by Lizabeth Wells
Montauk is set to host the anticipated Offshore Art & Film Festival on September 13-14th. Now in its third year, this esteemed festival celebrates the dynamic interplay between art and film with a distinctive ‘Art by Day & Film by Night’ format. The festival promises a weekend of artistic exploration, cinematic marvels, and engaging discussions, all set against the stunning backdrop of Montauk.
The festivities will commence on Friday, September 13th, with an exclusive VIP gala held at the elegant Lucore Art Gallery from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Attendees will enjoy an opportunity to mingle with visionary film directors and witness a special screening of the independent film American Pot Story: Oaksterdam, directed by Dan Katzir and Ravit Markus. Following the film, an intimate panel discussion and Q&A session delving into the theme of transformative change and the role of individual action in sparking social movements.
On Saturday, September 14th, the festival shifts to the picturesque Hero Beach Club, located next to one of Montauk’s most beautiful beaches. From 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, the club’s grounds will feature an art showcase, spotlighting local talents such as Alana Rogers, Peter Ngo, Richard Mothes, and Lucy Villeneuve. Additionally, activations by Montaukila and Candied Anchor will add to the vibrant atmosphere.
Hamptons Social had the pleasure of interviewing Jordan Bromley, co-founder of the Offshore Art & Film Festival, to gain deeper insights into what makes the festival unique, its founding history, and the process behind selecting films and art.
What is the essence of the Off-Shore Film Festival? What makes it unique?
BROMLEY: What I’ve always considered the crux of Offshore is its unwavering search for emerging creatives. It’s about giving artists a platform, hearing their stories, and witnessing their craft. We showcase their talents to a community enriched with its own magic and history of intrigue. Montauk is that place. It inspires everyone, and it’s certainly at Offshore’s core.
Can you tell us a bit about its history and how it was founded?
BROMLEY: The festival was founded several years ago with the intention of creating a platform—a stage for our friends to express themselves and showcase their art. Whether it was film, painting, photography, fashion, or sports, it didn’t matter. Montauk is brimming with an incredible array of creative talent, from locals to transplants. Our surreal Montauk experiences shaped our vision for the festival.
What do we have to look forward to at this year’s festival?
BROMLEY: This year, we can expect a vast range of storytelling and artistic expression. The artists selected by Mr. Ryan Sherman, our Director of Operations, are simply incredible. Ryan has a unique eye for raw talent and curation, and the art walk he is creating will reflect that. Artists such as Alana Rogers, Peter Ngo, Lucy Villeneuve, and Richard Mothes each possess the capability to take our breath away.
Can you tell us a bit about some of this year’s films and categories?
BROMLEY: Our featured categories this year will include documentary shorts, experimental art films, comedic shorts, surf and skate, LGBTQ+, documentary features, and, of course, student films!
What can I say about the films? Well, I’m a stickler for the rules—so no spoilers. But I can guarantee that people will laugh, cry, gasp, holler—and most importantly, in my opinion—leave the festival thinking about the films, conversing about them the next day, and perhaps even the day after that.
BROMLEY: What is the decision process like for selecting films for the festival?
It’s an arduous journey that begins every January, in the cold of winter, and ends in the balmy heat of high summer. We receive dozens upon dozens of submissions from filmmakers all over the world. Offshore is fortunate to have a great team that watches, rates, and reviews every submission. People like Kait Kelly, Barbara Schultz, and Kasia Kowelik are not only integral to Offshore but are also part of the fabric of our community, immersed in the world of film, art, and literature. I trust their judgment and admire their instincts one hundred percent.
