My New Creative Space

I started my new job last week and I found it difficult to maintain some of the positive habits I had picked up during my brief period of unemployment like going to the gym and writing for my blog. I also didn't have any real space to work in my room. My room always looks like a bomb exploded and it's hard for me to focus and work on my creative endeavors. I felt so tired that I wasn't even in the mood to try to organize my space.

I needed help and ideas on how to organize all my things into the small space I have been given. I went straight to the best source for inspiration, Pinterest. On Pinterest I found a photo that completely inspired me to clear out my space and switch things around. I converted my closet to a small office space. My clothes have been moved and I have big plans for them once my wallet catches up to my brilliant ideas. I'm excited about working in my new space. It actually came out a lot better than I expected.

My Converted Closet

I would have a wider shot but then you'd be forced to see the rest of my work in progress. It's like having my own creative nook. I now have a clean space with less distractions. The distractions I do have make me smile and keep me motivated.

Do you have a creative space? If so, please share it. I'd love to get more inspiration for the next time I shift my room around.

Screenwriting Deadlines are Fast Approaching!

There are a few contests and fellowships that have caught my eye this year. I'm giving my script another revision in preparation to submit it. The deadlines are fast approaching! I wanted to share them here just in case there are any contest you aren't familiar with but might be interested in entering. 

Bahamas International Film Festival - Screenwriters Residency Program

Deadlines:

Final Deadline is July 22, 2015

This program is sponsored by ScreenCraft and Buffalo 8 Productions. It's open to Feature Length Screenplays or TV Pilot Screenplays. Six writers will be chosen to spend 4 days developing their screenplay or teleplay during the Bahamas International Film Festival in December. Mentors of the program include Vince Gerardis (Producer from HBO's Game of Thrones) and Dan Guando (Executive Vice President of Acquisitions, Production, and Development at The Weinstein Company). Who wouldn't want to spend four amazing days in the sun getting mentored, networking, and developing their craft. SIGN ME UP!

Get more information about the residency program and fees at screencraft.org/bahamas

Slamdance Screenplay Competition

Deadlines: 

Final Deadline is July 21, 2015

Withoutabox Extended Deadline is July 28, 2015

Slamdance is a film festival dedicated to finding truly independent artists and showcasing their work. They provide script analysis for every writer who submits to their competition. They accept Feature/Horror screenplays, short screenplays, and original teleplays. In addition to the cash prize, the top three winners in each category will win festival passes for all screenings and parties at the Slamdance Film Festival in Park City, Utah. 

Get more information about this competition and fees at showcase.slamdance.com/Screenplay-Competition

Women in Film and Video of Washington, DC Spotlight on Screenwriters Catalog 

Deadlines:

Final Deadline is August 1, 2015

The Spotlight on Screenwriters Catalog is the brainchild of Monica Lee Bellais with the help of Women in Film and Video (WIFV).  She compiles the screenplays of WIFV members and sends a catalog of synopses to producers. If producers are interested they contact Monica and she will send along the full length screenplay. The one catch is that you have to be a member of Women in Film and Video. 

Get more information about the catalog, joining WIFV and fees at www.wifv.org

BlueCat Screenplay Competition

Deadlines: 

Early Deadline is September 1, 2015

Regular Deadline is October 15, 2015

Final Deadline is November 15, 2015

BlueCat Screenplay Competition is open to Feature Length and Short Screenplays. This is a great competition if you are just starting to submit your work. They provide script analysis for every script that enters! The entry fees are totally worth it for this perk alone. 

Get more information about the competition and fees at www.bluecatscreenplay.com

If you're looking for additional contests and festivals check out www.withoutabox.com.

Adventures in "FUNemployment"

I started writing this blog post before I received a job offer yesterday. I had resigned myself to being a freelancer until I found a new position. It came faster than I expected. I'll still share some of my thoughts since I took the time to write them down.


I reached out to one of my friends about quitting my job and part of his reply was "Yay for funemployment". I thought this term was funny even though the situation was a bit scary for me. Thanks Mark! I have to admit it was weird waking up on Monday without a sense of dread and angst about going to work. This was the first time since college that I didn't have a full time job. I left one uncertain situation that I had no control over to a new uncertain situation that I felt I could guide in the direction I wanted it to go.

For the last two weeks I have been able to relax, brainstorm, and get excited about my new creative endeavors. Completing screenplays and staying consistent with my blog are big priorities now. I spent time during the day with my writing partner Joy. We mostly write at night and we learned we're much more focused and productive before 9pm (Duh!). I went to my first ever casting call on Saturday (read about that here), which was also a fun new experience.

My period of unemployment was more like a creative break. It was exciting to have the time but now I'm more excited to start my new job. This is the opportunity I have been waiting for. I'm ready to shine!