Rhonda Buckley, a celebrated filmmaker hailing from the picturesque province of Newfoundland, has established herself as a prominent figure in the world of cinema, distinguished by her unique filmmaking approach that consistently incorporates a feminist perspective. With a career spanning multiple decades, Buckley has left an indelible mark on the industry, having produced a vast array of feature films and short films that have garnered widespread acclaim.
Buckley's notable feature films, including the critically acclaimed Sparkle and Shine, Take Hold, Heart Troubles, and Joan and Sadie, have received significant support from Telefilm Canada, a testament to her unwavering dedication to her craft and her ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with audiences.
Throughout her illustrious career, Buckley has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to pushing the boundaries of storytelling, consistently challenging societal norms and expectations through her innovative filmmaking style. Her unwavering passion for her work has earned her a reputation as a true visionary, and her contributions to the world of cinema have left an enduring impact on the industry.
Buckley's extensive repertoire of short films has garnered a multitude of prestigious awards and accolades, cementing her reputation as a talented and accomplished filmmaker. One of her most notable short films, Surrounded by Water, is a heartfelt tribute to the legendary music icon Joan Morrissey, and its excellence was recognized by being shortlisted for the esteemed best dramatic short award at the renowned Yorkton Film Festival.
Additionally, her short film Terranova Matadora, a captivating and unique portrayal of the life of a Newfoundland woman bullfighter, made its debut at the prominent Hot Docs 2016 festival and was generously funded by BravoFact, a testament to its artistic merit and potential for impact.
Furthermore, her short film Avon Ladies Rural Style, another standout in her impressive body of work, was showcased nationally, providing a platform for audiences to appreciate her remarkable storytelling and cinematic skills.
Beyond her work in filmmaking, Buckley has also ventured into the realm of art installations, a creative pursuit that has spanned a decade of dedication and experimentation. During this time, she has designed, constructed, and showcased numerous installations across a diverse range of international settings, including Canada, the United States, and Scotland. Some of her most notable exhibitions have included "Barred", a thought-provoking piece that pushed the boundaries of conventional art forms; "King of the Castle", a visually striking installation that explored themes of power and authority; "Peep Show", a subversive and intriguing work that challenged societal norms; and "TV Talk Show Live", a groundbreaking exhibition that blurred the lines between performance art and live television.
One of the most notable and impactful curatorial endeavors undertaken by Buckley was the extensive and meticulously crafted exhibition titled James Andersen: 50 Years of Taking Pictures, a collaborative project co-produced with Catharyn Andersen and the Nunatsiavut Government. This remarkable exhibition, held at The Rooms in the year 2010, was meticulously curated and based on James Andersen's extensive and historic film collection, which dated back to the 1950s and was located in the quaint and picturesque town of Makkovik, nestled in the beautiful province of Labrador.
