The new board of directors of the Valencian Audiovisual Academy took office last Monday, following the ratification of a single candidacy. This new stage, led by a recognized figure in the sector, seeks to provide continuity to the work carried out in recent years, despite institutional fluctuations that have affected the entity's operations.
“"This was not going to be a 180-degree turn for the Academy. It is born mainly from a desire to continue the project, so that it does not die or fall. It also has to do with how the previous board started, in a third call for elections."
The candidacy emerges with the aim of preventing past situations from recurring and consolidating the achievements of the last four years. The new leadership has emphasized the importance of renewal, opening the door to young professionals and incorporating veteran profiles who are well-versed in the Valencian audiovisual context. Furthermore, efforts have been made to broaden professional representation within the board, including areas such as musical composition.
The main objective is to consolidate the project, strengthen the Academy's role as a representative space for the sector, and expand its activities. The new board aims to go beyond organizing the Lola Gaos Awards, seeking to increase the visibility of Valencian audiovisual content in universities and festivals, and creating synergies with other academies and artistic events. Emphasis has also been placed on sustainability and the creation of an office to support against workplace harassment.
Currently, the Academy has over 400 members, a figure that doubles that of previous years, demonstrating the sector's support. Activities are being initiated with the backing of institutions with which there was no dialogue before, such as the Ministry of Culture. Despite the lack of institutional support at times, the entity asserts its independence and its commitment to moving forward.
Regarding the definition of "Valencian film," the new leadership points out the complexity of the issue in a context of mixed funding and international co-productions. A balance is sought between the reality of production and the need to value Valencian professionals, adjusting award criteria according to the sector's evolution.
The Academy also aims to be a spokesperson for underrepresented sectors, understanding that audiovisual work is a collective effort that includes all professional profiles. The goal is to open the entity to more professionals and bring their issues to a common space, with the incorporation of technicians on the board. The Valencian sector is doing its part, but the support of Valencian institutions is considered fundamental to overcome obstacles and boost the industry's growth.
