Today we’d like to introduce you to Zoe Kerr.
Zoe, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey to becoming a cinematographer/director/writer was unexpected. I worked as an actress for almost a decade before even considering taking the step behind the camera. I always thought there would be a moment where I would know I was ready to be a leader, or when someone else would see my potential and essentially tell me it was time—it’s silly thinking about it now, but it’s the truth. Thankfully, in undergrad, I realized no one would just give me that space or grant me that position. I had to claim that title myself and create the art I wanted to see in the world. A friend once told me that success is 10% talent and 90% being in the right place at the right time, but I think that’s not the whole truth. I believe that “success” is 10% talent, 10% being nice to people, 30% of being in right place at the right time, and 50% being ready when that right place and right time comes your way. Put it this way: If you’re calling yourself a writer, you should have something to show people. It doesn’t have to be perfect but have something in your back pocket and many more ideas to present in case someone decides to give you a chance. As I’ve progressed in my career and have begun seeing a lot more mainstream success with competition placements and residency offers, I’ve found that preparation is truly the mother of opportunity.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
All things considered; my career has been pretty smooth. I’m extremely fortunate to have been raised by two creatives that always encouraged me and my work, so it never occurred to me that working in the arts wouldn’t be feasible. I think the only struggles I’ve faced have been typical ones experienced by most artists at some point or other: Self-doubt, rejection, financial uncertainty…The thing that consistently pulled me out of these hardships, ironically, was knowing when to stop and step back. No one is capable of giving 110% all the time, so being self-aware enough to say “Hey, art isn’t giving me money, satisfaction, or confidence right now, so I should focus on saving or finding a hobby or connecting with people outside of work instead,” is a strength and not a weakness.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a director, writer, and cinematographer. I don’t really specialize in any one thing except when it comes to writing. In that respect, I am very much known for my work in magical realism and horror. When it comes to bigger projects, I’m known for writing the play “Everything Will Be Fine” for Prism Movement Theater, as well as creating the promotional images and videos for that. More recently, I collaborated with Bishop Arts Theatre Center in their First Move Playwrights Lab, where I wrote and presented a play titled “Ursa Major.” I was an actor for a very long time, so I guess I’m still known for that as well, even though I haven’t performed for a while! As for what I’m most proud of, anything I do with Prism Movement Theater is up there. I love capturing and writing for movement, and Prism is the best of the best. I also love to write for the screen (little known fact!) and I am very, very proud of the pilot I just completed after chipping away at it since 2020. It took 27 drafts. I wanted to give up so many times, but I am a stubborn high-achiever who hates deleting projects. I think that’s what sets me apart and keeps me up at night. Can’t have one vibe without the other.
What’s next?
2022 has been one of the best years I’ve ever had in terms of personal growth, financial stability, and career advancement. I was named semi-finalist for quite a few residencies and have made major progress in the competition and fellowship sphere, so at this point, my plan is to keep going and build on that foundation. I’m also looking forward to shooting a dance short film based on the 1969 Chappaquiddick Incident in November, and then I plan on seeking funding for a full production that will hopefully go up next year. The biggest change I’m anticipating is officially becoming a Dallas and New York-based artist. To be honest, I’m just excited for myself, period. I imagine my younger self in 2019 diligently setting up dominoes and it feels like 2022 and 2023 are the years where I finally get to see the design I was creating all come together.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.zoekerr.com/
- Instagram: @iamzoekerr
