Clint Bohaty

In a couple sentences, describe what you do for work and how you feel about it.

I work as a freelance film director and producer in the Twin Cities. I love the diversity of work, clients, and experiences that my career has granted me. Beyond being an active filmmaker, I work as a published boardgame designer.

How did you get your job?

My career has developed through continual networking, diligence, and a respect for my work. I'm always using my skills as an artist and storyteller to create the best deliverable or experience possible—not only for my clients but also for myself. That level of care combined with a willingness to learn better techniques have allowed me to evolve my business into a full-time position. Being able to clearly communicate my opinions and thoughts with clients helps them understand my work and helps me stand out as a partner.

What was your major and how did you choose it? Was it the right choice?

I chose filmmaking as my major because I enjoy both crafting a story and working closely with a team. The challenge of learning so many different on-set roles (cinematography, directing, lighting, editing, etc.) was one that kept me satisfied throughout my courses. Being a film major is a choice I'll never regret.

Who was your favorite teacher and why?

The professor that had the most impact on me was Tom DeBiaso. He constantly pushed me and my peers to be the best storytellers we could be. Tom knew how to challenge each individual student and wasn't afraid to call out an unacceptable presentation. His high level of expectation built in me the discipline required to work as a full-time freelancer. All of the skills I learned in Intro to Filmmaking I use every day.

Having Tom DeBiaso as my film mentor is the main reason I'll never regret my choice as a filmmaking major.

Tell us about your internship.

I signed up for two full internships while I was at MCAD. The first was at the local FOX 9 News station. For several months I worked as an assistant editor, ingesting tapes and creating motion graphics. I learned that working in a news station environment wasn't for me, but I was glad for the experience.

The second internship I had was with a film production company called Werc Werk Works. There, I worked as the lead editor on an hour-long behind-the-scenes documentary for the feature film Howl. It was a great hands-on learning experience and gave me an insider's view of a production company.

Best thing you ever got/saw on the free shelf?

A stop light.

Name your one biggest takeaway from MCAD?

"Sometimes you have to kill your babies." As an artist, you have to have the strength to oftentimes let go of a cherished concept or material that is hurting the greater experience of your work. In film, it might mean editing out the most costly and impressive shot from a scene because it detracts from the story. In drawing, it might mean erasing a masterfully interpreted element to the great benefit of the overall composition.

I've learned to find excitement in overcoming these often difficult decisions, knowing that they represent a new level of understanding about my own work.

What inspires you/your work?

I often find inspiration from the art around me, whether it be a book, a movie, or a gallery. I always carry a notebook and voice recorder to document my ideas since I never quite know when or where they'll show.

What advice do you have for current MCAD students?

Keep your in-progress passion projects a secret from everyone you can, including close family and friends. I've found that by doing so, I build enough motivation and energy to complete them. The joy of telling someone about an in-progress project is often the same as showing them the finished version. Sharing an idea too early can lead to its stagnation!

Every time someone asks me what I'm working on, I say "I can't tell you, but I'll show you when it's done!"—which gives me another reason to actually finish it.

How do you network yourself and your art?

My networking involves reaching out to companies or individuals whose work I find fascinating. Sometimes that's through email, other times through social. My goal is to meet them and understand the work that they do, sharing with them my own projects that I'm proud of.

For the last few years, I've had prospective clients reach out to me directly, because I'd been recommended by their colleague or friend—someone that I'd worked with in the past who was satisfied and happy to pass my name along!

Do the Twin Cities offer many opportunities for creatives?

Yes. From the art galleries to the advertising agencies to the headquarters of international companies, the Twin Cities have many opportunities for work in a creative field, as long as you have the strength to survive winter.

Current obsession?

My passion project, which I can't share with you yet!

In your own words, what is a self-portrait?

A self-portrait is a visual diary. It is a reflection and reminder of the milestones in one's life, and the emotions around those milestones. The nature of a self-portrait is always honest, even when the resulting depiction is less than truthful.