Georgia Arts Initiative: Film Taster Series

Bringing Industry Access and Education to the Heart of Georgia

The Georgia Arts Initiative (GAII) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit revolutionizing film education across Georgia through its signature Film Taster Series. These are immersive, hands-on experiences designed to break down barriers between emerging creatives and industry professionals.

We bring the full filmmaking ecosystem directly to communities — not just in major cities, but across rural counties and underserved regions.

🎟️ Why Become a GAII Member?

Membership is $50/year and supports our mission to provide real film industry education and community support across Georgia.
As a member, you receive:

🎬 Early access to Film Taster events & workshops
💰 Member discounts on future programs
🤝 A network of working professionals who care

🚀 What’s ahead: Member-only networking events & educational sessions as we grow

📸 GAII Yearly Membership – Click the Image Below to Join

“We’re giving artists space to experiment and learn what their imagination can really do.”
— Kelly Young-Silva, Founder

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• What Makes GAII Film Tasters Unique?

• Union-Backed Insight: Learn from professionals who are active members of key film unions:

1. SAG-AFTRA (Actors, Agents, Union Leadership)
2. CSA (Casting Society of America)
3. DGA (Directors Guild of America)
4. PGA (Producers Guild of America)
5. IATSE 479 & 600 (Props, Set Crew, Camera, Lighting)

• Real-World Industry Knowledge:

1. How to gain union eligibility and credits
2. Interactive workshops
3. Understanding Georgia’s tax incentives and how they affect your work
4. networking

Practical Industry Knowledge: From how to gain union eligibility and credits, to understanding Georgia’s tax incentives, attendees leave with information they can act on immediately.

 

Diverse Guest Experts Have Included:

• Cheryl Louden-Kubin (CSA Casting Director)

• Carol Shaginaw (SAG-AFTRA Agent)

• Matt Borlenghi (SAG-AFTRA Actor)

• Carlos E. Santos (IATSE 479, Master Props)

• Diego Silva-Acevedo and Kelly Young-Silva (PGA Producers)

• Ty Johnston-Chavis (p.g.a. Producer)

• Veronica “Ronnie” Hodge-Hampton (DGA Director)

• Ric Reitz (Actor, former SAG-AFTRA ATL President)

• John “Sparky” Stephens (IATSE 479 and 600)

• Heather Parady (Moderator)

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GAII Is On the Move

We believe art lives in every zip code. That’s why we’re taking the Film Taster experience on the road, bringing education and opportunity to large and small communities across Georgia.

“Art does not stop because systems fail. Art is an engine. And we, the artists, have always been in the business of changing the world.” -Kelly Young Silva,Founder

 

GAII collaborates with:

• Local governments
• Schools and youth programs
• Film commissions
• Community centers

Together, we’re building bridges that strengthen Georgia’s creative economy.

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Why It Matters

GAII’s Film Taster Series:

• ✅ Expands access to credible film education
• ✅ Helps creatives navigate the union and credit systems
• ✅ Sparks connections for rural and underserved artists
• ✅ Promotes ethical, human-centered storytelling
• ✅ Builds a sustainable pipeline for Georgia-based film careers

These events aren’t just educational. They are acts of advocacy, visibility, and restoration — powered by a network of artists who show up.

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• Support the Movement

  GAII is powered by its people. As we grow, we invite you to:

  • Attend a Film Taster event near you
  • Become a member for just $50/year

  • Share our mission with those who believe in art as a force for good

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Page Disclaimer

This page is proudly sponsored and hosted by Words In Motion Acting Studio. Words In Motion provides in-kind support to GAII and receives no financial benefit from GAII memberships or programming. All funds are managed solely by Georgia Arts Initiative, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.