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International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA) has selected Isabel Arrate Fernandez to be its new artistic director. She takes the reins from Orwa Nyrabia, who will step down on July 1 after seven years as festival chief. Arrate Fernandez will work alongside managing director Cees van ‘t Hullenaar.
In her new role, Arrate Fernandez will bear the final responsibility for the creative direction and policy of the organization, as well as the organization of the festival program, including the industry, talent and education programs, and the program of the newly opened Het Documentaire Paviljoen in Vondelpark.
With more than two decades of experience as executive director of the IDFA Bertha Fund and head of IDFA’s filmmaker support department, Arrate Fernandez has “a keen eye for talent, an impressive international network, and is driven by a deeply inclusive mindset,” according to a statement.
Under her leadership, the fund has become one of the leading platforms for documentary filmmakers from Africa, Asia, Latin America, Caribbean, Eastern Europe and Oceania. “Her commitment to independent filmmakers and other perspectives has had a lasting impact on the documentary landscape,” the statement added.
Marry de Gaay Fortman, chairman of the supervisory board, said: “After several rounds of interviews with a large number of candidates, Isabel emerged as the best candidate. Her vision, her way of thinking and her ideas convinced both the supervisory board and the advisory and selection committees that she is the right candidate for this position. We are confident that Isabel will take IDFA one step further, especially in the artistic field, both nationally and internationally.”
Arrate Fernandez responded: “I am honored and excited to take on this role. Documentary film and art has always touched me deeply – especially for its power of imagination and its capacity for reflection and wonder. The creative ability and commitment of filmmakers to bring to life compelling stories that offer a deeper understanding of the world is an enduring inspiration. IDFA is the place where it all comes together: a space for both artistic freedom and social engagement. And now more than ever, documentary is a powerful tool to open new perspectives, build bridges and stimulate critical thinking. I look forward to working with the team to continue IDFA’s rich tradition and shape its next step.”
