to you have for students or beginners who might want to follow a similar path?
My journey into photography and filmmaking was driven by a deep passion and curiosity. I have a quote hanging on the bulletin board by my desk that says, “Your decisions should be based on your curiosity over fear.” I have lived that quote. After discovering my love for photography in college, I pursued it relentlessly, learning everything I could and seeking out opportunities to practice and improve.
For students or beginners looking to follow a similar path, my advice is to embrace your passion wholeheartedly. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make mistakes — they are an essential part of the learning process. Seek out mentors and communities that can provide support and feedback. Most importantly, stay curious and open-minded. Let your sense of wonder guide you and remember that every project is a chance to learn and grow.
How did you develop your own personal style? What are some of your biggest influences and/or inspirations?
Developing my personal style has been a journey of exploration and experimentation. I spent a lot of time simply getting out there and shooting, trying different techniques, and learning from each experience. My style has been heavily influenced by observing the world around me and listening to people’s stories. I find inspiration in everyday moments and the unique perspectives of others.
My biggest influences include other artists and filmmakers whose work resonates with me, as well as the diverse experiences and cultures I encounter in my travels and interactions. By continuously seeking out new experiences and reflecting on them through my art, I have been able to develop a style that feels authentic and true to my vision.
How do you stay motivated when you’re feeling stressed or uninspired?
Staying motivated during times of stress or lack of inspiration can be challenging, but I’ve developed a few strategies that help. When I feel stuck, I often look at other people’s work — whether it’s photography, film, or another form of art. Seeing the creativity and passion of others can be incredibly inspiring and can spark new ideas.
I also find that physical activities like walking, yoga, and even just spending time in nature can help clear my mind and rejuvenate my spirit. Reading books, whether fiction or non-fiction, can also provide new perspectives and ideas. Most importantly, I give myself permission to take breaks and allow time for rest. Creativity often needs space to flourish, and balancing work with relaxation helps maintain my motivation and inspiration.
What will your workshop at Creativity Camp cover? Who should attend and what can they hope to learn from your workshop?
My workshop at Creativity Camp is designed for anyone interested in learning more about photography and how to use it to share their vision and stories with the world. We will cover various aspects of photography, from technical skills like camera settings and composition to more conceptual topics like developing a personal style and storytelling through images and film. Whether you’re a beginner looking to explore photography for the first time or an experienced photographer seeking to refine your skills, the workshop will offer valuable insights and inspiration.
Where can people go to learn more about you, your work, or to follow your journey? Do you have any projects coming up that you’d like to share or promote?
My film “Lives Well Lived,” which celebrates the wit, wisdom and secrets of older adults, is currently airing on PBS and is also available on Amazon, iTunes, and Kanopy. I’ve also recently released a book titled “Lives Well Lived — GENERATIONS,” which expands on the themes of the film and is available on Amazon.
I have several upcoming projects that I’m excited to share. One is a PBS documentary called “Mochitsuki,” which explores the Japanese tradition of making mochi to celebrate the New Year, highlighting its cultural significance and the resilience of the Japanese American community. Another upcoming PBS documentary is “The Prime Time Band,” which focuses on people returning to music later in life and the impact they have in introducing elementary school children to musical instruments. These projects reflect my ongoing commitment to telling compelling stories that celebrate human resilience and creativity and the power of connecting generations.
