Areya Simmons

Mission Statement:  Transmute life into moving pictures, words and sound, and bring about positive change.

I am a storyteller in the pursuit of truth, and I see stories as the creative expression of that truth.

I have always held a passion for storytelling in all its forms.  To me, it is as natural as breathing.  I made my first film at age 16, a documentary on mercury poisoning, an illness I had experienced first-hand at two separate times in my life, once at 12 and again at 14.  My documentary, titled 'Hg and Me', received city-wide attention in my hometown of Pittsburgh, and within 15 months, got water quality laws in Pennsylvania concerning mercury contamination changed that exceeded federal regulations.  This experience made me decide I wanted to be a filmmaker.

I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film and Television with a minor in Sound Design at Savannah College of Art and Design in Savannah, GA.  Since enrolling, I have garnered extensive experience in all aspects of filmmaking and sound design through work on student projects, freelance jobs, and 2 internships.  My internships were held at Mike Wittlin Productions during the filming of 'In Northwood' and New Perspective Productions, both in Pittsburgh.  My specialties are video editing, location sound recording and mixing, post sound editing and mixing, and all aspects of Foley.  I also have experience in graphic design, web design, motion graphics, and voice acting.

Filming commenced on my Senior Thesis Film, 'Life Path' October 8, 2010 and the final cut was completed April 1st, 2011.  Over 50 cast and crew members contributed countless hours to bring the film to life, and it is my smoothest and most successful production to date.

Upon graduation, my concentration will be on video editing, motion graphics, and post production sound.  I graduate in June, 2012.

- Areya Simmons

ABOUT

AREYA SIMMONS