Evolene (Documentary)

by Sam Mao

The film documents Evolene (Zhang Xiaohua), a 49 year old Chinese women, who was a student (current graduate) of The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and her exploration, progress, and growth in her artistic pursuit with abstract expressionism having transitioned from a successful business career with no previous experiences in art. The film is in Chinese with English subtitles.

“I watched his beautiful portrait film of Evolene and thought it quite good. Great cinematography, excellent audio, good pacing and balance between seeing the artist at work and seeing her actual work. There were several nice touches. One of my favorites was his juxtaposition of Evolene watering her plants on her studio window sill and applying water droplets to her artwork. I also liked seeing the one work over time and also the way Sam framed the comparisons between Evolene's art and works by de Kooning, etc. Evolene was a great character to focus on - engaging, likable, so articulate about her alignment with art.”

- Jill Drew, former journalist at The Washington Post

American Mural Project

(Public Opening Promotional Video) by Sam Mao + Morgan Langer

Final product of my internship @American Mural Project, filmed and edited the official public opening of AMP after 20+ years of work by Ellen Griesedieck - The Mount Rushmore for those who go unnoticed but build history.

Featuring Ellen Griesedieck and Ned Lamont (Governor of Connecticut)

Special thanks towards the American Mural Project and Ellen herself.

Completed under the guidance of Ted Perotti (Pig Iron Films) and Vance Cannon.