2nd Annual Visions of the Black Experience

The second annual Visions of the Black Experience film series took place from November 12–22, 2020, hosted virtually by New College of Florida. This dynamic program celebrated, studied, and explored the historical, social, and cultural aspects of Black life through the power of film.

Audiences enjoyed a diverse selection of previously released documentaries, narrative films, and shorts, alongside new works by emerging filmmakers. The festival’s virtual format allowed for participation from both local and global viewers, expanding the reach of its impactful storytelling. Live Q&A sessions with filmmakers, panel discussions, and educational opportunities offered deeper engagement with the festival’s themes.

The 2020 series highlighted several focal areas, including films created by and for youth and young adults, explorations of Black health and healthcare, and the imaginative realm of Afrofuturism. These themes provided audiences with both historical context and forward-looking perspectives on the Black experience.

This collaborative effort brought together the Sarasota Film Festival, New College of Florida, BDI, the Ringling Museum, the Multicultural Health Institute, and the Manasota chapter of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). Together, the partners delivered a rich and thought-provoking program that celebrated Black culture, history, and creativity.