An intensive two-day essayistic filmmaking workshop with artist and filmmaker Riar Rizaldi at ACMI, Melbourne.
Saturday 24 October 2026
to Sunday 25 October 2026
Federation Square, Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
This unique two-day workshop invites artists navigating the transitional space where ideas are potent but form is still emerging to explore the possibilities of essay-film and non-fiction narratives. Led by acclaimed Indonesian filmmaker Riar Rizaldi, participants will engage in a collaborative environment designed to sharpen artistic vision beyond technical skills.
Participants will dive into the art of essayistic filmmaking, focusing on the old school video essay and non-fiction storytelling. The workshop emphasizes creative exploration through group brainstorming and guided feedback sessions, helping artists overcome challenges and bring complex ideas to life on screen. This is not a technical masterclass but a creative crucible for vision development.
The workshop runs over two days, Saturday 24 October and Sunday 25 October 2026, at the Gandel Lab 2, Level 1, ACMI, Federation Square. It is suitable for artists interested in experimental and essayistic film practices. Alongside the workshop, ACMI hosts screenings of Rizaldi's films with filmmaker introductions, enriching the learning experience.
Held at ACMI in Federation Square, Naarm/Melbourne, the venue is accessible by public transport and offers a welcoming environment for artists and families. ACMI is open daily from 10:00 to 17:00, with additional amenities including a cafe and shop. The workshop location, Gandel Lab 2, is on Level 1 of ACMI, providing a professional space for creative collaboration.
Participants are encouraged to review the FAQ and apply in advance as spaces may be limited. The workshop is presented in partnership with Multicultural Arts Victoria, supporting culturally diverse artists. Attendees should prepare for an intensive, idea-driven experience rather than a technical tutorial.
Details on how to apply and ticketing are available on the ACMI website. Pricing information is not specified here, so prospective participants should consult the official event page for costs and booking procedures.
