Isabel Arrate Fernandez appointed Artistic Director of IDFA
IDFA is pleased to announce the appointment of Isabel Arrate Fernandez as its new Artistic Director. In her new role, Arrate Fernandez will bear the final responsibility for the creative direction and policy of the organization, as well as the organization of the festival program, including the industry, talent and education programs, and the program of the newly opened Het Documentaire Paviljoen in Vondelpark.
With more than two decades of experience as Executive Director of the IDFA Bertha Fund and head of IDFA's filmmaker support department, Isabel Arrate Fernandez has a keen eye for talent, an impressive international network, and is driven by a deeply inclusive mindset. Under her leadership, the Fund has become one of the leading platforms for documentary filmmakers from Africa, Asia, Latin America, Caribbean, Eastern Europe and Oceania. Her commitment to independent filmmakers and other perspectives has had a lasting impact on the documentary landscape.
"After several rounds of interviews with a large number of candidates, Isabel emerged as the best candidate. Her vision, her way of thinking and her ideas convinced both the Supervisory Board and the Advisory and Selection Committees unanimously that she is the right candidate for this position. We are confident that Isabel will take IDFA one step further, especially in the artistic field, both nationally and internationally," said Marry de Gaay Fortman, Chairman of the Supervisory Board.
Isabel Arrate Fernandez; "I am honored and excited to take on this role. Documentary film and art has always touched me deeply - especially for its power of imagination and its capacity for reflection and wonder. The creative ability and commitment of filmmakers to bring to life compelling stories that offer a deeper understanding of the world is an enduring inspiration. IDFA is the place where it all comes together: a space for both artistic freedom and social engagement. And now more than ever, documentary is a powerful tool to open new perspectives, build bridges and stimulate critical thinking. I look forward to working with the team to continue IDFA's rich tradition and shape its next step.”
The appointment of Isabel Arrate Fernandez follows the departure of Orwa Nyrabia, who will step down on July 1 after seven successful years as Artistic Director of IDFA. Arrate Fernandez will form a collegial board with Managing Director Cees van 't Hullenaar.
A handover will take place in the coming months so that preparations for the 38th edition of the festival can continue unabated.
