Janessa St. Pierre, a renowned and accomplished Black filmmaker who identifies as Queer, has a profound connection to the lands that have been inhabited by the indigenous peoples of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm, Skwxwú7mesh, and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh Nations for centuries, with her presence and work deeply rooted in the rich cultural heritage and history of these unceded territories.
Janessa's foray into the world of cinema commenced in 2017, bolstered by a solid educational foundation in Film Studies from Concordia University, where she had the opportunity to delve deeply into the intricacies of the art form. This academic foundation was subsequently augmented by a diploma in Motion Picture Arts from Capilano University, allowing her to further hone her skills and expand her knowledge of the craft.
As her career progressed, Janessa's talents and expertise were sought after by various production companies and studios in the vibrant Vancouver film industry. With her skills and experience continually evolving, she has since flourished across a diverse range of roles, solidifying her position as a respected and accomplished figure in the world of filmmaking.
Her extensive and diverse professional background encompasses a range of creative and technical roles, including Production Designer and Set Dresser, where she skillfully brought sets to life, and Production Assistant, Art Assistant, and Director's Assistant for the renowned Mimi Cave.
Throughout her career, she has made significant contributions to a wide array of projects, including Shorts, Features, Music Videos, and Commercials, many of which have garnered critical acclaim. Notable examples of her work include "The Body Remembers When the World Broke Open" and "FRESH", two projects that have received widespread recognition for their innovative storytelling and exceptional craftsmanship.
In addition to her work in the film and television industry, she has also lent her expertise to commercial ventures, collaborating with prominent brands such as London Drugs and Burt's Bees.
Janessa's impressive journey in the world of filmmaking began with a notable achievement, earning her first writing credit for a short film that was produced during her time at Capilano University. This remarkable accomplishment, titled "Think Again", went on to win the prestigious Best Short award at the IGen Youth Festival in Miami, a testament to her burgeoning talent. This early success served as a springboard for her growth as a Director and a masterful storyteller, paving the way for a promising career in the industry.
Janessa's most recent entrepreneurial endeavour, aptly titled "Hair or No Hair", unequivocally underscores her burgeoning reputation as a creative force to be reckoned with. This cinematic masterpiece, a product of the esteemed Black Creators Edition Grant (2022),courtesy of TELUS StoryHive and the Black Screen Office, has garnered widespread critical acclaim and recognition.
Notably, "Hair or No Hair" has emerged as a double winner at the prestigious Micheaux Film Festival and the LA Shorts Festival, a testament to its exceptional quality and artistic merit. Furthermore, this outstanding short film has been nominated for the coveted Panavision "Best Short" award at the Micheaux Film Festival, a prestigious honour that speaks volumes about its exceptional storytelling and technical prowess.
Janessa's remarkable achievement in creating "Hair or No Hair" serves as a testament to her unwavering dedication, innovative spirit, and unrelenting passion for storytelling, cementing her position as a rising star in the world of filmmaking.
Janessa St. Pierre, a shining example of artistic evolution and boundless potential, has been honored with the esteemed VIFF catalyst mentorship program for 2023, a distinction that underscores her remarkable talent and dedication to the craft of storytelling.
With a unique and captivating voice that resonates deeply with audiences, Janessa St. Pierre has been making a profound impact on the world of film, consistently pushing the boundaries of creative expression and inspiring countless individuals with her passionate commitment to the art form.
As a testament to her unwavering dedication and unrelenting passion, Janessa St. Pierre continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of film, her presence felt far and wide as she navigates the ever-changing landscape of the industry with a sense of purpose and a steadfast commitment to her artistic vision.
Janessa St. Pierre, a highly acclaimed and accomplished Black, Queer filmmaker, has established a notable presence within the Vancouver film industry, with her professional journey commencing in 2017. Born into the rich cultural heritage of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations, Janessa's artistic expression is deeply rooted in her Indigenous upbringing and experiences.
Janessa, a distinguished graduate of Concordia and Capilano universities, boasts an impressive array of professional experience, having traversed various roles within the film industry. Notably, she has demonstrated her expertise as a Production Designer, Set Dresser, and Director's Assistant, accumulating a diverse portfolio that showcases her versatility and adaptability.
Janessa's extensive body of work is characterized by an eclectic mix of genres and mediums, including Shorts, Features, Music Videos, and Commercials. Her impressive resume is punctuated by a string of notable projects, including the critically acclaimed "The Body Remembers When the World Broke Open" and the highly successful "FRESH".
Janessa's inaugural writing credit, a noteworthy achievement in the realm of cinematic storytelling, was secured through her involvement with the short film "Think Again", a production that would go on to claim the prestigious Best Short award at the esteemed IGen Youth Festival in Miami, a testament to her burgeoning talent and creative prowess.
