Meet a VC Archives: Artist in Residence - Habiba Hassaan

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Learn about one of VC archives’ inaugural cohort of Artists in Residence, Habiba Hassaan!

What inspired you to pursue film/media arts

I was first passionate about drawing as an expressive tool and art form. With time, the idea of making my drawings move became more and more interesting. Animation could expand my storytelling through drawing in ways that still amaze me. Telling stories through animation broadened the possibilities of portraying different states, emotions, and perceptions in endless ways, on a large spectrum from abstract to realism. I am also a photographer and I love experimenting with mixed media animation and stop motion.

What attracted you to the VC Archives?

Since I was a kid, I felt that my family’s old photos had a special allure to them, like a window to a distant black and white past. The idea of visually time travelling to the past enchanted me, and it is only possible through archives. The VC archives residency is a chance for me to involve archives in my process of filmmaking and enrich my documentary filmmaking skills.

What projects are you currently working on?

I am working on a short experimental poetic documentary that blends archival material, personal interviews, and animation to tell a story about a Palestinian family’s past, present, and future. I am also working on a photography project called “27 Stories”.

What do you like to do during your free time? Tatreez (Palestinian embroidery), reading, journaling with a cup of tea.  

Favorite Films:

  • The Teacher (2023)

  • Maya donna-moi un titre

  • Capernaum (كفرناحوم)

  • The Little Prince

Dream music festival lineup: El Sheikh Imam, Shkoon, Emel Mathlouthi, Mashrou Laila, Nemahsis, Synaptik, 47Soul, James Blake, Michael Kiwanuka, Polo & Pan

Unpopular opinion: “Third world countries” are more civilized than western countries.

Restaurant recommendation: Cilantro Mexican Grill - 7214 Whitsett Ave, Los Angeles, CA 91605-4315 & Raffi's Place Restaurant - Glendale

Where to find you: Instagram: @beebs.animates