More Information
Amanda Salazar recently joined the UCLA Film & Television Archive as Public Programmer. We asked Amanda some questions about herself and her work with the Archive.
What goals do you have for this year in your new role?
I would like to start out by getting to know and work closely with the wonderful Archive staff and team to continue to build on the incredible programming and work that they have been doing. From there, my goals are to bring my passion and interest to the work, creating programs that engage with new audiences and showcase diverse perspectives. I think of programming as a kind of conduit between art and audience, so in many ways the goal would be to have a captivating and meaningful experience that feels seamless. I am very passionate about the connection made between audiences and the work, so I am thrilled to be able to program when we are all collectively gathering together again.
How has your prior experience prepared you for this role at the UCLA Library?
My experience as a film festival programmer and theatrical booker has prepared me in myriad ways for this role. In these environments I have engaged with contemporary and repertory film, worked closely with distributors and filmmakers, facilitated impactful conversations of the work, and connected with local audiences. At the core of my work I aim to foster connection, conversation, and bring an element of fun around film. I am thrilled to be able to combine these experiences for the job ahead.
What projects will you be tackling first?
I will be stepping in right away to assist with booking, moderation, and helping to program the rest of the spring and summer calendar. I am very excited to have started when I did as I will be assisting with the "Imagining Indigenous Cinema" series—set for June—that highlights emerging Indigenous makers. The work that is being made today is so personal and potent, and plays with the moving image in many ways, so it is very exciting to bring these films and filmmakers to UCLA.
What do you like to do outside of work? And/or What are you currently reading/watching/listening to?
Would it be a shock to say that I like to watch movies outside of work? I love to visit art-houses and often find myself choosing to see films based on locations. I also just moved back to Los Angeles from San Francisco, so I am looking forward to discovering the city again. But when I am not watching films, I can be found trail running, cooking, or playing music.
What is your preferred name and what are your preferred pronouns?
Amanda Salazar (she/her)
We are delighted to have Amanda on our team! You can contact her at asalazar@cinema.ucla.edu(opens in a new tab).