About The Film
My goal is to create a film that not only documents Cox’s artistic journey but also inspires viewers to confront their own biases and take action against injustice. Success for me means crafting a documentary that serves as both a powerful testament to V.L.’s impact and a call to action for audiences to engage in the ongoing fight for equality.
Chris Valentino
Director
Why This Story - Now!
Cox’s art serves as a bridge between America’s troubled past and its ongoing struggle for social justice. By confronting viewers with powerful visual metaphors, Cox’s art aims to inspire action and promote a more equitable society.
01.
Cultural Relevance
V.L. Cox’s art connects historical struggles with contemporary justice movements, addressing systemic racism, LGBTQ+ rights, and the resurgence of hate groups. By repurposing symbols like segregation signs and Klan robes in modern contexts, her work challenges societal norms and encourages reflection on progress and ongoing challenges.
Her work also challenges societal norms around religion. Growing up in the Bible Belt, Cox uses her art to question how faith has been weaponized against marginalized communities while advocating for its potential as a force for inclusion. This duality resonates deeply in today’s polarized climate.
02.
Important, Timely, and Relevant
V.L. Cox’s story is profoundly relevant today, as the U.S. grapples with systemic racism, LGBTQ+ discrimination, and hate groups. Her art confronts historical injustices and modern inequities, bridging past and present to inspire change. This project amplifies Cox’s voice at a critical time for equity and human rights discussions.
03.
How This Film Stands Apart
“V.L. Cox: The Art of Social Change” uniquely bridges historical memory with contemporary activism in the American South. Unlike other films, it fuses aesthetics and activism, showcasing Cox’s journey from a segregated upbringing to becoming a voice for equality.
This documentary highlights her artistic process and personal risks as an outspoken and courageous artist.
04.
Themes and Challenges
The documentary explores themes like the legacy of Jim Crow, art as activism, intersectionality, and the personal risks of speaking out. It challenges viewers to confront America’s history and inspires hope for a more equitable future. Cox’s work addresses systemic racism, LGBTQ+ rights, and the weaponization of faith, emphasizing the ongoing fight for equality.
05.
Timeliness
This project is timely amidst ongoing racial reckoning, LGBTQ+ rights battles, and debates over historical memory. Cox’s art aligns with movements like Black Lives Matter and underscores the importance of confronting America’s past honestly. The documentary offers hope amidst division, highlighting art as a powerful tool for progress.
06.
Experienced Storytellers
As a veteran filmmaker, I bring a deep commitment to capturing authentic narratives that inspire action. This documentary aligns with my mission to use film for social change, elevating Cox’s narrative by bringing diverse voices together. The storytelling approach is rooted in empathy and visual language to evoke emotion and inspire chan
Meet Our Team
Chris Valentino
Chris Valentino is an award-winning producer and director known for his human-centric stories.
Jeff Enkler
Jeff Enkler is a Hudson Valley based cinematographer and editor. When not at work, he can be found in nature, traveling, or rock climbing.
Christine Kapetanakis
Christine Kapetanakis is an Emmy award-winning producer and editor.
Let's Make A Movie!
As we continue to share V.L. Cox’s inspiring journey, we are seeking additional funding to support the documentary’s distribution and outreach efforts, ensuring her message reaches a wider audience.
Contact us to make an impact.