Page 25 - SOM_SUMMER_2020_FLIPBOOK_Neat

WHAT’S NEW
W
A
WH
E
T
’
S N
FILM CENTER

THE NEWEST ADDITION BY THE
ASHLAND INDEPENDENT FILM
FESTIVAL

he newest addition to Ashland’s vibrant visual and literary arts
Tscene on East Main Street is the new AIFF Film Center. It will
serve as a year-round social hub for film lovers and provide expanded
office space for the growing organization. During its annual flagship
festival in April, the center will also serve as a gathering space for
members and volunteers. “Our members and volunteers will love
the convenience of a comfortable space where they can meet up with
friends, discuss films, and interact with special guests during our fes-
tivals,” says Richard Herskowitz, executive and artistic director of
AIFF.

The move to Main Street is part of the AIFF’s recent build-up of
year-round programming, including the expanded Varsity World
Film Week in the fall and Best of the Fests screenings around the
region. AIFF is working closely with community partners to develop
a program of year-round screenings, classes, workshops, gallery
exhibitions, and more. The new Film Center’s spacious lobby can be
converted into a reception space, a 60-seat screening room, a small
retail area, and a media gallery. According to Herskowitz, “There is
a hunger for the diverse cultural voices and artistic experimenta-
tion of independent films and a growing demand, throughout the
year, for the educational offerings we provide for K-12 through adult
learners.” The new center will also help serve the region’s economic
development and tourism goals. It’s located at 389 East Main Street
and will reopen as soon as is safe to do so.

www.AshlandFilm.org

summer 2020 | www.southernoregonmagazine.com 23