Our Creator Spotlight this month is on Zachary Blair aka ZEEBZ, an Arkansas born filmmaker who currently lives and creates in New York City. He has had his short films screened at festivals all across the country, as well as online premieres. His latest short film, titled “The Taste of Neon”, recently had its international premiere at The Soho International Film Festival. In addition to being a successful filmmaker, Zach is also an award-winning classical oil painter and a professional actor who has toured the country. Regarding his broad range of creative endeavors and talents, he said,  "I believe the best inspiration comes from the people around you, and that is reflected in my artistic endeavors. Because life can be bizarre, tragic, funny, and embarrassing, I don't keep to one genre and instead tell stories that encompass everything."

Zach chatted with us about his work.

At what point in your life did you know you wanted to be a filmmaker?

In high school, I realized that I wanted to pursue a career in filmmaking.  I have always had a passion for writing and creating imaginary worlds through illustrations, so I saw film as a natural progression for me.

How have you studied and learned your craft?

I chose to study painting and acting in college and then also work as a Production Assistant with local production companies in Arkansas to gain experience on film sets. I strongly believe that there is no better film school than being on set regularly! Filmmaking, to me, is all about composition and storytelling. Visual arts help to learn composition and acting helps with storytelling. I have continued to improve my skills by being on set whenever possible and working on shorter-form projects such as music videos. When you can tell a story in under 3 minutes, the writing aspect of it becomes easier and easier.

What have been some career highlights for you?

I have had a diverse range of career highlights. As an actor, I was fortunate enough to tour around the country. Additionally, I participated in gallery competitions across the country and more recently in NYC. Last year, I had the opportunity to have a film that premiered at a few bigger festivals. It was an honor to be a part of the SOHO International Film Festival in NYC alongside big names like JK Simmons.

You’re also a painter - do you feel that has benefitted you as a filmmaker?

Certainly. I am currently training with an oil painter in New York City. This experience has helped me gain a deeper understanding of composition and the power of a single frame to convey a story. Additionally, studying classical art has influenced the lighting aspect of my upcoming short “Stick and Poke”, giving it a distinct look and feel.

Tell us some about your next project?

Currently, I’m working on a short “Stick and Poke” about  A tattoo artist and painter who is diagnosed with LHON, a mitochondrial disease causing central vision loss, leaving her with an unknown amount of days with her remaining vision, and must race against her disease to create as many paintings as possible. As you can see, being a painter has also affected my writing! I think there are so many unique painter stories that have yet to be told.

How can people follow along with your work?

They can follow us on Instagram @Stickandpoke_film or myself @thatzeebz. There is a link in both bios and it has all of our info on how they can donate and follow along! and if they want to see some of my older stuff go to my website Flicksbyzeebz.com.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Support Small Independent Films!! and help get the next generation of voices (Specifically from Arkansas) out there! Arkansas is oozing with talent and I’m so happy I get to tell people in NYC about my collaborators from my hometown of Little Rock. I’ve already started writing a feature that I hope to shoot in Little Rock inspired by my time with my best friend as small-time actors/artists navigating the South.

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