Birmingham Public Library Presents Local Filmmaker Jessica Chriesman: A Deep Dive into the Creation of "Philoxenia"
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Philoxenia examines the synergy between the Greek notion of philoxenia ("friend of the stranger") and Southern hospitality, as expressed through Birmingham's Greek-owned restaurants, and has garnered international attention at various film festivals. In this special event, Chriesman will offer an in-depth exploration of her creative process, from the initial concept to its successful international screenings. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear firsthand about Chriesman's journey through the film's development and production, as well as her experiences showcasing the film to audiences around the world.
A key highlight of the evening will be Chriesman's discussion of how she utilized the Birmingham Public Library's Archives Department as an integral resource for Philoxenia. Chriesman will share insights into her research process, demonstrating how archival materials from the library played a pivotal role in crafting the film's narrative and enriching its historical context.
- What: A Deep Dive into the Creation of Philoxenia
- Date: Saturday, August 3, 2024
- Time: 1:00–2:00 p.m.
- Location: Birmingham Public Library | 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203
- Arrington Auditorium | Research Library, Fourth Floor
- Details: The Archives Department is hosting local filmmaker Jessica Chriesman for a discussion on her process and a screening of her short film Philoxenia, which explores the relationship between Greek culture and Southern hospitality through Birmingham's Greek-owned restaurants. This program is free and open to the public. The Arrington Auditorium is accessible through the Central Library's East Building by using the skybridge found on the third floor of the East Building. Free parking is provided for patrons in the parking lot located next to the East Building. For more information or questions, contact Catherine Champion at catherine.oseas@cobpl.org.
About Jessica Chriesman
Jessica Chriesman is an award-winning filmmaker based in Birmingham, Alabama. She has worked as a director, producer, researcher, and/or cinematographer on projects for Twin Cities Public TV, Southern Foodways Alliance, Vox Creative, Alabama Public Television, Dirty Robber and more. She is the Director of Education and Outreach at Sidewalk Film Center and Cinema where she plans learning opportunities through the lens of film and media. In 2021, Jessica was named a Morgridge Acceleration Program Fellow working with the Jane Goodall Institute on their storytelling strategies. She has served as a grants panelist for the National Endowment for the Arts and the Alabama State Council on the Arts and as a juror and programmer for film festivals across the South. She has led storytelling and filmmaking classes and workshops at UAB, Georgetown, and the University of Florida, and for the Jane Goodall Institute Africa Programs staff in Kigoma, Tanzania. Her films have screened across the United States and internationally. Compelled by stories of people and places, in her budding career Jessica has focused on telling Southern stories through the lenses of food and culture, social justice and history, and nonprofit organizations and the populations they serve.
About the Birmingham Public Library Archives
The Birmingham Public Library Archives serves as a repository for historical documents and materials related to the rich cultural heritage of Birmingham and its surrounding areas. Committed to preserving the past for future generations, the Archives provides access to a wealth of resources for research, education, and public enrichment. Follow the Archives and Manuscripts Department on Facebook and Instagram to see their latest programs and other developments.
By Catherine Oseas Champion | Head of Archives and Manuscripts Department, Central Library
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