Film Independent, a leading arts organization, has named Juan Devis as its new President. Devis, a seasoned media executive, will assume the role on April 20. His extensive background in independent production and institutional leadership, including his tenure as Chief Creative Officer at the Public Media Group of Southern California, positions him to significantly advance Film Independent's mission of fostering creative independence in visual storytelling. Devis aims to build a robust, globally connected, multi-platform ecosystem that supports and celebrates independent film and media worldwide, while honoring the legacy of his predecessor, Josh Welsh.
Devis's appointment comes at a crucial time for the organization, following the passing of former president Josh Welsh. Film Independent has established the Josh Welsh Legacy Fund, raising substantial funds to support artist programs in Welsh's honor. Devis is committed to upholding Welsh's vision while introducing his own strategic direction, focusing on creating access, building ecosystems, and championing diverse voices within the independent film community. His leadership is expected to strengthen the organization's role as a preeminent cultural institution in Los Angeles, advocating for and celebrating the vital contributions of filmmaking to the city's cultural and economic landscape.
New Leadership at Film Independent
Film Independent, a prominent arts organization dedicated to fostering creative independence in visual storytelling, has officially announced Juan Devis as its new President. This strategic appointment, effective April 20, marks a new chapter for the institution. Devis brings a wealth of experience from his distinguished career as a media executive and creative strategist. His past roles include serving as Chief Creative Officer at the Public Media Group of Southern California (PBS SoCal | KCET), where he led a creative team responsible for numerous award-winning programs, securing over 30 Emmys, as well as James Beard, Edward R. Murray, and National Arts and Entertainment Journalist Awards. Additionally, Devis co-founded Ninety-Three Media, an independent production company specializing in film, documentaries, and emerging media, with a focus on cross-cultural narratives.
Brenda Robinson, acting president, lauded Devis for his unique blend of institutional leadership and independent production expertise. She highlighted his proven track record in expanding audience reach for independent stories and elevating diverse voices, deeming him the ideal candidate to guide Film Independent forward. Devis's vision for the organization centers on creating an inclusive and sustainable independent film community. He believes in the critical role of independent storytelling not only for artists but also for the broader culture. His leadership will emphasize building a resilient, globally connected, and multi-platform ecosystem that effectively sustains and celebrates independent film and media on a global scale.
Upholding Legacy and Forging Future Paths
Juan Devis's appointment follows the unfortunate passing of former president Josh Welsh in 2024, after a five-year battle with colon cancer. In tribute to Welsh's enduring contributions, Film Independent established the Josh Welsh Legacy Fund, which has successfully raised a significant sum of $1 million. This fund is dedicated to supporting urgent year-round artist programs, ensuring that Welsh's dedication to fostering artistic talent continues to thrive. Devis has expressed his commitment to honoring Welsh's legacy, while simultaneously steering the organization towards its future goals and evolving its mission to champion creative independence in the realm of visual storytelling.
Devis articulated his lifelong dedication to creating access, building supportive ecosystems, and advocating for diverse voices within the film industry. He firmly believes that a healthy, inclusive, and sustainable independent film community is not merely beneficial for artists, but absolutely essential for the enrichment of our culture. He looks forward to contributing to Film Independent's future development as a robust, globally connected, and multi-platform entity that actively sustains and celebrates independent film and media worldwide. Devis emphasized Film Independent's unique value as an institution that provides a continuous, integrated pathway for independent film and media, offering end-to-end stewardship from discovery and funding to production, distribution, and celebration. He views Film Independent as a preeminent cultural institution in Los Angeles, dedicated to advocating for, granting access to, and celebrating the vital role of filmmaking in the city's cultural and economic well-being. Devis, an alumnus of Emerson College with a film degree and CalArts with an MFA in directing, resides in Los Angeles with his partner, filmmaker Laura Purdy, and their two childre
