Teachings
Teaching Background
Rouzbeh Rashidi, an expert in experimental filmmaking, has been sharing his wisdom and expertise since 2019 through various educational initiatives. His teachings, which are deeply rooted in his experiences and philosophies developed during his tenure at the Experimental Film Society (EFS), have spanned a period of five years, impacting hundreds of students and professionals across the globe.
As the driving force behind EFS, Rashidi has cultivated the organization into a renowned entity in the world of experimental cinema. Over numerous years, EFS has consistently demonstrated its commitment to creating unique film projects that reflect its distinctive cinematic perspective. This dedication has resulted in the production of a significant number of films, characterized by their audacious and exploratory nature.
Under Rashidi's leadership, EFS has made substantial contributions to the field of experimental cinema. The society has produced and supported numerous no-budget or low-budget full-length films, with a portfolio boasting an impressive collection of short films. This output signifies a significant achievement in the realm of independent cinema, where resources are often limited.
Beyond film production, EFS, under Rashidi's guidance, has also gained recognition for its curated experimental film screenings. These events have showcased the works of affiliated filmmakers and artists on a global stage, further cementing EFS's position as a leading entity in the promotion of experimental cinema.
In summary, Rouzbeh Rashidi's achievements in the field of experimental filmmaking education and his contributions through the Experimental Film Society are quantifiable not only in the number of films produced and the screenings curated but also in the wide-reaching impact of his teachings on aspiring filmmakers worldwide.
Teaching Methods
Throughout his educational journey, he has transitioned from rigid, uninspiring teaching methods to a more lively, intuitive, and engaging pedagogical approach. He infuses his courses, both emotionally and practically, with a spontaneous exploration of poetic concepts, immersing students in the captivating allure of lyrical expressions. He delves into the profound depths of philosophical notions intricately woven within the fabric of cinema. His approach nurtures an environment that encourages creative thinking, enabling students to understand and appreciate the intricate interplay between emotion, fragmented narrative, and visual aesthetics in filmmaking.
Instead of merely perpetuating pre-established filmmaking ideologies, he ardently endeavours to construct a compelling cinematic experience that engrosses the audience. He aspires to guide students into the mystical, otherworldly realm of personal and experimental cinema. He aims to steer them through this visually stunning yet eerily haunting terrain, equipping them with the skills and confidence to etch their unique pathway in the realm of filmmaking.
His teachings are not merely theoretical; they are an organic extension of his filmmaking practices. The inclusion of performative lecture elements, combined with lyrical and intuitive guidance, has become an integral part of his effective teaching methodology.
He presents an array of meticulously curated courses, masterclasses, and workshops catering to diverse learning objectives. These educational offerings represent the culmination of years of dedicated teaching, consistent refinement, and an unyielding commitment to educational excellence. Over time, his courses have been met with positive feedback from a global community of students, a testament to their effectiveness and his innovative approach to teaching.
Academic Credentials
As a freelance educator, he consistently collaborates and orchestrates various courses with prestigious institutions such as Universität der Künste Berlin (Udk). His commitment to education is regular and ongoing, reflecting his passion for fostering academic growth.
Between 2021 and 2024, he expertly delivered and conducted a comprehensive series of successful courses and masterclasses at the Berlin Art Institute. Each of these educational programs was thoughtfully designed from scratch, reflecting his commitment to providing authentic and impactful learning experiences. He painstakingly refined every detail, ensuring that each course met the highest standard of quality. His classes and masterclasses quickly gained popularity, earning widespread respect among their participants. This acclaim testifies to his unique teaching skills and the value of the knowledge he imparts. It's noteworthy to mention that his students hailed from all corners of the globe, with individuals from all seven continents making the journey to Berlin specifically to attend his classes. This international aspect of his teachings not only attests to his global appeal but also contributed to creating a diverse, enriched learning atmosphere. The multicultural environment fostered by his classes yielded a highly productive and fertile ground for exchanging ideas, further enhancing the overall educational experience.
In addition to these roles, he has shared his expertise through teaching assignments and delivering masterclasses at several other notable institutions worldwide. These include the Hochschule für Gestaltung Offenbach in Offenbach, Germany; filmArche e.V., located in Berlin, Germany; Kino Armata in Pristina, Kosovo; the Tehran International Short Film Festival in Iran; Baltic Analog Lab in Riga, Latvia; UNATC I. L. Caragiale in Bucharest, Romania; and Lichtenberg Studios, also based in Berlin, Germany. Each experience has provided him with an opportunity to influence and inspire a diverse range of students and professionals in their respective fields.
