“Success stories like Vassar’s indicate an indie tide that is definitely turning.
”
Vanessa is an award-winning writer, director and producer of documentary films. Her work acts as a sociological exploration of often-overlooked populations. Vanessa’s documentaries have been featured on the Sundance Channel and the Documentary Channel.
American Waitress, New Mexico (2002)
A documentary feature film that examines the lives, attitudes, perceptions and experiences of waitresses.
Backseat Productions
Cinderellas of Santa Fe (2006)
Featuring Jenny Gabrielle
A documentary film that follows people who find it necessary to work jobs to support their careers.
Mountainair Films & Frontseat
Productions
Darren Vigil Gray: Counterclockwise (2003)
Also featuring Jill Scott Momaday
A documentary short on the art and life of Native American artist Darren Vigil Gray, in collaboration with the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian.
Plaza Productions
music videos
Vanessa wrote and directed image campaigns while working at MTV and went on to direct many music videos, primarily for Polygram Entertainment and Warner Bros. Records. She has also taught music video and documentary filmmaking workshops for children and adults.
Watch Hugo Race & The True Spirit - Icy Roads (official music video)