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Xasuus: From Canvas to Cinema | August 7th - 15th

from $75.00

Xasuus (Somali for “memory”) is a virtual experimental filmmaking workshop for artists interested in expanding their work into moving images. Participants will learn how color, symbolism and personal archives can become strong tools for storytelling. Inspired by her practice of incorporating primary colors with Somali motifs, themes of identity and memory into experimental filmmaking, this workshop invites participants to explore how their artistic languages can expand beyond the canvas (or any medium) into film.

Participants will leave with a developed concept and new approaches for translating their creative ideas into moving images. Throughout the workshop, we will explore examples of experimental films (with a focus on arthouse/avant-garde films), a step by step look into the process of “Growing Pains II” short film, discuss techniques, developing a film idea and receive guidance through group conversations and individual feedback sessions. Designed for both beginners and experienced filmmakers, this workshop offers a space to approach filmmaking as a means of processing life and strengthening your unique creative voice.


3 Sessions
August 1st, 8th, & 15th
2 pm - 4 pm

Xasuus (Somali for “memory”) is a virtual experimental filmmaking workshop for artists interested in expanding their work into moving images. Participants will learn how color, symbolism and personal archives can become strong tools for storytelling. Inspired by her practice of incorporating primary colors with Somali motifs, themes of identity and memory into experimental filmmaking, this workshop invites participants to explore how their artistic languages can expand beyond the canvas (or any medium) into film.

Participants will leave with a developed concept and new approaches for translating their creative ideas into moving images. Throughout the workshop, we will explore examples of experimental films (with a focus on arthouse/avant-garde films), a step by step look into the process of “Growing Pains II” short film, discuss techniques, developing a film idea and receive guidance through group conversations and individual feedback sessions. Designed for both beginners and experienced filmmakers, this workshop offers a space to approach filmmaking as a means of processing life and strengthening your unique creative voice.


3 Sessions
August 1st, 8th, & 15th
2 pm - 4 pm

Sliding Scale:

Workshop Facilitator

Wasima Farah is a Somali multidisciplinary artist based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Brooklyn, New York. Her creative practice is anchored in themes of memory, identity, girlhood, family relations, and the complexities of an eldest daughter through Somali motifs in paintings, experimental films and design. Through experimental filmmaking, she explores the intersection of contemporary art and moving images.

Her film practice allows her to explore how color, movement, and sound can communicate emotions and experiences that extend beyond traditional forms of storytelling. She is a Graphic Designer at Soomaal House of Art, Creative Director at The Digital Sisterhood, and an arts educator dedicated to creating space for Somali art. Her work has been showcased at BlackStar Film Festival, Minneapolis Institute of Art, Midway Contemporary Art, Public Functionary, Soomaal House of Art, Augsburg University, Nuit Blanche, East Lake Street Target and more.