Karina Dandashi is a multifaceted and accomplished individual, hailing from the culturally rich and eclectic city of Pittsburgh, where she was born and raised. As a first-generation Arab-American Muslim, Karina embodies a unique blend of heritage and identity, which she has channeled into her creative pursuits as a writer, director, and actor.
Karina's artistic endeavors are deeply rooted in her experiences as a diasporic sad girl, driven by a profound passion to craft art that authentically reflects her complex emotions and life story. Through her filmmaking, she delves into the intricate tapestry of identity, skillfully interweaving themes of family, religion, and culture within the contexts of Southwest Asian and North African (SWANA) and Muslim communities in America.
Karina's work is a testament to her unwavering dedication to telling stories that are both deeply personal and universally relatable, shedding light on the often-overlooked experiences of marginalized communities. Her artistry is characterized by a keen sense of empathy, a deep understanding of the human condition, and a commitment to creating work that inspires, educates, and challenges audiences.
As a multifaceted artist, Karina's creative output is marked by a distinct fusion of styles, genres, and mediums, reflecting her boundless curiosity, creativity, and passion for storytelling. Her work is a reflection of her own journey, as well as a testament to the power of art to transcend borders, cultures, and identities.
Karina's story is a powerful reminder that creativity knows no bounds, and that the most compelling art often emerges from the intersection of personal experience, cultural heritage, and artistic vision. Her work is a beacon of hope, a celebration of diversity, and a testament to the transformative power of art to bring people together, spark meaningful conversations, and inspire positive change.
Karina boasts an impressive array of credentials, having been appointed as a 2020 Silver Sun Diverse Voices Creative Culture Fellow at the esteemed Jacob Burns Film Center, a prestigious honor that acknowledges her exceptional talent and dedication to the craft.
Furthermore, she has also been selected as a 2021 Sundance Ignite Fellow, a coveted recognition that underscores her remarkable potential as a creative force in the film industry.
Karina's remarkable work has not gone unnoticed, with her feature being featured in Marie Claire's inaugural Creators Issue, where she was proudly named one of the "Top 21 Creators to Watch" in 2022, a testament to her innovative approach and boundless creativity.
Moreover, her debut feature script, OUT OF WATER, has been handpicked by the renowned Film Independent for the 2023 Screenwriting Lab, a recognition that speaks volumes about her exceptional writing skills and the immense potential of her project.
