Inside a Bussey Building studio: Film-maker David J East

Tell us a bit about what you do?

I’m a filmmaker and photographer. I shoot short films, music videos and commercials. I paint weird abstract expressionist scribblings too, haha!

How long have you had a studio in Bussey Building and who do you share it with?

I’ve been in for almost 2 years now. I share with Emile Rafael, who is also a director who paints too. He’s great; check out his work! Also with Malathie De Silva, who makes amazing sculptures.

How long have you been painting for?

I’ve been painting for almost 2 years. Basically, I wanted to get into a studio and start painting. So when I moved into Bussey Bussey I got straight to it. It’s been an amazing experience and I’ve fallen fully in love with the medium.

How do you split your time between film and painting?

I am mostly a filmmaker and work on scripts and ideas in the studio but when I am not doing a commercial or music video, I’ll be painting. It’s such a great separate release of thoughts and creativity, so I’m either doing one or the other. I would love to have more time to paint.

What is your background in, where did you study?

I studied film in Cape Town, South Africa. Spent half of my life there.

Did you enjoy Peckham Festival?

Yeah, it was amaaaaazing. Really, really great turn out and just so good to chat to people about art.

Was it the first year you’d been involved?

Yeah it was, I was away for last year’s one unfortunately!

Did anything cool come out of it?

Yeah, I’ve been speaking to some pros about my art. It was just great to meet other artists and people that enjoy art.

What’s coming up next?

I’m working on a short film project which I’m hoping to shoot soon, which will be really cool. Also shooting a short fashion film in New York next month, which will be awesome!