Jef Mertens embarked on a journey to hone his skills as a photographer, culminating in his graduation in the year 2001. However, his creative aspirations soon took a dramatic turn as he became a self-taught filmmaker, driven by an insatiable passion for the art form.
In the early days of his filmmaking career, Mertens decided to chronicle the travels of the renowned rock band Sonic Youth as they embarked on a European tour. The result was a series of rough, unedited tour diaries that provided a unique glimpse into the band's world.
Fast forward to 2007, Mertens released his first full-length documentary, "Dronevolk", which delved into the fascinating world of Belgian drone and weirdfolk music. The documentary featured four prominent bands in the genre, offering audiences a captivating insight into their creative processes.
After a decade-long hiatus, Mertens returned to the documentary scene in 2016 with his second feature film, this time focusing on the avant-garde noise group Borbetomagus. The film premiered to widespread acclaim, with critics praising its unique perspective and masterful storytelling.
Throughout his career, Mertens has demonstrated a remarkable ability to captivate audiences with his innovative storytelling and unwavering dedication to his craft. His films have traveled the world, leaving a lasting impression on all who have had the pleasure of experiencing them.
