Artistic Director, Lindy Hume poses six questions to Jillian Mackenzie, curator at the NFSA.

• Describe in a few sentences the work you’re bringing to Ten Days on the Island from your own perspective – what interests and excites you about it? What do you hope audiences will experience?

The NFSA is bringing a wonderful curated collection of short films from the early 20th Century back home to Tasmania. They belonged to the fabulous Corrick family – whose descendants are still on the island. The films are an eclectic mix of fantasy and special effects, classic chase comedies, and striking reality and will be accompanied by the musically talented Dean Stevenson.

• Has the experience of this crazy last year shifted your creative practice and thinking about the world? How?

This year has highlighted our audience’s appetite not only to watch things online but also their appreciation for unique content and films from a different time. We’ve been able to offer some new experiences and we’ve had to think creatively about different ways to connect with people. The Corrick Collection and our partnership with Ten Days on the Island is a great example of this.

• As an artist and audience member, what’s special about festivals?

So many things – being part of a community of appreciative festival-goers; the opportunity to encounter a program of extraordinary and unexpected offerings; and all of the sights, the smells and the tastes.

• Personally and professionally, what are you looking forward to in 2021?

I’m hoping to see a shift from seeing people on screens to reconnecting with friends, family and colleagues face to face.

• Beside your own project, which other artists projects are you looking forward to, why and where?

So much to choose from! Lynette Walworth’s work is amazing so I would love to catch something of hers; the Burnie 2.0 History Walk and Monique Brumby will also be incredible.

• If you have one, what’s your favourite place in Tasmania, and why? And if not, where are you most excited to journey with Ten Days on the Island to?

We’re really keen to visit the local community halls in the If These Halls Could Talk program, and to find out more about their history. I’m also looking forward to seeing more of Tasmania as we drive from place to place.