Intro

Welcome to the second edition of Scope, the online magazine of the Film and Video Arts Society-Alberta (FAVA)! This wired celebration and critical discourse of film and video art follows its printed predecessor, FavaScope. Our leap to hypertext better reflects what we do at FAVA, while allowing us to incorporate video, expand our audience and save some trees.

Inspired by, and timed for release around, the Edmonton International Jazz Festival, this edition explores the relationship between art and improvisation.

It starts with a specially commissioned sound piece featuring jazz singer Dianne Donovan, accompanied by the animation of Adolfo Ruiz. This exciting collaboration began with the divine Ms. D’s recording her impressions about improvisation with her partner, Mitch Watkins, from their base in Austin, Texas. The sound piece whistled up to Edmonton, where crackerjack animation artist Adolfo listened to it and added his visual accompaniment.

The festivities continue with an article on improv in the theatrical context from the acclaimed actor, playwright and director, Chris Craddock. There’s a piece providing the lowdown on spontaneous filmmaking from the ebullient co-founder and co-producer of the 48 Hour Festival, Sharon Murphy. And our themes are woven together nicely by hepcat filmmaker Collette Slevinsky, who provides insights culled from her upcoming documentary film on what’s believed to be the oldest jazz club in Canada.

Enjoy the issue, and all that jazz!

Cheers, Geo
Your humble editor