PRODUCER/DIRECTOR
Jen Dietrich

Dietrich is a first time director and producer. Raised in the Midwest, Dietrich earned her BFA in painting and drawing from University of Minnesota in Duluth, MN and then her MA and MFA from the University of Alaska in Fairbanks, AK. From 1996-2000, Dietrich taught drawing, painting and art history at the University of Alaska and was the director of the Alaska Art Institute. As director, Dietrich built a highly successful program by attracting major exhibiting artists and art historians to be keynote speakers at the institute including: Sister Wendy Beckett, Dave Hickey, Judy Pfaff, Ruth Weisberg, Robert Hughes, Chuck Close and Philip Pearlstein.

In 2003 Dietrich added documentary filmmaking to her work as a studio artist and co-founded the film company UnderBelly Films, LLC. with business partner Sara Nitschke. They have recently directed and produced a documentary short film titled Naked Vision, based on the life and work of New York realist painter Philip Pearlstien. Currently, Dietrich is an Assistant Professor of Art and Design at the University of Minnesota Duluth, where she teaches in both the studio art and art education areas. Her work has been featured in numerous venues both nationally and internationally.

PRODUCER/DIRECTOR
Sarah Nitschke

Nitschke is an Associate Professor of Visual Arts and the Graphic Design area head at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee, WI. She holds a B.F.A. in printmaking from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, and an M.F.A. in sculptural installation from the University of Colorado at Boulder. She also trained at a number of respected U.S. and international art institutions, including The School of the Art Institute of Chicago and Central St. Martins in London, England. Nitschkes’ work is multi-disciplinary, in addition to filmmaking, her creative work includes contemporary art, design and creative direction for non-profits and corporations. Nitschke has received many grants and fellowships in support of her artwork. She has exhibited nationally and internationally and recently had a solo exhibition (with collaborative partner, artist Robin Assner) of new work titled Dismantling Evil at Good Citizens Gallery in St. Louis, MO, from January 21–February 26, 2011.