Denaise Seals

My first degree in criminal justice taught me time and again that knowledge is power. This is echoed even more strongly in the realm of media that I now inhabit. I like to think of my work in two parts that are intertwined: learning how to create effective messaging allows us to absorb external messaging more thoughtfully, and vice versa. Taken together, they’re a potent force. I call it media savvy. I’ve made it a central theme in my life to help others—particularly kids in less privileged areas—gain access to this invaluable skill.

I’ve had the pleasure to work with more than 1,000 young people through these Media Savvy workshops, and my vision for my 202Residency is expanding the curriculum to provide advanced classes, continuing education, and even international exchanges. As a videographer, I have worked with several nonprofit agencies and independent artists, helping them to promote their work in the digital realm that is so powerful today. I look forward to collaborating with fellow Residents in exchanges of ideas, services, support and encouragement.

I’m privileged to have received support from the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities as well as to found AniPalooza, an annual produced animation showcase.