Academics

Jay Craven - Film & Video

Image of Jay Craven "My goal is to tell an inventive and original story," says Jay Craven of his filmmaking approach that he passes along to his students. “It’s not just about equipment or being able to imitate Hollywood.” A respected independent filmmaker, Jay puts his money where his script is; he creates award-winning films on modest budgets, combining the talents of his regular ensemble (Tantoo Cardinal, Bill Raymond, Rusty DeWees, John Griesemer) with well-known actors like Michael J. Fox, Rip Torn, Ernie Hudson, Treat Williams and Martin Sheen.

Jay attributes his filmmaking success to focusing on the same basics he teaches in the classroom: writing and directing. He also emphasizes the importance of collaboration – with lighting specialists, actors, cinematographers, and designers. “I’m working to build a cross-collaborative film program that draws on Marlboro’s impressive resources of filmmakers, actors, musicians, writers, photographers, and visual artists,” he says.

Jay started making super 8mm “epics” as a freshman at Boston University in the late 60’s. In 1974, he settled in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, where he launched the Catamount Arts performing arts program, which grew by the mid-80’s to become northern New England’s largest independent arts producer and presenter. Jay’s awards include the Producers’ Guild of America’s 1995 NOVA Award for Most Promising New Theatrical Motion Picture Producer of the Year. His film credits include High Water (1989), Where the Rivers Flow North (1994), A Stranger in the Kingdom (1998), In Jest (1999), The Year that Trembled (2002), and Disappearances (2006).

M.F.A., Goddard College, 1977; Honorary B.A., Sterling College, 2006; Marlboro College, 1998 –