WORK / Documentary /

Aivazovsky 201

Aivazovsky 2017

  

Synopsis

Marking the bicentennial of Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky, "I Am Aivazovsky: Born of Crimea" emerges as a unique creative laboratory, bringing together journalists from Yalta and Sevastopol, students from the Vernadsky Crimean Federal University, and the Higher School of Journalism and Mass Communications in Saint Petersburg. The documentary delves into the heart of Feodosia, exploring the lives of local residents, students and staff of the Feodosian Art School, sailors inspired by Aivazovsky's love for the sea, museum employees, and the guardian of the Armenian church. With the support of Armenian patrons, significant restoration efforts—such as the facade of the art gallery and Aivazovsky's grave near the Church of Saint Sarkis—are highlighted, showcasing the community's dedication to preserving its cultural heritage. The film also features the stories of builders and restorers who have contributed to maintaining the legacy of Crimea's treasures. Echoing the theme "Crimea, Open to the World," the documentary posits that through Aivazovsky’s legacy, the global community will come to recognize and cherish the unique beauty and charm of Crimea—a charm that once captivated the artist himself. The film has been lauded by jurors for its professional execution and innovative approach to narrating history, offering viewers a journey through the enchanting landscapes and rich cultural tapestry that shaped one of Russia's most iconic painters.

Work Experience

Joining the editing team midway, I was faced with a daunting challenge. The existing edit was in disarray—confusing, difficult to follow, and far from the director's vision. The original editor was at an impasse; paradoxically, while there was an abundance of information, there was a scarcity of usable footage. This demanded a strategic and skilled approach to not only make sense of what was available but also to fulfill the director's requirements. Despite the difficulties, I managed to navigate through these constraints. The breakthrough came from leveraging Ivan Aivazovsky's magnificent artworks. By thoughtfully integrating these paintings, we were able to enrich the narrative, add visual splendor, and importantly, align the film with the director's vision. This creative solution not only salvaged the project but also underscored the importance of adaptability and innovative thinking in filmmaking. Ultimately, my contribution played a crucial role in transforming a once chaotic assembly of clips into a coherent and visually captivating documentary that honored Aivazovsky's legacy.