Austin Kleon — Part of the job of the artist is to help people...

Piece by Ted Hope aimed at filmmakers, but true for all artists, especially authors:

If you make films, it is your responsibility to help others discover what is good to watch. If you love films — or a particular type of film — it is your responsibility to help others learn to appreciate those films too. ”Discovery” is not something you can expect others to EVER do unless you yourself embrace the practice first. ”Spreading the word” is part of a filmmaker’s job description, albeit sincerely & authentically.

Independent filmmaking must be a community activity if it is to survive. You can’t leave good films alone. You have to make it your battle to get those movies seen.

Blogging is a great way to contribute:

I launched this blog and maintain it in hopes that a process of sharing, of collective thinking, transparent effort and experimentation may bring us back to a sustainable enterprise. Through it I have been able to meet many new filmmakers, entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and just generally interesting people. They have helped elevate my work, and I am excited when I can also help them. I like to think that this community effort somehow pushes our rock a bit more up the hill. Filmmaking though is only part of the equation. Film consumption is equally important. Are we helping the good movies get discovered and appreciated?

cf. If you want to be a writer, you have to be a reader.