POWERING THE ECONOMY THROUGH ARTS IN KENTUCKY
ART.
EDUCATION.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT.
ECONOMIC IMPACT.
PEAK is not just a non-profit; it’s a movement dedicated to unleashing the full potential of art in Appalachia. By fostering creativity, providing education, promoting workforce development, and driving economic impact, PEAK aspires to create a sustainable and empowered community where art is not just a passion but a means of livelihood and societal transformation. Together, we’re building a future where art is a force for positive change in every pocket and every heart.
At the forefront of PEAK’s outreach are our three core initiatives, each designed to foster creativity, provide education, and empower individuals to take tangible steps in their artistic journeys – the Student Film Club, Industry Workshops, and the Artist Spotlight series.
STUDENT FILM CLUB
The Student Film Club is a free program open to students across the community and regionally, offering a transformative space for young, aspiring filmmakers to explore their passion for storytelling. Available both in-person and virtually, the club is designed to be accessible to individuals of all experience levels, ensuring that every participant—whether a novice or budding professional—has the opportunity to thrive.
As a creative and educational hub, the Student Film Club provides hands-on projects, peer collaboration, and mentorship opportunities, immersing students in every aspect of filmmaking. From scripting and directing to editing and producing, participants gain practical experience that brings their creative visions to life. The program goes beyond fostering artistic passion; it grants students access to industry-grade equipment and teaches them the techniques needed to build a professional skill set.
By nurturing a sense of belonging and encouraging creative exploration, the Student Film Club helps young filmmakers develop confidence, refine their craft, and prepare for future opportunities. This initiative not only empowers students to express themselves through film but also provides them with the tools to turn their passion into a viable career path.
INDUSTRY WORKSHOPS
The Industry Workshops are immersive professional development opportunities designed to expand knowledge and equip individuals with targeted skill sets to launch their careers in film and media production. Open to everyone, these paid workshops offer unique insights into the industry, with discounts available for students and coal miners to ensure accessibility for those eager to learn and grow.
At the heart of the program is the opportunity to learn directly from seasoned industry professionals. From actors and cinematographers to production designers and screenwriters, experts from every film discipline will share their specialized knowledge through talks, hands-on workshops, and demonstrations of their craft. Participants gain exposure to the insider tricks of the trade, practical techniques, and firsthand insights that can’t be found in textbooks. Beyond skill-building, these sessions foster invaluable networking opportunities, allowing attendees to form connections and build relationships—a crucial step in turning a passion for film into a thriving career.
A standout feature of the Industry Workshops is the G&E (Grip and Electric) Sprints, intensive multi-day courses designed to provide hands-on training in grip and electric work. These sessions focus on developing foundational skills that make attendees employable right away, helping to cultivate a skilled local workforce ready to support film and media productions.
Whether participants are seeking to deepen their craft, learn new disciplines, or take their first steps into the film industry, the Industry Workshops provide an empowering platform to build skills, connect with professionals, and unlock opportunities in the world of filmmaking.
ARTIST SPOTLIGHTS
The Artist Spotlights are a cornerstone initiative dedicated to fostering the arts and celebrating the creativity that enriches our communities. Each year, we accept submissions from talented individuals and select up to four Kentucky artists—representing a diverse range of disciplines such as painting, poetry, music, and more—to feature in this inspiring program.
Every quarter, we host an art show dedicated to one of the spotlighted artists, providing a platform for them to showcase their work to the public. These events are more than just exhibitions; they are celebrations of artistic vision and passion, with proceeds from each show going directly to the artist.
To further amplify their story and work, Black Mountain will produce a professionally crafted mini-documentary for each featured artist. These films delve into the artist’s personal journey, exploring their inspiration, creative process, and the unique narrative that shapes their art. The documentary premieres during the art show, giving attendees a deeper connection to the work and the artist behind it. Additionally, the film is promoted online to broaden its reach, drawing more eyes to the artist’s creations and expanding their audience.
The Artist Spotlight is more than a recognition of talent—it’s a catalyst for artistic growth, an avenue for storytelling, and a bridge connecting artists with the community and beyond.