Cornish College of the Arts is home to a vibrant community of artists who infuse passion and purpose into their creative journeys. Among these students is Isaiah Dziko, a senior Film student whose unique path into filmmaking began with childhood curiosity and has since evolved into a powerful, reflective practice. Isaiah’s story is a testament to the transformative power of art education and the unyielding spirit of storytelling.

The First Spark of Filmmaking

Isaiah’s initial dive into filmmaking began at the age of 12 when he discovered iMovie. “I was making a fake horror movie trailer for my brother with my sister. It was so accessible and fun, and I was able to create stories,” Isaiah recalls with a smile. The experience ignited a lifelong fascination with storytelling, one that would mature as he stepped into Cornish College. “Now, I actually understand what a C-stand is, why lighting is so important, and how it can convey a story,” he says. At Cornish, Isaiah’s passion has evolved from simple joy into an informed practice that uses professional equipment and cohesive narratives to express his unique voice.

A Journey of Self-Reflection

One of Isaiah’s most personal and revealing projects was a mini-series titled Louise is Almost Famous, an ambitious piece where each episode was based on a song he composed. The themes were deeply personal, exploring aspects of identity—including gender and race. “Writing about how I identify in so many different ways allowed me to reflect on my past and discover new things about myself,” he shares. This project highlighted Isaiah’s dedication to using film not just as a medium of entertainment but as a mirror to examine life’s complexities and truths.

The Power of Constructive Critique

For Isaiah, Cornish has offered a space rich with critique and collaboration, both from peers and faculty. He fondly remembers a pivotal piece of feedback from Cornish alum and fine art major Giselle Hadid: “She said that the reaction to my art is more important than just making a piece. Even a negative reaction is better than none at all.” This insight shifted Isaiah’s approach to storytelling. Now, every project he undertakes is crafted with an intention to evoke emotion and spark discussion, making his films resonate beyond the screen.

Interdisciplinary Collaborations

Isaiah’s growth at Cornish has also been shaped by working with students from other disciplines. Collaborations with theater majors, for instance, taught him to appreciate the depth and nuance actors bring to film. “They came prepared, with questions and suggestions that enhanced their characters’ depth,” he explains. This level of collaboration allowed Isaiah to see beyond technical aspects like lights and sound, enriching his storytelling with character-driven narratives and a collaborative spirit.

Seattle’s Influence on Art

Seattle’s vibrant culture has left a significant imprint on Isaiah’s work. He recalls one memorable project, a documentary called Put On a Show, where he filmed spontaneous performances by passersby at the University of Washington. “It was amazing to capture Seattle’s culture through its people rather than iconic landmarks,” he says. This project showcased Isaiah’s love for portraying raw, unfiltered human experiences, embodying the lively spirit of the city.

Balancing Art and Audience Expectations

Navigating the balance between artistic freedom and audience expectations is a skill Isaiah has honed over time. “Audiences are smarter than people think,” he asserts. He believes that as long as the rules of an experimental film are clear, viewers will find their own interpretations. For Isaiah, the key is to put creativity first, making art that is true to himself while still inviting audiences to engage in their own way.

Influences and Inspirations

Isaiah’s work draws significant influence from the multifaceted artist Tyler, The Creator. “He’s inspired me ever since high school,” Isaiah notes, pointing to Tyler’s Afro-surrealism and celebration of black identity as pivotal to his own voice. Tyler’s ability to create art that’s both meaningful and aesthetically captivating has motivated Isaiah to ensure that his own stories are as compelling and inclusive.

Film as a Medium for Social Change

Film, to Isaiah, is a powerful agent for social and political dialogue. In today’s world where media can be recorded and shared in an instant, he acknowledges both the beauty and the responsibility that come with storytelling. “I think about whether what I’m creating will make a difference,” he says. For Isaiah, each piece he crafts is a chance to contribute thoughtfully to ongoing conversations, emphasizing positive change and representation.

Preparing for Life Beyond Cornish

With graduation on the horizon, Isaiah feels well-equipped for the challenges ahead. Cornish has provided him not just technical expertise but also business acumen through classes that include budgeting, scriptwriting, and understanding creative briefs. “I know these skills will come up again, whether I’m working on set or in a more stable, business environment,” he explains. Isaiah’s goal is to secure a salaried position in the Seattle area, allowing him to continue working on personal projects while contributing his technical skills to the local creative industry.

Advice to Aspiring Filmmakers

If Isaiah could give one piece of advice to his younger self or new students, it would be: “Make the worst films of your life.” He believes that perfectionism holds too many people back from starting. “You’ll learn how to get equipment and write better stories later, but if you don’t start now, you never will,” he urges.

Looking Ahead

As Isaiah anticipates life after Cornish, he is excited about the opportunities to blend technical skill with personal creativity. “Cornish has given me both the technical and the people skills,” he says. Though leaving behind his student life feels bittersweet, Isaiah plans to remain connected to the Cornish community, lending his skills and support to upcoming artists.

Isaiah Dziko’s journey is an inspiring reminder that the art of filmmaking is as much about the stories we tell as the growth we experience in telling them. His time at Cornish has prepared him not just to navigate the industry, but to enrich it with work that is reflective, resonant, and revolutionary.

Interested in exploring your passion for film? Discover how Cornish College of the Arts can shape your journey as a filmmaker. Visit our Film Department to learn more and see if Cornish is the right fit for you today.